By Dr.Jonathan Reed
Dog Breeds with the Worst Separation Anxiety – And What You Can Do About It
If you’ve ever returned home to a shredded pillow or heard howling through the door, you know separation anxiety is real—for some dogs more than others. Certain breeds are simply more prone to becoming overly attached, making alone time a real challenge.
Let’s explore the breeds that often struggle the most, signs to look for, and what you can do to help your dog feel more secure—even when you're not around.
Why Are Some Breeds More Prone to Separation Anxiety?
Just like people, dogs have different temperaments and emotional needs. Breeds that were developed to work closely with humans—like herding, toy, or companion breeds—are especially sensitive to being left alone. They thrive on connection, and when that’s missing, stress kicks in.
10 Dog Breeds Commonly Affected by Separation Anxiety
Here are ten breeds that often experience high levels of separation anxiety:
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Labrador Retriever – Friendly, loyal, and people-loving. Labs may bark, chew, or pace when left alone too long.
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Border Collie – Highly intelligent and active. Without mental stimulation or companionship, anxiety can build up fast.
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German Shepherd – Protective and bonded to their humans. They may become destructive or agitated in isolation.
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Jack Russell Terrier – Energetic and curious, they hate boredom and thrive on company.
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Toy Poodle – Very people-oriented and can feel abandoned if their routine is suddenly changed.
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Bichon Frise – These cheerful fluffballs are known to struggle with alone time and may whine or bark excessively.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Bred to be lap dogs, they form intense attachments and can panic when left alone.
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Vizsla – Nicknamed “Velcro dogs,” they want to be with you 24/7.
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Australian Shepherd – Working dogs that love jobs—and you’re their favorite task.
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Havanese – Gentle and affectionate, they don’t cope well with long absences.
🐾 Note: Not all dogs of these breeds will develop separation anxiety, and mixed breeds can experience it too. Every dog is unique.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Anxious When Alone
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Excessive barking or howling
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Pacing, whining, or trembling
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Accidents in the house
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Chewing furniture or digging at doors
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Trying to escape or follow you when you leave
How to Help Your Dog Cope
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Start With Short Absences: Gradually build up your time away. Don’t make a big fuss when leaving or returning.
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Create a Safe Space: Use a crate or a comfy room with their favorite toys, blankets, and calming sounds.
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Keep Their Mind Busy: Puzzle toys, lick mats, and slow feeders can provide mental enrichment while you’re out.
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Consider a Pet Supplement: Calming supplements, including those with L-theanine or probiotics for gut-brain support, may help some dogs regulate stress. Always consult your vet first.
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Exercise Before You Go: A tired dog is a calmer dog. Try a brisk walk or play session before leaving.
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Talk to a Professional: For severe anxiety, a certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help design a plan that works.
Show Them It's Okay to Be Alone
Separation anxiety doesn’t mean your dog is “bad”—it means they need a little extra support to feel safe when you're away. By understanding your dog’s needs and offering consistent reassurance, you can build their confidence and peace of mind.
Remember, it’s not about eliminating attachment, but strengthening resilience.
References
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American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Separation anxiety in dogs. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org
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American Veterinary Medical Association. (n.d.). Behavioral health resources for pet owners. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org
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University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. (2021). Understanding separation anxiety in dogs. Retrieved from https://vetmed.illinois.edu
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Pet Partners. (n.d.). Helping pets with anxiety. Retrieved from https://petpartners.org
