Can a Dog Miss Its Owner?
- Alice
- 25 sep
- 6 minuten om te lezen
Bijgewerkt op: 20 okt
Understanding Separation Anxiety in Dogs (2025 Edition)
Your Dog Misses You More Than You Think
It’s a moment many dog owners know too well. You grab your keys—your dog perks up. You put on your jacket—and their tail droops. As soon as the door closes, the waiting begins. For us, it’s the start of a normal workday. For some dogs, it feels like their world is falling apart.
Separation anxiety in dogs isn’t just a buzzword or trendy diagnosis. It’s a real emotional response to being left alone. In this post, we’ll dive into what it is, why some dogs are more sensitive to it, and—most importantly—how you can help your dog feel safe and secure when you’re not home.
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Table of Contents
When Being Alone Turns Into Stress
Dogs are pack animals by nature. They live together, sleep together, and rely on others for safety. So when their favorite human suddenly disappears, it can feel unsettling or even dangerous.
A calm dog might curl up in their bed and snooze the day away. But a dog with separation anxiety in dogs? They can go into full-blown panic mode.
We’re not just talking about a little barking. Some dogs cry, scratch the door, destroy pillows, or have accidents—even if they’re house-trained. It’s their way of saying: “I’m confused. I don’t feel safe. Where are you?”
Take Max, a young Golden Retriever. He was calm as long as his owner was nearby, but the minute the door closed, he began howling, clawing at the door, and tearing up toys. It took weeks of structured training and a lot of patience before he could be alone without falling apart.
Yes—Dogs Can Truly Miss You
There’s science to back this up. Biologist Claudia Vinke from Utrecht University found that dogs show signs of stress when separated from their owners. In MRI scans, dogs had brain activity in the pleasure centers when they smelled their owner’s scent—just like a child finding comfort in something familiar.
And it shows in behavior. Some dogs go over the top with excitement when you return. Others stay quiet and spend hours lying by the door or ignoring their food. It’s not “acting out”—it’s sadness, confusion, and emotional distress.
Not All Dogs React the Same Way
Some dogs scream their frustration out loud. Others withdraw. And then there are those who show their stress physically: trembling, drooling, panting excessively.
A dog with separation anxiety in dogs might also show subtle signs:
Refusing food when you’re not home
Following you everywhere in the house
Waiting by the window for hours
Restless sleep or pacing at night
Maybe you’ve seen these behaviors and thought, “They’ll get used to it.” But in many cases, they don’t adjust on their own. In fact, without support, it can get worse.
Why Some Dogs Struggle More Than Others
Not every dog has the same tolerance for being alone. So why is that?
Rescue dogs often have a history of loss or trauma
“Velcro dogs” (like Border Collies or Labradoodles) bond deeply with one person
Puppies and senior dogs are especially sensitive to change
Dogs without enough mental stimulation get bored—and stressed—faster
Some breeds are more prone to separation anxiety in dogs, especially those that are working breeds, companion breeds, or highly social by nature. Even a single traumatic experience, such as being left alone during a thunderstorm, can trigger long-term anxiety if not addressed.
What Science Tells Us
Dogs are intelligent creatures with complex emotions. Studies using MRI scans show they react emotionally when they smell or see their owner. They also pick up on daily routines—grabbing your bag or putting on your shoes can be enough to trigger anxiety.
This is why structure and predictability are so crucial. When your dog knows what to expect, they feel safer. Consistency is key in helping them build trust in your comings and goings.
In fact, many behaviorists argue that separation anxiety in dogs has parallels to attachment disorders in children. Dogs thrive on consistency, connection, and positive reinforcement.
What You Can Do at Home
You don’t need to be a dog trainer to help your pup. A lot of progress can be made at home with calm, consistent steps.
Start small
Leave the room for a few minutes. Then step outside. Then take a short walk. Build up slowly so your dog gains confidence.
Keep it chill
Don’t make a big emotional goodbye or excited hello. Calm departures and arrivals help reduce anxiety.
Provide distractions
A frozen KONG, lick mat, or snuffle mat can give your dog something enjoyable to focus on while you're away.
Create a comfort zone
Set up a cozy space with a soft bed, familiar toys, and maybe a shirt that smells like you. Some dogs love a crate—others don’t. Find what works for your pup.
Reinforce calm behavior
When your dog remains relaxed while you're away or during practice sessions, reward them with praise, treats, or a calm pat. Reinforcing this relaxed state builds their confidence.
Products That Truly Help
Thundershirt – applies gentle pressure to calm the nervous system
Adaptil diffuser – releases dog-calming pheromones
Furbo camera – lets you check in and toss treats
KONG or snuffle mat – fun, calming enrichment
Lick mats – promote licking as a self-soothing behavior
Note: Always consult your vet before using supplements or medications.
Can Dogs Grieve Too?
Absolutely. Dogs can mourn the loss of a companion—whether human or animal. The signs? Sleeping more, eating less, becoming withdrawn, or just “off.”
Give your dog time and structure. Most dogs adjust with love and patience. But if the symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It could be unresolved separation anxiety in dogs, especially if the loss triggered new fears.
How Long Do Dogs Miss Their Owners?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some dogs panic within minutes. Others can comfortably stay alone for half a workday.
A well-trained adult dog can usually manage 4–6 hours alone—but only if that confidence has been gradually built up. Puppies, on the other hand, may only tolerate 1–2 hours without showing signs of separation anxiety in dogs.
Step-by-Step: Help Your Dog Overcome It
Start with short absences and reward calm behavior
Encourage independence even when you’re home
Avoid big emotional exits or entrances
Reinforce basic commands like “stay” and “place”
Increase time away gradually over several weeks
Track your dog’s responses and adjust as needed
Call in a professional if it’s not improving
5 Big Takeaways
Separation anxiety in dogs is real—and deeply uncomfortable for your pet
Dogs form strong emotional bonds, and science confirms it
With training, routine, and patience, you can make huge progress
Mental stimulation is just as important as exercise
Don’t wait too long—early action makes recovery easier
FAQ
Should I get a second dog to help?
Not necessarily. It might help, but it can also double the stress.
Is crating a good idea?
It depends. Some dogs love crates; others panic. Test it gently.
Should I punish my dog for chewing or barking?
No. Punishment increases anxiety. Understanding and structure help.
What if nothing seems to work?
You might need a dog behaviorist or vet to create a tailored plan.
How do I know if it’s stress or just boredom?
Stress usually includes physical signs (trembling, drooling), while boredom leads to destructive play.
Final Thoughts
Separation anxiety in dogs is more common than most people realize. It’s not a sign of a spoiled dog—it’s a sign that your dog feels unsafe when left alone. And you can change that.
With structure, love, and consistency, your dog can learn that being alone isn’t scary. Start small, stay patient, and always remember—they’re not trying to be difficult. They just really miss you.
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