10 signs your dog feels neglected

10 Signs Your Dog Might Feel Neglected

 

As a dog owner, you love your dog and want the best for them. But sometimes, life gets busy, and we might unknowingly overlook our furry friends’ emotional needs. Dogs are loyal companions, but they also require consistent attention and interaction to thrive. If they don’t receive enough engagement, they may begin to feel neglected, which can manifest in various behavioural and emotional signs.

In this blog, we’ll explore 10 key signs that your dog might be feeling left out and what you can do to strengthen your bond and keep them happy.

Table of Contents

 

Sign #1 Destructive “Jobs”

Certain dog breeds, like Border Collies or German Shepherds, are known for their intelligence and high energy. These breeds have historically been bred for specific tasks, such as herding livestock or guarding property. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they might channel their energy into destructive behaviours, like tearing up furniture, digging into walls, or shredding household items.

How to Fix It: Provide your dog with plenty of interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular exercise. Engage them in tasks or games that mimic the work they’re bred for, such as agility training or playing fetch.

Sign #2 Excessive Jumping

Jumping up to greet you can seem like an innocent, excited gesture. However, if your dog frequently jumps up, even when there’s no reason for excitement, it might indicate they’re seeking more attention from you. Jumping is often a dog’s way of closing the height gap to make sure they’re noticed.

How to Fix It: Train your dog to sit or stay when they greet you. Reinforce good behaviour by rewarding calm greetings with treats or affection.

Sign #3 Oversleeping

Dogs are natural nappers, sleeping up to 14 hours a day. However, if your dog spends most of their time asleep, even when you’re home, it might be a sign of depression or boredom. They may have learned to expect little interaction and choose sleep as a way to pass the time.

How to Fix It: Schedule regular playtimes and walks to encourage activity. Introduce new toys or games to stimulate their mind and keep them engaged.

Sign #4 Loss of Social Skills

Social interactions are crucial for a dog’s mental health. A dog that spends too much time alone may become overly fearful or aggressive toward strangers or other animals. They might struggle to navigate social situations, leading to problematic behaviours like barking, growling, or even biting.

How to Fix It: Arrange playdates with other dogs, visit dog fields, or enroll them in obedience classes to help rebuild their confidence and social skills.

Sign #5 Velcro Dog Syndrome

Some dogs become overly clingy when they feel neglected, following you everywhere and refusing to let you out of their sight. This behaviour, known as Velcro Dog Syndrome, is often a sign of separation anxiety and can make it difficult for you to perform daily tasks without their constant presence.

How to Fix It: Gradually teach your dog to be comfortable spending time alone. Start with short periods of separation and reward them for staying calm. Consider using calming products like Dorwest Herbs Valerian Compound to reduce anxiety.

Sign #6 Whisker Language

Dogs communicate a lot through body language, and their whiskers can be a surprisingly good indicator of their emotional state. Relaxed whiskers typically signal a happy and content dog, while whiskers that flare outward can indicate stress or anxiety. If you notice your dog’s whiskers often flared, they might be feeling insecure or neglected.

How to Fix It: Pay attention to your dog’s body language and provide comfort and reassurance when they seem anxious. Spend quality time with them to rebuild their trust and confidence.

Sign #7 Chewing Frenzy

Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs, helping them clean their teeth and exercise their jaws. However, when dogs start chewing on inappropriate items like shoes, furniture, or electronics, it’s often a sign of boredom or frustration. This behaviour can escalate if they’re not getting enough mental stimulation.

How to Fix It: Offer a variety of chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep things interesting. Engage your dog in games or activities that provide both mental and physical exercise.

Sign #8 Excessive Barking

Dogs bark for many reasons: excitement, fear, or to alert you of a potential threat. However, excessive barking, especially when left alone, can indicate distress. Dogs use vocalisations to call out to their pack, and if they feel neglected, they may bark to try and get your attention.

How to Fix It: Spend more time interacting with your dog to reduce their feelings of loneliness. Provide them with toys or puzzles to keep them occupied when you’re not home.

Sign #9 Reverting Indoors

If your potty-trained dog suddenly starts having accidents indoors, it might be a sign of stress or insecurity. Dogs use their waste to mark territory, and this behaviour can occur if they feel their space is threatened or if they’re left alone for too long.

How to Fix It: Rule out medical issues with a vet first. Then, focus on reducing stress by maintaining a consistent routine and spending more time bonding with your dog.

Sign #10 Overly Friendly with Strangers

While it’s great to have a social dog, your dog should still prefer your company over strangers. If your dog seems more eager to interact with others than with you, it could be a sign they’re seeking the attention they’re missing at home.

How to Fix It: Prioritise quality time with your dog. Engage them in activities they enjoy, like walks, playtime, or training sessions, to reestablish your bond.

Final Thoughts

Recognising these signs of neglect in your dog is the first step to making positive changes. Remember, dogs are social animals that thrive on companionship and interaction. By dedicating regular time to their needs and providing both mental and physical stimulation, you can ensure your furry friend feels loved and valued.

If you’ve noticed any of these behaviours in your dog, don’t worry—it’s never too late to strengthen your bond and create a happier, healthier relationship. With patience and consistency, you can turn things around and bring joy back into your dog’s life.

Looking for products to keep your pup entertained and engaged? Explore our selection of high-quality dog toys, training tools, and comfort items to make every day with your dog a great one!

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie

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