Not all dogs handle alone time like champs. Some breeds crack under the pressure when left solo—and it breaks their spirits. These 16 dog breeds struggle more than most with separation anxiety, boredom, and stress. When their humans step out, their world feels like it’s falling apart. This isn’t just about bad behavior—it’s about deep emotional needs that go unmet. The sad truth? Many of these pups end up in shelters because their struggles become too much to manage. But understanding why these breeds suffer is the first step to helping them thrive. Get ready to meet the dogs who crave company, companionship, and a bit more patience. Because every dog deserves a chance to feel safe—even when you’re not home.
Labrador Retriever
With an exuberant personality, the Labrador Retriever craves constant companionship. Known for their loyalty, these dogs often experience separation anxiety when left alone. Their intelligence and need for interaction make periods of solitude challenging.
Many Labradors end up in shelters because their high energy levels and need for stimulation are underestimated. Without adequate exercise and engagement, they may resort to destructive behaviors, leading frustrated owners to give them up.
Did you know? Labradors are known to be great swimmers, a trait inherited from their ancestors who worked alongside fishermen.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd, a breed synonymous with loyalty and protection, often struggles with being left alone. Their strong attachment to their family can make them susceptible to anxiety when separated.
In shelters, German Shepherds are often found because their intense need for a role or job isn’t met by some owners. Without proper mental and physical exercise, they may develop anxiety-driven behaviors.
Fun fact: German Shepherds are widely used in police and military roles due to their intelligence and trainability, further emphasizing their need for mental stimulation.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Adored for their affectionate nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels find solitude particularly challenging. These small dogs are happiest when nestled in the company of their human companions.
Unfortunately, their dependency can lead to distress when left alone, causing them to bark excessively or become destructive. Many end up in shelters as owners struggle to manage their anxiety.
These spaniels were once a favorite of royalty, often seen lounging in the laps of kings and queens, highlighting their preference for constant companionship.
Chihuahua
Though small in size, Chihuahuas have large personalities and a deep attachment to their human families. Their loyalty can become a problem when they are left alone, leading to stress and anxiety.
Chihuahuas often find themselves in shelters due to their misunderstood needs for companionship and security. Without their humans, they may become vocal and nervous, which some owners can’t manage.
Did you know? Despite their tiny stature, Chihuahuas are one of the oldest dog breeds, with origins tracing back to ancient Mexico.
Border Collie
Renowned for their intelligence and herding skills, Border Collies thrive on interaction and activity. When deprived of these, they can become bored and anxious.
Often, these active dogs are surrendered to shelters because their need for mental and physical stimulation isn’t aligned with their owners’ lifestyles. Left alone, they may engage in destructive behaviors to cope.
Fun fact: Border Collies are often considered the most intelligent dog breed, capable of learning a vast array of commands and tasks.
Basset Hound
With their soulful expressions, Basset Hounds can capture hearts, but their independent nature paired with a strong sense of smell can be misleading. These hounds are prone to anxiety when left alone.
Their independence doesn’t equate to being alone; they seek companionship and can become destructive if left to their own devices. Often, they end up in shelters due to these misunderstood behaviors.
Despite their droopy appearance, Basset Hounds have a keen sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound, which makes them exceptional trackers.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, with their charming personalities and bat-like ears, are beloved companions but often suffer when alone. Their strong attachment to humans can make solitude particularly hard.
Many are surrendered to shelters because of their tendency to develop separation anxiety. This can manifest as excessive barking or destructive chewing when left without company.
Did you know? French Bulldogs were originally bred in England as miniature bulldogs and became popular in France among lace workers, giving them their name.
Pug
Pugs, with their expressive faces and playful nature, are known to be social animals that thrive on human interaction. When left alone, they can become anxious and distressed.
Their social nature is often misunderstood, leading to owners surrendering them to shelters when they can’t meet their companionship needs. Alone time can result in unwanted behaviors like barking or restlessness.
Fun fact: Pugs have a rich history dating back to ancient China, where they were kept as treasured pets of the emperors.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, known for their elongated bodies and vibrant personalities, often struggle with being left alone. Their affection for family members can make separation a source of anxiety.
Many dachshunds end up in shelters because of their propensity for barking and anxiety-driven behaviors when left without company. Their independent streak is often mistaken for self-sufficiency.
Did you know? Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers, a feat their long bodies and tenacious nature made possible.
Boxer
Boxers, with their boundless energy and affectionate demeanor, are family-oriented dogs. They often find solitude distressing, leading to anxiety when left home alone.
Owners sometimes surrender Boxers to shelters due to their high energy needs and tendency to become destructive when bored. Without adequate interaction, they struggle to adapt to being alone.
Fun fact: Boxers are named for their playful tendency to “box” with their front paws, a charming trait that endears them to many.
Italian Greyhound
Elegant and graceful, Italian Greyhounds are known for their affectionate nature. However, their delicate temperament makes them prone to anxiety when left without human companionship.
This breed often ends up in shelters because their sensitivity and need for constant attention can be overwhelming for some owners. Solitude can lead to behaviors like incessant barking or whining.
Did you know? Italian Greyhounds were a favorite among Italian nobility during the Renaissance, often depicted in artworks of the era.
Maltese
With their flowing coats and gentle demeanor, Maltese are affectionate companions. However, their need for constant interaction can lead to anxiety when left alone.
Many Maltese find themselves in shelters because their social needs are underestimated by owners. The absence of companionship often results in nervousness and vocal behaviors.
Fun fact: The Maltese has been a companion dog for over 2,000 years, cherished by ancient civilizations for their beauty and personality.
Vizsla
Vizslas, known for their athleticism and affectionate nature, crave human interaction. Their strong bond with family members makes solitude particularly challenging.
This breed is often found in shelters because their high energy levels and need for constant companionship are more than some owners can handle. Left alone, they may become anxious and destructive.
Did you know? The Vizsla is one of the oldest breeds in Europe, with roots tracing back to ancient Hungarian hunters.
Jack Russell Terrier
Lively and intelligent, Jack Russell Terriers are known for their spirited nature. However, when left alone, their zest can turn into anxiety and restlessness.
Many end up in shelters due to their high energy and need for stimulation, which can lead to destructive behaviors if unmet. Owners often find their needs overwhelming.
Fun fact: Jack Russells were originally bred for fox hunting, requiring a personality as tenacious as their quarry.
Rottweiler
Despite their imposing appearance, Rottweilers are deeply attached to their families. This strong bond makes them vulnerable to anxiety when left alone.
Rottweilers often find themselves in shelters due to their misunderstood nature and the challenges of managing their energetic needs. Without proper interaction, they may become restless and destructive.
Did you know? The Rottweiler’s ancestors were used to herd livestock and pull carts, demonstrating their incredible strength and work ethic.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their luxurious coats and affectionate nature, are social animals that thrive on human contact. Being alone can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues.
Many Shih Tzus are surrendered to shelters because their need for companionship is underestimated. When left alone, they may become anxious and vocal.
Fun fact: Shih Tzus were originally bred for companionship by Chinese royalty, reflecting their innate need to be close to humans.