Dogs are really social animals, and they form a deep attachment to their humans. Dogs don’t just endure human company, they enthusiastically seek it out. It’s safe to say that companion dogs need social closeness with humans, and deprivation of this interaction poses wellbeing concerns for the man’s best friend.
Leaving your dogs alone is not only a scientific mistake but an ethical one too. Here are the reasons why:
- Boredom may result in bad behaviour
Lonely dogs, not so surprisingly, get wearied, and a bored dog is a “naughty” dog. To keep themselves entertained, these lonely dogs will find something to do on their own, and you will most likely not like their picks. They may start non-stop barking, chewing on things, or defecating around the house. So, try your best to not leave them on their own too much. Keep them occupied with a toy or tasty treats, so they don’t end up demolishing the place simply because they have nothing better to do.
- Lack of stimulation
Dogs that lack social communication with other dogs or people aren’t living or learning. They are simply loafing around. Think about it this way: when you are out of the house, you get to experience a number of new and enthusing things. However, your pooch is alone in a tasteless and inactive environment. So, if you must leave your dog home alone for hours, make sure you provide her/him with some kind of recreation when you get back home, such as a game of fetch, a nice long walk, hide and seek, or a trip to the dog park.
- Health Hazards and Accidents
Mishaps, poisoning, fires, sudden sickness, storms, and urinary tract complications from trying too hard to “hold it in” for long, are all serious hazards your dog might encounter if you are not careful. To minimise the risk of poisoning, make sure to keep possibly harmful foods and medicines or other similar substances away from them. To avoid accidental choking, use a breakaway collar when indoors and regular collar outdoors.
- Separation Anxiety and Loneliness
While we are away, we might see our dogs comfortably napping away or keeping themselves busy, but the more likely scenario is that the dog may be suffering some kind of a separation anxiety, which stems from being away from their owners. When left on its own, your dog may become more upset than you realise. Remember, your doggo doesn’t know when or even if you will ever come back. When you leave the house, make sure to leave behind some fun deeds for him, like interactive toys, or to take her/him for a good long walk before you leave, so s/he will be ready for a nap. Turn on some slow classical music that will add to the entertainment and relaxation.
- They won’t be there for all your life
Someday, when your puppy is old and the time has come to say goodbye, you shouldn’t have to look back and regret all the days you left him alone. Life is too short for qualms, so make sure you spend most of your time with your little friend and don’t disregard her/him. Remember to never take your dog for granted.
Indeed, if there is no option but to leave your pupper alone for some time, do make sure that her/his needs are taken care of. Dog-proof your home and let them have the run of the house for those hours, instead of being locked in a crate. Even better would be if your doggo had a dog door and fenced yard so that s/he could go outside to relieve herself when urgent.
Being there for your dog just like they are there for you is not only required but essential. Make sure you let your little friend know you love them, every single day.
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