Introduction: What Happens When Dogs are Left Alone?

Dogs are social creatures that thrive on companionship. But, unfortunately, there are times when we have to leave them alone at home. When dogs are left alone, they may engage in a variety of activities, some of which may be destructive or harmful. It is important for dog owners to understand these activities so that they can take steps to prevent them.

Sleeping: The Most Common Activity

The most common activity that dogs engage in when left alone is sleeping. Dogs sleep for an average of 12 to 14 hours a day, and they may spend most of this time sleeping when they are home alone. This is a natural behavior and should not be a cause for concern. However, if your dog is sleeping excessively, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue.

Barking: A Sign of Separation Anxiety

Barking is another common behavior that dogs may exhibit when left alone. Excessive barking can be a sign of separation anxiety, which is a condition that occurs when dogs become distressed when separated from their owners. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark, whine, howl, or even destroy things in the home. To prevent this behavior, it is important to gradually accustom your dog to being alone by practicing leaving them alone for short periods and rewarding them for good behavior. In severe cases, medication or behavioral therapy may be necessary.

Chewing: A Destructive Behavior

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can become destructive when they are left alone. Dogs may chew on furniture, shoes, or other household items, causing damage and creating a safety hazard. To prevent this behavior, provide your dog with appropriate chew toys and keep valuable items out of reach. If your dog continues to chew, it may be a sign of anxiety or boredom and may require additional exercise or mental stimulation.

Digging: A Natural Instinct

Digging is another natural behavior for dogs that can become problematic when they are left alone. Dogs may dig holes in the yard or destroy landscaping, causing damage and creating a safety hazard. To prevent this behavior, provide your dog with a designated digging area, such as a sandbox or designated area of the yard. You can also provide mental stimulation by hiding treats or toys for your dog to find.

House-Soiling: A Result of Anxiety or Lack of Training

House-soiling is a common problem for dogs that are left alone. Dogs may urinate or defecate in the house due to anxiety, lack of training, or a medical issue. To prevent this behavior, ensure that your dog is properly trained to eliminate outdoors and provide frequent opportunities for them to go outside. If your dog continues to have accidents, it may be a sign of anxiety or a medical issue and may require veterinary attention.

Searching for Food: A Survival Instinct

Dogs have a natural instinct to search for food, and they may engage in this behavior when left alone. Dogs may rummage through the trash or search for food in the kitchen, creating a mess and potentially ingesting harmful substances. To prevent this behavior, ensure that your dog has access to appropriate food and water and keep hazardous substances out of reach.

Escaping: A Risk for Outdoor Dogs

Outdoor dogs may be at risk of escaping when left alone. Dogs may dig under fences, jump over walls, or find other ways to escape, potentially putting themselves in danger. To prevent this behavior, ensure that your dog is properly secured in a fenced area, provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation, and consider using a GPS collar to track your dog’s location.

Watching out the Window: A Common Pastime

Many dogs enjoy watching out the window when left alone. Dogs may watch passersby or other animals, providing mental stimulation and entertainment. However, excessive barking or jumping up on windowsills can be a problem. To prevent this behavior, provide your dog with appropriate distractions, such as toys or treats, and discourage excessive barking or jumping.

Playing with Toys: A Good Way to Pass the Time

Playing with toys is a great way for dogs to pass the time when left alone. Dogs may enjoy playing with balls, chew toys, or interactive toys that dispense treats. Providing your dog with appropriate toys can help prevent destructive behavior and provide mental stimulation.

Licking and Grooming: A Comforting Activity

Licking and grooming is a comforting activity for dogs that can help them relax when left alone. Dogs may groom themselves or lick their paws, providing mental stimulation and comfort. However, excessive licking or grooming can be a sign of anxiety or a medical issue and may require veterinary attention.

Conclusion: How to Help Your Dog When You’re Away

When leaving your dog alone, it is important to understand the activities that they may engage in and take steps to prevent destructive or harmful behavior. Providing appropriate exercise, mental stimulation, and toys can help prevent destructive behavior and provide comfort and entertainment. Gradually accustoming your dog to being alone and seeking veterinary attention if necessary can also help prevent anxiety-related behaviors. By understanding your dog’s needs and taking steps to meet them, you can help ensure that your dog is happy and healthy when you’re away.