Why These 16 Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Have Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common behavior concern in dogs and refers to distress some dogs may experience when they’re left alone. It can show up as excessive barking, destructive chewing, pacing, or other signs of stress. While every dog is different, these behaviors often mean a dog is struggling with alone time and may benefit from patience, routine, and gradual independence-building.

Any dog can develop separation anxiety, but some anxious dog breeds may be more likely to struggle with being alone due to inherited temperament traits, original breeding roles, and natural instincts. Knowing which anxious dog breeds are more prone to separation-related distress can help you spot early signs of discomfort and respond with supportive routines before the behavior escalates.

What is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Dogs develop separation anxiety because they need their owners for comfort so intensely that they experience extreme fear when their owners leave them alone. Their state of discomfort and tension emerges right after you depart from their presence because they cannot experience serenity during your absence.

It’s often more than boredom—being alone can feel genuinely overwhelming for some dogs. Dogs that have separation anxiety typically show these behaviors primarily when they’re separated from their family or primary caregiver.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

Dogs that have separation anxiety will show signs right after the owner departs, and these indications can vary from minor discomfort to destructive behavior. The intervention process requires researchers to identify every possible warning indicator which exists.

•  Excessive Vocalization: Some dogs bark, howl, or whine continuously after their owner leaves, and the vocalizing may continue until the owner returns.
•  Destructive Behavior: A dog may show destructive behavior by chewing furniture, digging at carpets, or damaging doors and window frames while trying to escape and reunite with its owner.
•  House Soiling: Urinating or defecating inside the house, even if the dog is reliably house-trained. The body triggers this response as a natural panic reaction which does not involve any purposeful attempt to cause damage.
• Pacing and Panting: During panic attacks they experience physical signs which include walking in a pattern and drooling excessively while panting.
• Escape Attempts: Your dog may attempt to escape from being confined to a crate or a room or the entire house. This can cause minor injuries, like sore paws or broken nails, while they scratch or push at doors and gates.

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is often triggered by key life events, compounded by genetic temperament:

•  Change of Routine: A sudden change in the family schedule, such as an owner returning to work after an extended time at home, can be unsettling for a pet.
• Loss of a Family Member: A family member's death or permanent departure from home creates insecurity in dogs because they feel abandoned when they are left alone.
• Rehoming or Adoption: Dogs that come from shelters, especially adults, sometimes carry old fears with them. Dogs who have experienced being abandoned before might feel anxious when they find themselves alone in their new residence.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some dog breeds are naturally inclined to form strong bonds with their people and stay highly attentive to what is happening around them. Because of that, they may prefer to stay close and follow daily routines, which can make alone time more challenging even in a loving, familiar home.

Top 16 Dog Breeds with Separation Anxiety

Some dog breeds with separation anxiety may have a harder time being alone. This does not mean every dog will react the same way when you step out. It simply means the most anxious dog breeds are often more people-focused, more sensitive to change, or historically bred for close partnership and constant cues.

1. Labrador Retriever: Friendly and people-first. Low exercise can lead to barking or chewing.

2. Border Collie: Always “on.” Without mental work, pacing and chewing can start.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: A true lap dog. They can get stressed when left alone.

4. Jack Russell Terrier: High energy and easily bored. Digging, barking, and escape attempts are common.

5. German Shepherd: Loyal and protective. Some panic when their main person leaves.

6. Australian Shepherd: Working breed with big needs. Understimulation can turn into destruction.

7. Bichon Frise: Loves constant company. May cry or have accidents indoors.

8. Vizsla: Known as a “Velcro dog.” Needs early independence training and daily exercise.

9. German Shorthaired Pointer: Built for action. Restlessness can show up as chewing or barking.

10. Toy Poodle: Sensitive and attached. May whine, pace, or cling before you go.

11. Cocker Spaniel: Affectionate and routine based. A long time alone may trigger barking or chewing.

12. Lagotto Romagnolo: Smart and family focused. Boredom can turn into anxiety fast.

13. Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie): Alert and sensitive. Needs alone time training early.

14. Miniature Schnauzer: People-oriented watchdog. Alone time may cause barking and pacing.

15. Greyhound: Often new to being alone. Needs a slow transition and steady routine.

16. Chihuahua: Bonds strongly with one person. May tremble, bark, or have accidents when separated.

Breed Characteristics vs. Anxiety Risk

A lot of dog breeds prone to anxiety share a few predictable traits. These traits are not “bad.” They simply require a plan.

Why Do Some Dogs Experience High Levels of Anxiety?

Dogs may show strong signs of distress during alone time when they have not learned, gradually and consistently, that being alone is safe. For dog breeds with separation anxiety, separation can feel especially difficult because dogs are social by nature and often rely on routines and companionship.

When a dog is highly attached, their entire sense of security is tied to the physical presence of their owner. The resulting panic is a physiological response, not a behavioral choice. In more sensitive breeds, separation related distress can feel more intense for two common reasons: they did not get enough early practice being alone, or they have had past negative experiences with separation.

How to Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Dealing with separation anxiety needs a method which combines patience with systematic desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques.

1. Create a Safe, "Boring" Space: Designate a dog-proofed area which includes either a crate or a small room that provides your dog with a sense of safety. Only allow access to this space when you are leaving, making it a cue for calm, focused activity.

2. Use High-Value Distractions: Leave your dog with a high-value chew that lasts for a long time or a puzzle toy containing food before you depart. This counter-conditions the negative feelings of your departure with a positive experience. Crucially, take this item away immediately upon your return.

3. Desensitize Departure Cues: Practice your leaving routine (grabbing keys, putting on a coat, walking to the door) without actually leaving. Perform these cues throughout the day until your dog shows no reaction to them, which will help him stop linking the routine to his panic state.

4. Practice Gradual Absences: Start with very short departures, just a few seconds, so your dog stays comfortable and does not have time to become distressed. Then gradually increase the duration over several weeks. If possible, use a camera or video monitor so you can confirm your dog remains settled while you are away.

5. Use Calming Products: Consider veterinarian-recommended options which include pheromone diffusers, calming vests, or supplements. A veterinary behaviorist will prescribe medication for extreme cases to reduce panic levels, which enables successful implementation of training techniques.

Things to Avoid

You should stop all actions which create new anxiety for your dog when dealing with separation distress.

Avoid Emotional Farewells and Greetings: The process of departing and arriving should remain uneventful. You should maintain a peaceful demeanor while you enter and exit the room because you should reserve your dog's excitement for after it has become calm. Your absence should not be considered a significant occurrence.

Avoid Punishment: Scolding your dog for chewing and barking and accidents that occurred during your absence should be avoided. They were panicking. The combination of fear and confusion from punishment will intensify their anxiety during future situations.

Avoid Making Alone Time a Surprise: You should avoid leaving your dog alone for extended periods without first introducing this practice through gradual steps. Keep training going regularly, even on busy days. The process needs to start with short practice absences which should extend in length until it feels comfortable being alone in a protected space.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog has separation anxiety?

Dogs may show separation related stress through behaviors like barking, chewing, or having accidents indoors when their owner is away. Some dogs may also fixate on exit points, watching doors and windows and lingering near them as if trying to follow.

Can separation anxiety in dogs be fixed?

Yes. Most dogs will show substantial improvement through behavior training which should be combined with progressive separation and a daily schedule that remains consistent. The resolution of certain cases requires expert assistance to achieve both speed and security in their progression.

What causes separation anxiety in certain dog breeds?

The development of separation anxiety occurs through multiple factors which combine to create this condition. The genetic makeup of dogs influences their behavior because certain breeds develop their ability to form strong bonds with humans during their breeding process.

Are there any products that can help calm a dog with separation anxiety?

Yes. A combined approach often works best. Training paired with puzzle toys, calming supplements, pheromone diffusers, and anxiety wraps can help support a calmer, more settled demeanor during alone time.

Is it possible to prevent separation anxiety in puppies?

Yes. Early independence practice helps a lot. Short alone sessions, calm routines, and rewarding relaxation can prevent future issues.

What are some least anxious dog breeds?

Basset Hounds, Chow Chows, and French Bulldogs are breeds which tend to handle time by themselves, so they are considered to be least anxious dog breeds or dog breeds with no separation anxiety.

What are some dog breeds with no separation anxiety?

The Basenji, Shiba Inu, and Bullmastiff make up a list of best dog breeds to be left alone which owners commonly choose for alone time because these breeds have natural independence and need less attention.

Are there any small dog breeds with low separation anxiety?

Small dog breeds with low separation anxiety do exist but independence training remains the essential factor for their development. Small dogs tend to form strong bonds with their owners, so owners should start teaching them to stay alone during peaceful times from the beginning.