Why do I have so much anxiety leaving my dog?

Annabelle Kreiger
2025-07-30 02:40:10
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Dogs are social animals, and they need to learn that it is alright to be left at home on their own. Dogs are a naturally social species and it’s normal for them to stay close to their social group which is why they can become anxious when left alone. When a puppy is first separated from their mother and litter mates, their usual response will be to whine, whimper or bark while trying to get back to them. Separation anxiety can develop in dogs for a number of reasons, but the most common is that they have never learned that it is ok to be alone. Some dogs feel anxious when they are left alone and may display unwanted and sometimes destructive behaviours as a result.

Maiya Mraz
2025-07-30 01:44:27
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: 16
This works both ways. Many people have become accustomed to working on an 100% remote basis and have had the company of their furbabies. This can be a particularly challenging time for people who only live with their dogs, as some are required to return to the office on a part-time, or even full-time basis. Overall it is very common and normal for hoomans to also feel just as anxious about leaving their furry friends as it is for the animal's too. Don't be hard on yourself and gradually build up to it. Some dog breeds are more prone to separation anxiety such as: Labrador Retriever, Border Collie, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Jack Russell Terrier, German Shepherd and many more. These dogs are primarily bred to be social dogs, who rely on close contact with their owners. A lot of companion and service dogs may have experienced a heightened sense of separation anxiety during the recent months. This is due to the shift of people being able to go back to their workplaces as the impact of the pandemic lessens. Dogs who have been taken to their new home during the pandemic would’ve known no different to having their owners at home 24/7. So when ‘normality’ starts to emerge, they may be left feeling unsettled and distressed at this change in routine.

Kendrick Kunde
2025-07-30 00:58:38
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I think because we've been together so much during this pandemic that I've gotten so used to being with him around that I just can't bear being without him. I wasn't always like this. We've had my dog for 5 years now and I've always been okay with leaving him at home. I can't go anywhere without him ever and when I have to, I cry as we separate and can't think straight until I get back home.
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