How to tell if your dog is a bonded pair?
Andreanne Hahn
2025-06-22 16:04:24
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Two dogs that are known as a bonded pair or pair-bonded are two dogs that either work together in a role such as herding and shepherding, or within a domestic environment, are two dogs that have lived together for most or all of their lives and will not thrive if separated. The background to pair bonding While many dogs are used to living side by side with others or with one particular dog and so may form a bond, two dogs are only considered to be pair bonded if the separation of them would cause extreme anxiety or unhappiness to either one of both dogs. Any two dogs, related or not, may potentially become a bonded pair if they spend significant amounts of time together. If dogs are together from birth to six months old they are likely to bond strongly, but still remain emotionally elastic in terms of being able to separate without any huge upheaval. However, if dogs that have been raised together remain together after one year of age, they are likely to be very closely bonded by that time. Dogs under five years old are more likely to form a strong bond with another similarly aged dog than it is likely for such a strong bond to occur when older.
Johnathon Treutel
2025-06-22 14:22:51
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They Follow You Everywhere, this constant companionship indicates trust and a desire to be near you, showcasing a deep bond. Eager Greetings, after a long day, being welcomed by a wagging tail and enthusiastic energy is a clear sign your dog is thrilled to see you. Such excitement reflects their affection and attachment. They Seeking Physical Affection, whether it's cuddling on the couch or resting their head on your lap, dogs express love through physical touch. Regularly seeking your affection signifies comfort and trust in your presence. Checking In Regularly, even during off-leash play, a bonded dog will frequently look back or return to you, ensuring you're still present. This behavior demonstrates their reliance on you as a source of security. A dog that feels safe with you will exhibit relaxed postures, such as lying on their back exposing their belly—a vulnerable position showing they trust you completely. Bonded dogs often look to their owners for guidance, especially in unfamiliar situations. If your dog seeks your cues before reacting, it signifies their confidence in your leadership.
Tyler Wintheiser
2025-06-22 13:44:13
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They love to play together. Bubba loves to be groomed by bella, she likes to lick his face. They cuddle and bubba doesn’t really like going on walks unless bella comes. I know you’re not supposed to break bonded pairs but bella is old and turning 10 in april so i worry something will happen and i wont be able to be there. My parents are concerned that bubba will ultimately get depressed bc he’s known bella since he was a puppy and she took on a very motherly approach to him.
Trenton Gutmann
2025-06-22 13:42:26
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A bonded pair of dogs are two dogs that act like a single puzzle piece. They go together because of their strong bond. Adopting one but not the other can almost send them into a grieving state and look like your dog is depressed and afraid of everything because they are so used to being with their pair that they don’t know what to do on their own. You might notice that your dog displays significantly less or even no signs of anxiety if there is another dog present. Maybe they seem fine at doggy daycare or it seemed to come out of left field because their foster family had a lot of dogs, and they never would have noticed what it looked like for them to be alone because they simply never were. If the shelter has a brother and sister, consider getting both or attempt to have them make lots of friends if you cannot have more than one. In the end, all of these issues will be fixed by another dog. It’s always something to ask yourself and your dog if they are still struggling with anxiety. They might be missing their pair and are scared to do new things without them, or even guilty that they are and their pair is not.