Is Your Dog Feeling Lonely? 8 Signs That Reflect Your Dog’s Loneliness
If you’re a dog owner, you know how much your pet means to you. They are human’s closest friends and companions. They make you feel loved even when you feel lonely. It is a renowned reality that pets possess the special power to pick you up and make you laugh when you are down. Therefore it is estimated that approximately 70% of households in the US have one pet in the family.
However, sometimes dogs can experience loneliness too. Dogs are social animals that need interaction with other dogs to be happy. If they aren’t getting enough attention from others or is spending more time alone than usual, it might be a sign that he’s feeling lonely. The article highlights a few signs that reflect your dog’s loneliness:
Destructive Behavior
If your dog is destructive, it could signify that he or she is lonely.
Dogs are pack animals and need companionship. Therefore, if your dog does not have a companion, he or she may develop destructive behavior such as chewing, digging, etc. Destructive behavior can also be a symptom of stress, anxiety, or boredom. If you notice any of these signs in your pup after leaving him alone for an extended period, he may feel lonely.
Eating More or Less Than Usual
If your dog is eating more or less than usual, this could signify his feeling lonely. Dogs are sensitive to the emotions of their owners and will often mimic the behaviors they see them doing if they are constantly overeating while at home alone. Your pup will likely start following suit.
The same goes for if he suddenly stops eating altogether. If you have noticed that your dog has stopped eating his food but continues to beg for treats and other snacks, it’s possible that it feels lonely. He might have developed a feeling as though there is no point in consuming nutritious meals when no one is around to care about his well-being.
Pacing
Pacing is one of the signs of anxiety, stress, loneliness, and even depression. It can indicate that your dog is bored or frustrated as well. Dogs are pack animals and want to be with their families. They feel more secure when they are around people they know and trust. If you think your dog might feel lonely or depressed because he/she has been pacing excessively, it may be time for some additional playtime or add a partner.
However, you must visit a veterinarian for consultation if your dog shows signs of depression. A few medications prescribed by a vet can help a dog overcome depression faster. To get the best dog antidepressants and other medications, you can order online from a trusted online store like PetCareRx.
Excessive Barking and Howling
One of the most obvious signs that your dog is feeling lonely is when he or it starts barking and howling more than usual. Most pet owners have experienced this before their dogs start barking at nothing in particular or begin howling for no reason. Although it may seem like an annoying habit, these actions are a way for your dog to communicate with you. Your pets want you to know that they are missing you and would like your attention.
For example, you must have noticed when you return home after a few weeks, your dog starts barking uncontrollably until you settle down and he finishes licking your face out of affection.
Changed Sleeping Habits
To ensure your dog gets the right amount of sleep, keep track of their sleeping habits. Dogs older than 1.5 years usually spend 60-80% of the night sleeping. If you notice that they suddenly miss naps or sleep through the night, it could mean they’re feeling lonely. Dogs need a regular sleep schedule and can’t turn into nocturnal creatures overnight. While some dogs might be able to adapt to an irregular schedule better than others, it’s best not to take any chances regarding your pup’s health and happiness.
Obsessive Licking
If you notice that your dog is licking his fur excessively, it could be due to stress or anxiety. Dogs lick their fur to keep it clean and healthy. When they are stressed or anxious, some dogs will start to lick their fur obsessively. They may also have acral lick dermatitis (ALD), which causes them to compulsively lick their paws, legs, or other parts of their bodies. If your dog has excessive licking behavior and no other symptoms, he probably needs more exercise and attention.
Stopped Playing and Being Active
If your dog is not running around and playing, it will get bored and anxious. When dogs get bored or anxious, it becomes hard for them to relax or sleep well. If your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, he may be feeling lonely. If this is the case with your dog, here are some ways to help him:
- Play fetch with a ball or other toy
- Take him on walks where he can sniff things and explore new places
- Let him run around inside at home
Peeing Inside When They’re Potty Trained
If your dog is peeing inside when they’re Potty trained, it could signify they feel lonely.
If you notice that your pup is relieving itself in the house as you leave for work and immediately becomes quiet and relaxed when you return home. It is a sign of depression or anxiety.
In these situations, it’s crucial to ensure that no medical issues are causing this behavior. It could also be caused by separation anxiety if the dog is left alone too much. Try giving him/her more exercise during the day before leaving them alone in their “lonely” state of mind.
For Dogs, Loneliness Is a Real Issue
Believe it or not, dogs are social animals that need companionship. A dog can get depressed if left alone for long periods without appropriate stimulation or attention. It’s called “socially-induced depression,” and it happens when dogs don’t have enough opportunities to interact with other animals or people. The loneliness causes them to exhibit anxiety-related behaviors like excessive barking, pacing, and destructive behavior like chewing things up in your home.
Many owners don’t realize that their dog has this issue until the damage is done. It can become especially hard if you work full time because your pup will be alone all day while you’re away from home. It means less interaction with humans or other animals. However, loneliness doesn’t have to be an issue for your pup if you’re willing to give him some extra love and attention at times.
Dogs are emotional creatures like humans and can suffer from loneliness just as much. Loneliness can have critical consequences on your dog’s health and well-being. If you think your dog might feel lonely or depressed, it is necessary to address this as soon as possible.
