As dog parents, we want to make sure that our canine friends lead a happy and healthy life. Unfortunately, we can’t spend every minute of the day together with them, and some breeds find it difficult to stay alone for longer periods of time.
If you are considering becoming a dog parent any time soon but work long hours, take a look at this list of dog breeds who find it difficult to stay alone.
1. Toy Poodle
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Activity level: Highly Active
Perfect for Families
Toy Poodles are known for their high separation anxiety. They quickly bond with their new owner and staying home alone is a pure nightmare for them.
Toy Poodles are classified as highly active dogs and need daily exercise and walks.
2. Australian Shepherd
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Activity level: Highly Active
Perfect for Active Families or Outdoor enthusiasts
Australian Shepherd dogs are a working breed. This means that they were specifically bred for the sole purpose of guarding their cattle.
As pets, Australian Shepherds need constant activity to stay happy and healthy. If left alone for extended periods they can get depressed or even destructive.
3. Chihuahua
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Activity level: Active
Perfect for Single People or Senior Citizens
Although they are small, this popular breed is classified as an active dog. They require at least 60 minutes of exercise each day.
Chihuahuas are also known for being very anxious dogs and being separated from their beloved owners can take a toll on their health.
4. American Pit Bull Terrier
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Activity level: High Energy
Perfect for Families or Outdoor enthusiasts
The highly energetic and active Pit Bull Terrier is just a big cuddle bug. They love spending time with their owner whether snuggled up under a blanket or playing outside.
If you are interested in adopting a Pit Bull make sure to provide your canine with a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise daily.
5. Italian Greyhound
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Activity level: Energetic
Perfect for Active Single People
Although Italian Greyhounds are classified as toy dogs, you’d be surprised by the amount of energy they have. Staying home alone means much more than just not getting their daily exercise.
These adorable dogs have a serious problem with separation anxiety, so consider that before adding them to your family.
6. Bichon Frise
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Activity level: Moderate Energy
Perfect for Families
Bichon Frise breed is not as energetic as the other dog breeds we mentioned so far, as they only need 30 minutes of exercise daily.
However, this fluffy dog breed loves human interaction more than anything. Being separated from their owner can cause serious anxiety problems and even depression.
7. French Bulldog
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Activity level: Low Energy
Perfect for Families or Travel enthusiasts
French Bulldogs are a low-energy type of breed, so spending time on daily exercise shouldn’t be your biggest concern.
They tend to get jealous if their favorite human spends time with other pets and they thrive on human attention. Leaving them alone for longer periods can cause destructive behavior.
8. Fox Terrier
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Activity level: Highly Active
Perfect for Active Families
As with any terrier breed, the Fox Terrier is a highly energetic dog. They need daily runs, playtime, and exercise, or else they become destructive.
If you work long hours and aren’t capable of spending time with this adorable dog breed, then they might not be the best choice for you.
9. Pomeranian
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Activity level: Active
Perfect for Families
Pomeranians are best known for their gorgeous fluff. These tiny dogs are extremely intelligent and although they don’t require too much exercise, they need company.
Pomeranians hate being left all alone, as they thrive on human interaction.
10. Labrador Retriever
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Activity level: Highly Active
Perfect for Families or Outdoor enthusiasts
The most popular dog breed for families with kids is definitely the Labrador Retriever. This highly energetic dog needs daily exercise and training and being left alone does him no good.
Without their humans around, they tend to get hyperactive and destructive as they get bored.
11. Maltese
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Activity level: Low Energy
Perfect for Families
Maltese are not as active as some larger dog breeds so you don’t have to worry about not having time for long daily exercise.
However, this dog breed is prone to anxiety and they love to be around their humans. If you work long hours this is not a perfect dog for you.
12. Border Collie
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Activity level: Highly Active
Perfect for Active Families or Outdoor enthusiasts
Border Collies are another shepherd dog breed specifically bred to be work dogs. However, when they don’t live on a farm they need something to occupy their minds.
Having time to spend with your Border Collie every day is crucial if you’re interested in this breed. When left alone they can get destructive and depressed.
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Activity level: Moderate Energy
Perfect for Single People, Senior Citizens, or Less Active Families
This dog is labeled as a ‘velcro dog’. They love their humans and are known to be extremely needy. They don’t need much exercise, but they do need you to be close to them.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to separation anxiety, making it unwise to leave them alone for extended periods.
14. Dachshund
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Activity Level: Active
Perfect for Families
Dachshunds are known for their strong attachment to their owners. These little dogs form deep bonds and often experience separation anxiety when left alone.
Their independent streak might make them seem like they can handle some alone time, but in reality, they can become anxious and may bark or become destructive.
Dachshunds need regular interaction and mental stimulation, making them happiest in homes where they can be involved in daily activities with their humans.
15. Basset Hound
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Activity level: Moderate
Great for Families
Basset Hounds are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, but they do not enjoy being left alone.
These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and can develop separation anxiety when left on their own for long periods. Basset Hounds prefer companionship and can become vocal or destructive if they feel neglected. Regular exercise and social interaction are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
16. Cocker Spaniel
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Activity Level: Active
Perfect for Families
Cocker Spaniels are affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They form deep bonds with their families and can become anxious if left alone for long periods.
Their sweet and gentle nature makes them ideal for households where someone is often around to give them the attention they crave.
Without regular interaction, they may bark or develop destructive behaviors due to separation anxiety. Cocker Spaniels are happiest when they can participate in daily activities and enjoy plenty of love and cuddles.
17. Doberman Pinscher
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Activity Level: Very Active
Loyal and Protective
Doberman Pinschers are known for their unwavering loyalty and protective instincts. These intelligent dogs bond closely with their families and dislike being left alone.
Extended periods of isolation can lead to stress, barking, or destructive behaviors as they crave both physical and mental engagement.
Dobermans need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy, making them best suited for active households where they can share in family activities and receive consistent attention.