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Separation anxiety is a common issue for dogs, especially in breeds that bond closely with their owners. Low separation anxiety dogs are often more comfortable spending time alone. Dogs with separation anxiety can exhibit destructive behaviors, barking or howling, or elimination issues when left alone. However, some breeds tend to handle time alone better than others. If you lead a busy lifestyle, consider low anxiety breeds. These dogs can be left alone for parts of the day more comfortably.
Greyhound: Classic Low Separation Anxiety Dogs
Ex-racing greyhounds are used to spending time in kennels and confined spaces. Adopters of retired racing greyhounds often comment on their alone time skills. These dogs usually handle being left alone very well. Their calm temperament and lower energy levels mean they sleep a lot during the day. They are built for sprinting, not endurance, so rest suits them. Just be sure to provide a soft bed for them to relax in.
Labrador Retriever
America's most popular dog breed, the Labrador Retriever, tends to have a very even-tempered, friendly personality. They do enjoy lots of playtime and interaction with their families. As long as their basic needs for exercise and attention are met, Labradors handle periodic alone time well. Their affectionate nature means they still appreciate the time spent bonding with their owners. Labs do best when they receive at least some daily exercise and play. As long as they can unwind and sleep when alone, Labs remain trusting companions. They are typically accepting of everyone they meet.
French Bulldog
The appeal of the French Bulldog keeps growing, thanks to their fun, amusing personalities packaged in a cute, compact body. This breed thrives on attention and likes being around their humans whenever possible. However, the Frenchie also has an off switch and periods of low energy between play sessions. As long as they have some toys available, most French Bulldogs settle in nicely during alone time at home. Take them on a good walk first before leaving them to make sure they have exercised out some energy.
Great Dane
The towering Great Dane grows to an imposing size, but inside beats the heart of gentle giant. This large breed has a reputation for being one of the best breeds with families thanks to their peaceful dispositions. Great Danes don't need quite as much activity as some large breeds either.
Set aside time for daily walks and play, of course. These dogs also spend considerable time napping and resting quietly at home. Their calm persona helps them handle periodic alone time well. Just make sure you have dog supplies sized for a giant dog. Some individuals of this breed can top 175 pounds!
Pug
Pugs often rank as one of the dogs least likely to show separation anxiety. This is due to their calm temperament and lower energy requirements. They are happy to receive lots of attention when their owners are home. Pugs are also fine curling up comfortably alone at home too. This loyal breed usually accepts other humans in their lives as well. They often bond with all household members instead of just one primary person. As a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed, make sure your pug stays cool in summer weather. Pay attention to temperature while they remain home alone too.
Shiba Inu
The foxlike Shiba Inu is an independent minded breed that respects the independence of their owners. As long as a Shiba Inu's basic needs for activity and attention are met, they handle alone time very well. In fact, too much coddling and attention makes some Shibas nervous. Setting aside time for daily walks and play maintains a healthy relationship. This balance helps avoid separation anxiety issues. Inside the home, be sure to provide safe chew toys. Chew toys help keep a curious Shiba busy and content.
Separation anxiety affects all breeds to varying degrees based on temperament, activity needs, and early socialization. Some dog breeds tend to handle periodic alone time better than more high-strung breeds. Every dog has an individual personality, however. Be sure to spend time with both parent dogs when selecting a puppy.
