Ever wondered what goes on when you leave your furry friend at home alone? While they might seem perfectly content, there are quite a few hidden dangers lurking.
In this list, let’s find out what are the surprising and lesser-known risks that come with leaving your dog home unsupervised!
1. Curiosity Leading To Trouble
Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and when left to their own devices, they might channel that curiosity into areas you’d rather they didn’t explore.
Think about all the potential hazards lurking in your home: cleaning supplies, foods toxic to dogs, or small objects they could swallow.
A wagging tail can quickly lead to chaos if your pooch decides to investigate those tempting scents under the sink or in that open cupboard. Dog-proofing your home is a wise preventive step.
2. Escape Artist Tendencies
Fido might be more of an escape artist than you realize. Some dogs, when left alone, will look for ways to break free and explore the great unknown beyond your yard.
Whether it’s digging under fences or squeezing through gaps, determined dogs can surprise you with their Houdini-like talents.
Ensuring your home and yard are secure is crucial to preventing unexpected adventures, which could lead to all sorts of trouble, including getting lost or injured.
3. Boredom-Induced Destruction
Boredom can drive a dog to destructive behavior faster than you can say “fetch.” Without mental stimulation or physical activity, your dog might take its frustration out on your furniture.
Chewed shoes, shredded pillows, and scratched doors are just a few signs that your pet needs more engagement.
Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or a companion pet can help keep your dog’s mind busy and reduce the chances of boredom-driven destruction while you’re away.
4. Unexpected Health Issues
Sometimes, health problems can arise when your dog is left alone for extended periods. Dogs can experience sudden health issues like seizures or gastrointestinal distress without anyone around to help.
For older pets or those with known medical conditions, this risk is even greater.
Consider monitoring systems that allow you to check in on your dog remotely, or have a neighbor pop in to ensure your pet stays healthy and safe while you’re out.
5. Overeating And Obesity Risk
Have a chowhound on your hands? Left unattended, some dogs will eat anything they can find, leading to overeating and potential obesity.
If your dog is particularly food-driven, they might raid the pantry or counter-surf for snacks.
This not only risks weight gain but also the ingestion of harmful foods. Ensure food is stored securely and consider setting up an automatic feeder that controls portions to prevent overindulgence.
6. Noise Phobia Panic
Thunderstorms, fireworks, or even a passing garbage truck can trigger noise phobias in dogs. When left alone, these sounds can cause sheer panic.
Without a comforting presence to calm them, some dogs may harm themselves trying to escape the noise, or create a ruckus in their distress.
Consider soundproofing a safe space or using calming aids like weighted vests to help your pooch cope with unexpected loud noises.
7. Social Isolation Effects
Dogs are social creatures, and prolonged periods of isolation can be tough. Left alone too often, your pup might become withdrawn or excessively clingy when you are home.
Social isolation can lead to long-term behavioral issues and affect their overall happiness.
To counteract this, consider hiring a dog walker or enrolling your dog in a daycare for some playtime and social interaction during the day.
8. Indoor Accidents And Clean-Up
Even a house-trained dog might have the occasional indoor accident when left alone for too long. It’s not just messy; it’s stressful for your pet too.
Anxiety or an inability to hold it in for extended periods can lead to these accidents.
Regular potty breaks or indoor training pads can help manage this issue, reducing stress for both you and your furry friend.
9. Temperature Sensitivity
Keeping your pet comfortable when home alone involves monitoring temperature. Dogs can quickly become overheated or too cold if the environment isn’t just right.
When left alone, they can’t adjust the thermostat, so ensuring the house is at a safe temperature is crucial.
Fans, air conditioning, or heating systems can help maintain a stable climate to ensure your dog’s well-being while you’re out.
10. Unexpected Visitors And Reactions
Ever wonder how your dog reacts to unexpected visitors when you’re not around? The mailman, delivery people, or even passersby can trigger your dog’s territorial instincts.
Without you there to manage the situation, barking or aggressive behavior might occur.
Training to desensitize your dog to these triggers can help, as well as providing a safe space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
11. Allergic Reactions Unnoticed
Allergies can flare up unexpectedly, and a dog left to its own devices may endure discomfort without relief.
Whether it’s seasonal allergies, food intolerances, or reactions to household products, these can cause significant distress.
Being aware of potential allergens and taking preventive measures can help, but consider having a pet camera to monitor unexpected reactions while you’re out.
12. Cognitive Decline In Older Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can experience cognitive decline as they age. Leaving an older dog alone for long periods might exacerbate symptoms of confusion or anxiety.
They may forget where they are or become distressed without familiar cues.
Interactive toys or background noise like a radio can provide comfort and stimulation to help reduce the impact of being alone on aging pets.
13. Security Risks And Break-Ins
Dogs can be both a deterrent to and a target for break-ins. If your dog is alone during a burglary attempt, they might try to defend the home or could get harmed.
While their presence might discourage would-be intruders, it also puts them in potential danger.
Installing security systems or cameras can help protect both your home and your pet from unwelcome visitors while you’re away.
14. Separation Anxiety Meltdown
Ever seen your pup give you those big, soulful eyes when you leave? That’s the start of separation anxiety. Dogs, especially those closely bonded with their owners, can experience intense distress when left alone.
This anxiety can manifest in relentless barking, destructive chewing, or even potty accidents indoors. It’s not just a cry for attention; the stress can be overwhelming for our furry pals.
Calming treats, soothing music, or a piece of your clothing might help ease their nerves when you’re away.
15. Resource Guarding Behavior
Some dogs develop resource guarding behaviors when left alone with their favorite toys or treats. This can lead to aggressive tendencies if they feel their prized possessions are threatened.
Such behavior might escalate over time, making it difficult to manage when you’re back home.
Training and behavior modification techniques can help address resource guarding, ensuring your pup remains calm and relaxed, even in your absence.