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All dogs need regular interactions with their favorite people. Playing or cuddling with us decreases their cortisol levels, aka the “stress hormone.” As pack animals, dogs also need play time with other dogs to ease stress, fight boredom, and practice good social skills. So, if your dog doesn’t meet these social needs by interacting with humans and other dogs, do they get lonely?
Yes, dogs experience loneliness when home alone, says Kathryn Dench, DVM, chief scientific advisor at Paw Origins. However, they don’t get lonely the same way we do. Instead, they show us they’re lonely through their body language and unique expressions.
Recognize the signs below if you’re concerned that your dog may be lonely. Then, discover solutions to recharge their social battery.
4 Signs Your Dog’s Lonely
Alex Crow, DVM, founder of Pet Health Guru, says dog loneliness is common and that he sees it often in his practice.
Dr. Crow and Dr. Dench say the following behaviors can indicate your dog needs more interaction or companionship.
- Increased vocalizations. Your dog may bark, howl, or whine more often than usual, especially when alone.
- Getting into mischief. A lonely dog is a bored dog. These pups make their own fun through destructive behaviors like rooting through the garbage or eating your underwear.
- Depression. Your dog may act more subdued, lethargic, or lose interest in their favorite activities and games.
- Following you. Dogs love to play follow-the-leader with you. But a lonely dog may follow you from room to room to soak up all your attention when you’re home.
How To Address Dog Loneliness
If you recognize any of the above signs in your dog, helping them feel better is probably your top priority. But chances are, you also can’t take unlimited vacation days for a doggy playdate or retreat. So, how can you help a lonely dog feel better when you’re away?
Here are some ideas to beat dog loneliness and eliminate boredom.
1. Hire a sitter
“Arranging for a pet sitter or a midday dog walker can significantly break the monotony of a long day alone,” Dr. Dench says.
Your dog can spend a few hours with a new friend and satisfy their exercise needs.
2. Go to doggy daycare
Dr. Dench also recommends doggy daycare for lonely pups. Your dog can play with fellow dogs and relieve boredom and pent-up energy.
Make sure to choose a reputable dog daycare facility with attentive staff, plenty of safety features, and, of course, lots of dogs to play with!
3. Stock up on new enrichment toys
Some dogs may be able to forget their loneliness when they have something fun to do. So, Dr. Crow suggests filling your home with interactive items like puzzle toys, battery toys, and fun toys they can play with alone.
“These toys can be filled with treats or kibble, encouraging your dog to work for their reward,” he says. This can keep them occupied longer and less likely to get into mischief.
4. Set up a pet camera
Interactive pet cameras allow you to check in on your dog during the day. Some options, like the Furbo, can even allow you to interact with your pup by talking to them or dispensing a treat.
“These devices can provide a sense of your presence and comfort your dog,” Dr. Crow says.
5. Play with them more often
You can also alleviate your dog’s loneliness by spending more time together before you leave the house or when you get home.
Try to choose activities stimulating your dog’s brain and body, like learning new tricks or playing hide and seek. Your pup will get to exercise, and you’ll also get to share the love and build your bond.
Should I Get A Second Dog?
You may have wondered if a new sibling could make your dog feel less lonely. But would another dog in the house give your pup someone to play with, or would they only agitate them more? Dr. Dench and Dr. Crow says there’s no one answer.
“Some dogs might thrive with another pet, while for others, it could lead to increased stress or jealousy,” Dr. Dench says. Consider your dog’s overall age, temperament, and dynamics in your house before making up your mind. Also, you should decide if you’re ready for a new dog.
If you bring home a new companion, follow the steps for a proper dog introduction so you can start on the right paw.
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Dog Loneliness FAQs
How long can dogs be left alone?
The amount of time your dog can spend alone depends on factors like their age, activity level, and personality. For example, puppies under five months old generally need potty breaks every three to four hours. Meanwhile, an older dog might comfortably spend six to eight hours alone.
Do certain dog breeds get lonelier than others?
Absolutely! Dr. Dench says a dog’s breed and personality can impact their companionship needs.
“Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Border Collies are highly sociable and require more interaction compared to more independent breeds like the Chow Chow,” she explains.
What are some quick fixes for dog loneliness?
If you’ll be out of the house more often than usual and need to give your dog some quick companionship, consider booking a pet sitter or dog walker to visit during the day or sending your dog to doggy daycare.
You can find nearby pet sitters in your area with Rover.com. Just let us know your dog’s size, your zip code, and the dates you have in mind, and we can connect you with sitters who can do the job!
