Whether for work, school, or just everyday errands, there’s no doubt that you are going to have to leave your dog alone at some point. But some dog breeds fare better than others. This article will discuss 10 dog breeds prone to separation anxiety and why.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds around the world and are loved as family pets and working dogs. Because they have continued to be bred so closely to humans, including individuals, police officers, as seeing eye dogs, and more, they have developed a deep companionship with their caretakers. This loyalty is unparalleled, and while appreciated, can lead to separation anxiety. German Shepherds live to please their owners and if their owners aren’t around, they might get stressed.

Australian Shepherds

Over the decades, Australian Shepherds have been bred to be working dogs, including herding sheep, serving as search and rescue dogs, or just acting as man’s best friend. All this useful energy is great when there’s a job to be done, but if left alone too long they can get bored and anxious. Australian Shepherds thrive when they are spending time with their owners and working hard.

Labrador Retrievers

Like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers continue to be one of America’s favorite dogs and they are bred very closely with their owners and caretakers. Their loyalty and affection can’t be beat, but they may experience separation anxiety if left alone for too long because they will miss you! Who else will they shower with hugs and slobbery kisses if you aren’t there to receive them?

Border Collies

Border Collies are one of the smartest dog breeds and these brains are one of the reasons why they continue to be such great show dogs, trick dogs, and herders. But if their energy gets pent up for too long, they can become destructive and bored. Border Collie owners should expect to spend a lot of time with their dog training them and giving them plenty of games and exercise.

Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels were raised to be hunting companions and because of this, they are happiest when they are right by your side. Also, as a toy breed, they are often more of a lap dog than an active hunter. With all this love to give, it’s no wonder that they get nervous when their owner isn’t around.

Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russell Terriers have been bred to be highly active and entertaining, which means that they need entertainment, too! Jack Russells love a good project and if they aren’t putting their mind to something constructive, they may be found tearing up the couch or experiencing separation anxiety. Parents of this breed should expect a fun-loving pet that appreciates full-time love.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels’ entire job is to be their owner’s loveable companion. They are the epitome of lap dogs and love to be pampered like, well, kings! They are loyal to a fault and this loyalty and need to be loved can translate into separation anxiety easily.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds may look athletic, but they are more than happy to just lounge on the couch with their owners and soak up all their attention. They are happiest when they are the center of attention and, like any good friend, get sad when left alone.

Miniature Poodles

Miniature or Toy Poodles are cute and sweet and can be toted in a purse or stroller all day. But like other toy breeds, they don’t fare well on their own and are one of the least independent breeds of dogs. All this can lead to separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long.

Vizsla

Vizslas are bred for long days out hunting, and after spending so much time with their owners, they got used to it! These companions are often called “velcro dogs” because they are known to stick by their owner’s side through thick and thin. They are also extremely active and athletic – both ingredients for separation anxiety. Vizslas need lots of love and will reward you for it many times over!

If you’re gone for long stretches throughout the day, these ten dog breeds that are prone to separation anxiety might not be the best fit for your family. But, if you have lots of time to dote on your four-legged friend, maybe a clingy dog is just what you need!