Did you know that not all dog breeds are actually prone to separation anxiety? There are some pooches that act very independent and don’t mind spending time alone.
Today, we are going to talk just about those dog breeds with low separation anxiety that can be left home alone for a few hours without becoming extremely sad.
So, buckle up because we are about to embark on an independent doggie journey!
21 Dog Breeds With Low Separation Anxiety
The scary thing about canine separation and anxiety in general is that it takes a hold of 72.5% furry friends. There are probably more dog breeds that are prone to this issue than there are those that aren’t.
But, we did our research and found plenty of dog breeds that are less likely to develop social anxiety. Most of them are hard-working dogs that have been bred for a certain task rather than just for companionship.
Here are some low-anxiety dog breeds!
1. Akita Inu
Whether it’s a japanese or american Akita Inu, this self-reliant pooch seems to enjoy his alone time. Well, at least for a couple of hours while his owner is away.
Akita Inus are independent by nature and may not show the typical “velcro dog” behavior, so much so that owners may think their puppy doesn’t like them! But, we know that’s not the case!
2. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are big dogs with even bigger hearts, but they don’t feel the need to smother their owners with love and affection all the time.
Sure, these dogs will greet their owner with a few licks and tail wags, but they won’t develop separation anxiety once their humans head off to work again.
3. Basenji
Basenjis may be barkless, but they sure know how to communicate with their owners with different ear positions, tail wags, weird noises, and weirder behavior!
They often act as cats, so it is no wonder that these dogs fall within the low-separation canine group!
4. Basset Hound
Both European and American Basset Hounds are among the laziest dog breeds. They love to take long naps and lay in the sun, without a single care in the world!
That said, they do not mind if their owners are away for a couple of hours, they will probably sleep off the whole shift!
5. Beagle
The fact that Beagles were mostly bred to be the best hunting dogs says a lot about their temperament. They are very loyal towards their owners, but they are driven by their noses which is why sometimes, their owners fall in second place.
Depending on the individual, some Beagles may be prone to separation anxiety a bit more than others. But generally, these dogs are pretty independent and follow their snout wherever it takes them.
6. Bull Terrier
These medium-sized dogs make wonderful companions because they like to spend time with their owners, but they also like to spend time with themselves.
Some Bull Terriers that are left alone often find entertainment such as playing with toys, chasing their tail, or even watching television!
7. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are big boys that will say hi to their owners by wagging their tails and giving them slobbery kisses. Yes, they do get excited when their owners arrive back home, but they don’t spend time alone grieving for their presence.
After all, Bullmastiffs are the biggest guard dogs and they have their mind set on protecting their family instead of thinking about how much they miss them!
8. Cane Corso
When you look at the big eyes of a Cane Corso pup, you may think that it is looking at you in a sad way. But, it is quite the opposite.
These dogs are true guardians of their family and they look at their loved ones with affection and dedication. They focus on work and mental stimulation, which is why they rarely develop separation anxiety.
9. Chow Chow
Don’t worry if your Chow Chow does not lick you like most dogs do. It does not mean that he doesn’t like you, he’s just showing his affection in a different way.
Both male and female Chows are notorious for being independent and strong-willed, which is why they rarely show signs of separation anxiety.
10. English Foxhound
English Foxhounds can do well on their own because they know how to separate love from work.That’s right, when their owners are away for work, these dogs find companionship in interactive toys, slow feeders, and occasional naps.
The fact that they rarely develop separation anxiety makes them one of the healthiest dog breeds.
11. Golden Retriever
You might think that Goldies are prone to separation anxiety, but it is the exact opposite! No matter the type, Golden Retrievers are so high-spirited that they do not have time for developing bad feelings.
With their bright smiles, these dogs always seem to shine with happiness while showing willingness to play.
12. Irish Wolfhound
It seems that the larger the dog, the less likely it is to develop separation anxiety, and that is the case with the Irish Wolfhound.
This gentle giant is affectionate, but also independent and it will wait patiently for his owners to come back home, without becoming anxious or sad.
13. Miniature Schnauzer
If you are considering adopting a miniature Schnauzer, then you can rest easy because this independent pooch rarely develops separation anxiety.
In fact, no matter if it is a giant, miniature or even a teacup Schnauzer, with proper socialization, this pup will do well being left alone for a couple of hours.
14. Otterhound
Otterhounds are dogs that are almost extinct, as there are not many of them left. But, those who are lucky enough to own such a pup will agree that they are affectionate, but also self-reliant enough to be left alone for a short period of time.
They were bred to work independently in packs, which has made them less reliant on human companionship than some other breeds.
15. Pug
Oh Pugs! They are considered dogs with low separation anxiety because they are adaptable and sociable, but also completely cool with being alone for short periods.
Additionally, Pugs are not as high-energy as some other medium-sized breeds, which means they may be less likely to become anxious or destructive when left alone.
16. Scottish Terrier
It seems that many Terrier breeds are considered dogs with low separation anxiety.
Because of their strong will and determined personalities, Scottish Terriers are less likely to become distressed when left alone. But such personalities also put them on a list of least obedient dogs!
17. Shar Pei
Cute and wrinkly, Shar Peis were originally bred for guarding and protecting, which has made them more comfortable spending time alone.
Both standard and miniature versions of this pup are known for their calm and quiet personalities, which can help prevent anxiety and distress when left alone.
18. Shiba Inu
Every paw lover knows that both male and female Shiba Inus are quirky dogs that are very independent and even a bit mischievous.
Due to their aloofness and independence, Shibas rarely suffer from separation anxiety issues.
19. Small Munsterlander Pointer
Small Munsterlander Pointers are among the dogs with low separation anxiety because they were originally bred as versatile hunting dogs that could work both in the field and in the home, which has made them okay with being left alone for periods of time.
In fact, pointer dog breeds are generally considered self-sufficient, active, and less likely to develop destructive behavior.
20. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are large canines that were bred to guard houses, farms, and families.
They are very confident and independent dogs that do not require constant attention or human interaction and are comfortable spending time alone.
21. Whippet
Unlike their Greyhound cousins, Whippets are known to less likely develop separation anxiety.
They are active and energetic, and always seem to find a way to distract themselves from missing their owners too much.
Final Thoughts
Separation anxiety is a common concern for many dog owners, but the good news is that there are many breeds of dogs that are naturally more independent and less prone to anxiety when left alone.
The majority of dog breeds with low separation anxiety are mostly energetic and active dogs that throughout history got used to being by themselves.
Whether you choose a low-energy Pug or an adventurous Whippet, there’s a low-anxiety furry friend out there for everyone.
Remember, every dog is an individual and may have their own unique personality and quirks, so it’s important to get to know your dog and provide them with the training and socialization they need to grow into healthy and happy adults!
With love, attention, and a little bit of patience, you and your pup can conquer separation anxiety together!
