Shutterstock
Dogs are known for their strong bond with humans, but they also form deep connections with other dogs. Just like they miss their owners, dogs can miss their furry friends too. If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog is missing their canine companions, there are several signs to watch for. These subtle cues can help you understand when your dog is longing for the companionship of other dogs. Dogs’ emotions run deep, and these behaviors are their way of expressing their need for connection and socialization.
Excessive Whining or Barking
Shutterstock
One of the first signs your dog may miss their canine friends is an increase in whining or barking. Dogs communicate with vocalizations, and when they’re feeling lonely or frustrated, they may turn to these sounds to express their feelings. If your dog has recently been separated from their playmates, you might notice more frequent whining, barking, or howling, especially when they’re alone. This vocalization is their way of expressing that they miss the social interaction they get from other dogs and are trying to fill the void with sound.
Looking Out the Window
Shutterstock
Many dogs will sit by the window or stare out the door if they’re missing a friend. If your dog seems to fixate on specific areas of the home, like a window or doorway, this could be a sign they’re anticipating the return of a dog companion. Dogs who have formed close relationships with other dogs might wait for hours, staring outside in hopes of seeing them again. This behavior is particularly common in dogs that used to have playdates, regular walks with other dogs, or canine siblings in the home.
Searching the House
Shutterstock
Another sign your dog might miss their canine friends is if they begin searching the house, sniffing around as if looking for something—or someone. When dogs are familiar with the scent of another dog, they can become quite focused on locating that particular smell. If your dog used to play with or live with another dog, they may wander around your home or yard sniffing in places where they last interacted. This behavior is a clear indication that they are looking for their friend or trying to reconnect with familiar smells.
Destructive Behavior
Shutterstock
If your dog begins exhibiting destructive behavior like chewing on furniture, shoes, or household items, it could be a sign that they’re feeling stressed or anxious due to the absence of their dog friends. Dogs need mental and physical stimulation, and without another dog to play with, they might start to act out. Destruction can be a sign of boredom or frustration, both of which are heightened when a dog misses their regular canine companionship. This behavior is often a plea for attention or a way to release pent-up energy.
Sleeping Restlessly
Shutterstock
Dogs who miss their canine companions might have trouble settling down at night. If you notice your dog pacing, moving around the house more than usual, or having trouble falling asleep, it may be due to the absence of a familiar doggy friend. Dogs tend to feel comforted by the presence of other dogs, and without this calming influence, they may feel unsettled. Restlessness can manifest in various ways, from circling their bed to excessive movement during sleep. This is often an emotional response to the absence of a canine companion they were used to being with.
Loss of Appetite
Shutterstock
A sudden decrease in appetite can be another sign your dog is missing their dog friends. Just like humans, dogs can experience emotional stress, which affects their eating habits. If your dog is usually enthusiastic about meals but suddenly shows disinterest, it could be a sign that they are missing the companionship and interaction of other dogs. This loss of appetite could also be linked to anxiety or sadness, emotions that may arise from missing a friend. Keeping an eye on their eating habits can help determine if this behavior is linked to missing a doggy companion.
Increased Loneliness or Separation Anxiety
Shutterstock
When dogs miss their canine friends, they may become more attached to their human owners, seeking constant companionship and attention. This behavior may manifest as clinginess, following you around the house, or even sitting on your feet. If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety when you leave, it could be a sign they are lonely without the presence of another dog. Dogs are social creatures, and they rely on their canine companions to fill their need for companionship. Without that other dog, they may become more dependent on you, seeking constant reassurance and comfort.
Playful Behavior Toward Other Dogs
Shutterstock
If your dog suddenly becomes overly playful or enthusiastic around other dogs, it might be a sign they miss the interaction with their regular canine friends. Dogs that are typically calm or reserved may start jumping, wagging their tail excessively, or even trying to initiate play with any dog they come across. This behavior is a way for your dog to express their longing for the companionship and fun they used to have. It’s their way of filling the void left by their missing dog friend by seeking new connections and opportunities to play.
Pacing or Restlessness
Shutterstock
Another common sign of your dog missing their canine friend is pacing or restlessness. Dogs who are used to having another dog around for comfort and companionship may show signs of distress when that companion is no longer there. You might notice your dog walking in circles, standing by the door, or appearing anxious as they look for their missing friend. This is their way of coping with the confusion or loneliness they feel when a familiar dog is absent from their environment.
Changes in Behavior Around Dog-Specific Stimuli
Shutterstock
If your dog begins reacting strongly to dog-specific stimuli, like the sound of a leash being picked up, the scent of another dog, or seeing a dog on TV, it could be an indication that they miss their canine companions. Dogs who have spent a lot of time around other dogs may associate certain cues with the presence of their friend. When they experience these triggers and their friend is absent, it can lead to excitement, anxiety, or sadness. These behavioral shifts show just how deeply your dog has bonded with their dog friends.
Excessive Licking
Shutterstock
Excessive licking can also be a sign that your dog is missing their canine companions. When dogs feel stressed or anxious, they often turn to repetitive behaviors like licking themselves or even objects around them. If your dog has suddenly begun licking more than usual, it might be due to the emotional strain of missing their friend. Licking can serve as a self-soothing behavior to help calm themselves in the absence of a dog they are familiar with.
Displaying Signs of Depression
Shutterstock
Dogs can become depressed when they lose a companion, whether it’s another dog or even a person. Symptoms of depression in dogs include lethargy, lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed, and a general withdrawal from interaction. If your dog seems down or disconnected after their canine friend has left, they may be mourning the loss or absence of that friend. Depression in dogs can be subtle, so it’s essential to observe their overall mood and energy levels if you suspect they’re struggling with missing their buddy.
Seeking Out Other Dogs
Shutterstock
If you notice that your dog becomes more eager than usual to approach other dogs on walks or in public places, it could be a sign they are missing their canine friend. Your dog may seek out new dog pals as a way to fill the emotional void left by their absence. Dogs have a strong social drive and seek companionship with their kind, so encountering other dogs can help them feel a little better. This behavior is often a way for them to replace the bond they’ve lost with a new connection.
The Doggone Truth About Missing Their Pals
Shutterstock
When your dog misses their canine friends, it’s not always easy to spot right away, but the signs are often clear if you know what to look for. These subtle clues can reveal just how much your dog values the companionship of other dogs. Dogs thrive on social connections, and when their playmates or companions are gone, they may feel lonely or anxious. So, if you notice your dog engaging in some of these behaviors, it may be time for a doggy playdate—or a new furry friend!
The post 13 Signs Your Dog Misses Their Canine Friends appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.