8 Dog Breeds to Avoid if You Won’t Be Home Much
Having a dog is a major commitment, especially if you’re out of the house for long hours. While some dog breeds are naturally more independent, others rely heavily on human companionship and can experience separation anxiety, boredom, or behavioral issues if left alone for extended periods. Understanding these breed-specific needs is essential to making sure your dog remains happy and healthy.
This article takes an in-depth look at breeds that generally don’t cope well with being left alone. We’ll explore why these dogs may struggle, discuss how their needs align (or clash) with a lifestyle where owners are frequently out of the house, and provide tips for dog lovers who may be working long hours but still want to bring a dog into their lives.
Why Some Dogs Struggle When Left Alone
Some breeds were developed to work alongside humans, making them more dependent on companionship. Others are simply high-energy dogs that need a lot of physical and mental engagement. When left alone for extended periods, they may exhibit signs of stress, anxiety, and boredom, such as barking, chewing, or pacing. Selecting a breed that aligns with your lifestyle is key to ensuring a harmonious relationship for both you and your dog.
Dog Breeds That May Struggle with Being Left Alone
1. Border Collie
Border Collies are among the most intelligent and high-energy dog breeds, originally bred to herd livestock. These dogs thrive on activity, mental challenges, and close human interaction. Without a “job” to do, Border Collies can easily become bored and frustrated, leading to behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, and attempts to escape. They’re best suited to active homes where someone is available to engage with them throughout the day.
2. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells are small but packed with energy and curiosity. Originally bred for hunting small game, they have strong prey drives and a natural instinct to explore and dig. These terriers need frequent physical activity and mental stimulation, and they can quickly become noisy or destructive if left alone too often. Jack Russells are ideal for households where they receive consistent attention and playtime.
3. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are herding dogs known for their intelligence, loyalty, and high energy. They form strong bonds with their families and are often happiest when given a job or physical activity. If left alone for too long, Australian Shepherds can become anxious or bored, leading to excessive barking and destructive behavior. They do best in active homes where someone can provide the engagement and structure they need.
4. Beagle
Beagles are scent hounds with a strong hunting instinct and a highly social nature. They thrive in social settings and love being part of a pack, whether that’s other dogs or humans. Beagles are known for their vocal tendencies (often howling or barking), especially when left alone. Without ample companionship or stimulation, they may become anxious and engage in digging, chewing, or escape attempts.
5. Siberian Husky
Huskies are well-known for their energy, endurance, and pack mentality. Bred as sled dogs, they’re used to working closely with other dogs and people, making them highly social. Huskies can become restless and vocal if left alone, and their natural curiosity can lead them to escape or become destructive. This breed does best with owners who can offer frequent exercise and mental engagement.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, active, and often quite vocal. They form strong bonds with their families and can become anxious if left alone too long. These dogs need regular activity and mental stimulation to stay content, and without it, they may engage in excessive barking or digging. Miniature Schnauzers thrive in homes where they can interact regularly with their humans.
7. Dachshund
Dachshunds are loyal and spirited dogs with strong hunting instincts, originally bred to track and chase game. Known for their determination and sometimes vocal nature, they can become anxious or bark excessively when left alone. Dachshunds benefit from environments where they have companionship and regular interaction to keep them happy and mentally stimulated.
8. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are loyal, high-energy dogs often described as “Velcro dogs” because they love being close to their owners. Originally bred for hunting, they require lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation. Weimaraners often experience separation anxiety, leading to barking, destructive behavior, or escape attempts if left alone too long. They do best with active families who can spend time with them.
Tips for Dog Owners with Busy Schedules
If you’re often out of the house but still want to add a dog to your family, there are ways to make it work without causing stress to your dog. Here are some strategies that can help:
Consider More Independent Breeds: Breeds like Greyhounds, Shiba Inus, and Basset Hounds are generally more independent and may cope better with time alone.
Hire a Dog Walker or Pet Sitter: A professional dog walker or sitter can break up your dog’s day with walks, playtime, and companionship, which is especially helpful for high-energy or social breeds.
Provide Enrichment and Stimulation: Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or treat-dispensing devices can help keep your dog entertained. Leaving the TV or radio on can also provide a sense of companionship.
Consider Doggy Daycare: If feasible, doggy daycare can give your dog social interaction and exercise, especially helpful for breeds that need lots of stimulation.
Adopt Two Dogs: While it’s a bigger commitment, two dogs can provide companionship for each other and may handle alone time better together.
Bringing a dog into your life requires careful consideration, especially if you have a busy schedule. While some breeds are highly social and energetic, making them better suited to homes with ample interaction, others are more content with alone time. By matching a breed’s needs to your lifestyle, you can ensure a happier, healthier environment for both you and your dog.
