Lonely Dog: Here's How You Can Help

If you are like most people, you have work, errands, and many responsibilities to tend to. If you have a dog in your home, while you are out doing all these things, they may be getting lonely. By nature, dogs are playful and social beings. When left alone too long or too many times, dogs can become depressed, anxious, overweight, or even aggressive. It is important to make as much time for them as you can. If your dog is lonely, there are some things you can do to change this. Here are some lonely dog solutions that you can try.

Giving Your Dog a View of Outdoors

If your dog is home alone, they can get extremely lonely. However, one of the things that might help them to be less lonely is giving them a view of outdoors. You can open up the blinds or curtains on the windows behind the couch, for instance. This will allow your dog to look outside and to have the sun shining on them through the window, as well.

Keeping Your Dog Busy

If you are going to be away from home for a long time (3 or more hours), you should make sure your dog has things to occupy themselves. You can do this by laying out your dog’s bed, blanket, toys, and more. If you have a peanut butter toy for your dog, this would be great for keeping them busy while you are gone. If your dog is kept busy while you are away, they won’t see being left home alone as a bad thing.

Turn the Television On

If you turn the television on before you leave, your dog won’t be left home in silence. The sounds that come from the television can distract your dog. In addition, if there is certain music your dog likes, you can leave this playing for them while you are away, too.

Getting Your Dog a Friend

If you only have 1 dog, it is more likely that they will get depressed or bored when you are away from home. However, it might be beneficial for you to get another dog. Dogs need companionship and if you get another dog, the dog you have now has a friend. They can play together when you aren’t home and keep each other occupied.

Dog Walker

Hiring a dog walker can help to keep your dog happy and healthy while you aren’t home. If you are going to be gone for 6 hours or longer, having someone walk your dog while you are gone can get them the exercise they need during the days, as well.

Walk Before Leaving Home

Do you want to tire your dog out before you leave home? If so, it could be beneficial to take your dog on a walk before you leave. Maybe even playing a game of fetch with your dog before leaving could help to keep them calm and happy while you are gone. These are some of the things you can do if you have a lonely puppy or adult dog while you are away from home. By doing these things, you can keep your dog happy and healthy.

Do dogs get lonely?

Yes, dogs do get lonely. Dogs are pack animals so it's more common for them to be lonely or depressed compared to other animals. Dogs need environmental and mental stimulation to stay healthy, just like us.

How do you know if your dog is lonely?

There are some signs that you can easily spot if you have a lonely dog. These signs include excessive hair loss, excessive barking, sudden lack of interest, and increased sleep.

How to cheer up a lonely dog?

Dogs aren't hard to please. All they need is some love and attention. To cheer up a lonely dog, you can try engaging them in fun activities like games and tricks. Going out for a walk and taking them on playdates will also help. Most importantly, it's imperative that you spend time with them regularly.

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