How to Stop Your Dog from Barking When You Leave Home

Dogs' language and communication are very diverse and it is common for the same behavior to have multiple meanings. For example, barking is the main sound dogs make and can occur in a variety of circumstances to express very different moods and needs.

Understanding why this is happening to your dog requires paying attention to his routine, his environment, and even his health. To help you out, below we briefly list the main reasons why dogs bark when left alone.

Loneliness

Dogs are gregarious animals that naturally live, eat, and sleep in social groups. Therefore, regardless of their breed or age, dogs are not biologically or emotionally prepared to be alone for long periods of time. In fact, excessive solitude can trigger a series of behavioral disorders, such as destructiveness and excessive barking, as well as health problems, such as depression.

Likewise, puppies and older dogs are often more likely to have a hard time when they are left alone. This is because they are particularly sensitive at these stages of their life, which makes them feel more vulnerable and less secure when faced with any adverse or unknown stimulus.

Boredom

Even if your dog doesn't spend many hours alone, chances are that at some point they'll get bored and look for some way to entertain themselves. When this happens and the dog's environment is not properly enriched, the need to keep their mind and body active can lead them to resort to undesirable behaviors to break the monotony. In this context, the dog may break things, scratch furniture, doors and walls, bark or cry incessantly or even try to escape.

Stress

Stress and boredom are often related, because a dog that is showing signs of stress today has previously given clear signs that it was bored. This is because a sedentary routine in an impoverished environment does not allow dogs to expend energy and express themselves freely, which results in a lot of accumulated tension. In these cases, excessive barking is manifested as a means of discharging this excess energy and relieving the discomfort generated by it.

For more information on how to identify if your dos is stressed, be sure to check this other article.

Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is a stress condition where a dog struggles to cope with being alone, triggered by the absence of their guardian. This often stems from a hyper-attachment to their owner, causing emotional and cognitive distress when apart. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark excessively, become destructive, have inappropriate bowel movements near doors, or experience appetite changes, either overeating or refusing food until their owner returns.

When adjusting to a new home or environment, it is normal for dogs, especially puppies or newly adopted pets, to feel insecure and exhibit behaviors like barking, crying, or howling. This period of adaptation requires patience, with loneliness introduced gradually to help them build confidence and a sense of security. Learn more about separation anxiety in dogs and effective ways to manage this issue in this other article.

Health problems

Diseases and disorders that cause neurological symptoms or mood swings can make a dog feel vulnerable, especially when left alone. In addition, pain often causes crying and exaggerated vocalizations, which may be an explanation for why your dog barks and howls when you leave.

It is also worth noting that as dogs age, they experience a progressive loss of their sensory abilities. As a result, older dogs are particularly prone to barking and overreacting to any stimulus.

If your dog barks excessively when you leave home, addressing the problem starts with identifying its root cause.

As we mentioned before, excessive barking stems from complex behavioral or health issues that require a diagnosis and tailored support from a veterinary ethologist. If you notice a significant change in your dog’s behavior, consult a professional promptly.

In the meantime, there are practical steps you can take to help reduce the frequency or intensity of your dog’s barking:

• Leave an item with your scent: providing your dog with a piece of your clothing can offer comfort. The familiar scent can ease feelings of loneliness and help your dog feel more secure in your absence.

• Enrich their environment: ensure your dog has access to engaging toys or resources that provide mental stimulation. Items like Kong toys, which can be filled with treats, are highly effective in keeping dogs occupied and reducing anxiety.

• Try interactive feeders: using an interactive or slow feeder can make mealtimes more stimulating and help redirect your dog’s focus while you’re away.

• Provide a safe shelter: for dogs that are newly adopted or fearful of loud noises, creating a small, comfortable space can help them feel secure. A sturdy box or crate with a blanket, a piece of your clothing, and their favorite toys can serve as a calming refuge.

• Incorporate calming scents: essential oils like chamomile, lavender, or valerian can promote relaxation when used properly in your dog’s environment. Always consult a veterinarian to ensure these are safe for your dog before use.

• Consider synthetic pheromones: dog-appeasing pheromones (DAP) can help manage separation anxiety and stress, but their effectiveness varies among dogs. A veterinarian can advise whether this option is suitable for your pet.

• Evaluate social solutions: If your dog enjoys social interactions, adopting a second dog or using dog daycare services could provide companionship and reduce feelings of isolation.

Games are a powerful way to provide mental stimulation and reduce stress in dogs. For more ideas, check out our other article on fun intelligence games you can play at home.

Preventing excessive barking begins with reducing your dog’s stress and establishing a consistent, supportive routine. Dogs thrive on predictability, so maintaining regular schedules for meals, walks, and rest helps them feel secure.

Ensure your dog receives ample physical and mental stimulation. Daily walks, ideally at least three times a day, are essential for exercise and exploration, while an enriched environment with toys and puzzle games keeps their mind engaged.

Teach your dog to handle loneliness gradually. Begin with short absences, staying nearby to monitor their reaction. Gradually extend the time away, showing your dog that you’ll always return. This helps them associate being alone with safety rather than anxiety.

Training from an early age reinforces appropriate behaviors and builds a foundation for good habits. However, training can be effective at any stage of a dog’s life with patience and consistency.

Preventative healthcare also plays a key role. Keep your dog’s vaccinations and deworming up to date, provide a balanced diet, and schedule regular vet check-ups to maintain their overall health and well-being.

If your efforts don’t resolve the issue, consult a professional for tailored advice and support.

Want to improve your dog walking experience? This article explains 5 things you might be doing wrong.

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