All the things I wish I knew before I got my first ever puppy!
Research suggests that a massive 8 out of 10 dogs suffer from Separation Anxiety when separated from their owners. Some dogs exhibit no signs of struggling to cope, whereas some dogs will exhibit plenty of tell tale behaviours including destructive behaviour, howling and barking and toileting inside.
If you work long hours or would be leaving your dog unattended for several hours at a time on a regular basis, it’s something you should seriously consider when looking at suitable breeds for you. Some breeds seem to deal with separation better than others. The breeds below are probably the worst dogs to get if you are looking for an independent dog that’s happy to stay at home alone all day!
To learn more about separation anxiety check out the article below on signs of separation anxiety
1. LABRADOR RETRIEVERS
One of the most popular family companion dogs, Labradors are known for their loving and affectionate nature. They were once used as hunting dogs, used to retrieve game for their owners, as such it’s no surprise that they used to being with a companion all the time. If you have a Labrador you will need to be prepared to put the work in helping them to cope with being left alone for a few hours.
2. GERMAN SHEPHERD
Renown as a working dog, serving alongside the police, acting as guard dogs and even working as service dogs, you’d think that German Shepherds would be quite stoic and okay on their own, but it’s actually quite the opposite. It’s probably one of the reasons why they are so good at their jobs- they love been with a partner and will do whatever they need to do to stay with them and protect them!
3. BORDER COLLIE
One of the most energetic and intelligent dogs around, it’s no surprise that Border Collies need a lot of stimulation. Leaving them on their own often leads to severe separation anxiety and destructive behaviour. They are very loyal to their human companions and miss them when they're gone!
4. TERRIER DOG BREEDS- E.G. JACK RUSSELL, WEST HIGHLAND, YORKSHIRE
People often mistake terrier breeds as lap dogs, but they are actually one of the most active and barky breeds of dogs and they thrive on companionship. Certain terriers, i.e. Jack Russell’s are also capable of jumping over 5ft high and are quite the escape artist- not the best quality in a dog that doesn’t like to be alone!
5. BICHON FRIZE
Historically these dogs belonged to royal families and were used to been pampered and constantly given fuss and attention all day. They make great companions for single people and families alike, but they are also EXTREMELY dependent.
6. TOY POODLE
Bred for the sole purpose of being a companion lap dog, it’s no surprise that Toy Poodles do not do well being left alone. Although smart, loyal and playful, they are extremely dependent on their owners.
7. COCKER & SPRINGER SPANIELS
Like Border Collies, Cocker and Springer spaniels need a high level of mental and physical stimulation. They are used to working alongside their owners as hunting dogs, so left at home to their own devices they can become very nervous and anxious, leading to all sorts of behavioural issues.
8. VISZLA
Originally bred to hunt with their human companions, Viszlas need A LOT of activity and company in order to thrive. If you’re looking for a low maintenance dog- a Viszla is not the way to go! Left alone they are very prone to separation anxiety due to lack of stimulation.
9. ITALIAN GREYHOUND
Unlike it’s larger ancestors, Italian Greyhounds (the smallest of the greyhound breed) are not good dogs to leave alone. Dating back to ancient Egypt, this breed was one of the first to bred as a companion dog.
10. CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
Like Cocker and Springer Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a very dependent breed and do not do well on their own for long periods of time. They make excellent companion dogs and work well in apartments- companionship is their main need!
