Dogs are social animals, and many of them find it hard to be alone. If your dog howls, barks, or whines every time you leave the house, you're not alone. Amongst dogs, this behavior is quite common as it often shows a sign of separation anxiety. It can be stressful for you as a pet owner and can also disturb your neighbors if you live in a shared space like an apartment or HDB unit. But don’t worry, with the right approach, you can help your dog feel more secure when alone and reduce their vocal behavior.
Why Dogs Bark or Howl When Being Left Alone?
Before addressing the behavior, it's important to understand why your dog is acting this way. Barking and howling are their way of communicating distress. For some dogs, this behavior starts immediately after their owner leaves, which can indicate separation anxiety. Other dogs may begin barking after being alone for a while, which could suggest boredom or a need for stimulation.
Dogs who suffer from separation anxiety may also show other signs like pacing, chewing furniture, scratching doors, or having accidents indoors. On the other hand, some dogs are simply under-stimulated and need more exercise or mental enrichment to keep them content.
How to Stop a Dog from Howling and Barking When Left Alone?
Start with Daily Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is a calm dog. One of the most effective ways to reduce barking and howling is to make sure your dog gets enough physical and mental activity. Before leaving for work or errands, try taking your dog for a walk, playing fetch, or engaging in a training session. Physical activity helps burn off excess energy, while mental activities like puzzle toys or scent games keep their brain busy.
If your dog is mentally and physically stimulated, they’re less likely to become restless or anxious when you’re gone. One of the things you can also do to ensure your dog doesn’t get bored is to leave their interactive toys around the house. This can help to keep them occupied when you’re away.
Do Daily Practice with Short Departures
If your dog is not used to being left alone, then you can try to leave them for a short time first and slowly increase the time you’re away. Begin by stepping out of the house for just a few minutes. Wait nearby and listen—if your dog remains quiet, return calmly and reward them with affection or a treat.
Slowly increase the duration over time, and you can see how that goes. The goal is to help your dog learn that you always come back and that being alone isn’t something to fear.
Create a Calm and Safe Home Environment
It’s also important to ensure that you make your home feel secure for your dog, so they feel safe even though they are being left alone. Try to create a designated space where your dog feels comfortable, such as a cozy bed in a quiet corner of the house. Some dogs feel calmer in small, enclosed spaces that feel like a den.
You might also want to consider leaving behind your worn T-shirt to help comfort your dog while you are away. Familiar smells can help reduce anxiety and give your dog a sense of your presence.
Addressing Separation Anxiety
For dogs that show strong signs of separation anxiety, additional steps may be needed. You can teach your dog that good things happen when they’re alone. Give them a special treat or toy that only appears when you leave the house. This can help them understand that you’re leaving might not always mean a negative thing, because in the end, they will be given something special in return.
Avoid Punishment
It’s important not to punish your dog for barking or howling. Yelling or scolding can increase their anxiety and make the problem worse. Remember, your dog isn’t misbehaving on purpose—they’re trying to cope with emotions they don’t fully understand. Positive reinforcement and patience are key to helping your dog feel calm and confident when they’re alone.
Consider Pet Sitting Services
If you work long hours or are often away from home, consider hiring a professional pet sitter. A pet sitter can break up your dog’s day and provide them with the attention and activity they need.
A midday walk or a visit from a familiar person can reduce loneliness and make your dog feel less isolated. A pet sitter can also check in on your dog to make sure they’re safe and comfortable, giving you peace of mind. Many pet owners in Singapore use pet-sitting services during busy weekdays or while traveling, and it can make a big difference for dogs who struggle with being alone.
If you’re looking for extra support, our certified pet sitters from Luce can step in to offer comfort and companionship when you're away. Luce’s trusted pet sitters in Singapore are trained to care for your pets like their own—with flexible scheduling and reliable service!
Patience and Consistency Are Key
Changing your dog’s behavior takes time, especially if the barking or howling has been happening for a while. You just need to stay consistent with the routines with your dogs. Avoid rushing the process or expecting overnight results. Every dog learns at their own pace, and with enough support and consistency, your dog can learn to stay calm and quiet when you’re not home.
