Dogs are sensitive beings, and it's crucial for their owners to tend to their emotional health as well as their physical health. When dogs don't get enough love and attention, they can start to feel neglected. Neglect can have a significant negative impact on a dog's well-being, affecting both their emotions and physical health. So, it's important to be aware of the signs that dogs show when they feel lonely or neglected. Here are some common signs.
The 10 Signs Your Dog Feels Neglected
1. Increased Barking and Whining
When dogs feel neglected, they may bark and whine more to get their owner's attention. But if the owner always pays attention when they do this, dogs will learn that making noise is an effective way to draw attention, and they'll keep doing it.
2. Pawing at You
If barking and whining don't work, dogs may start pawing at their owners. Dogs can paw for various reasons, but those feeling neglected may seem to do it just for attention. They might also rub their face against the owner's hand to get petted.
3. Increased Bathroom Accidents
Dogs feeling neglected may have bathroom accidents in the house, even if they're potty trained. Emotions like fear, anxiety, or frustration from neglect can lead to this. However, changes in urine habits could also mean a health problem, so it's best to take the dog to the vet if there are sudden accidents.
4. Destroying Furniture
Neglected and bored dogs may develop destructive behaviors. They have pent-up energy, anxiety, and frustration, which can make them bite, rip, scratch, or dig at things like pillows, cushions, carpets, and curtains. This can become an attention-seeking behavior.
5. Separation Anxiety
Dogs feeling neglected are prone to separation anxiety, which occurs when they're distressed without their owners. Changes in the home, like a new family member or moving, can trigger it. It's important to give proper attention during such changes.
6. Changes in Weight and Eating Habits
Neglect can affect a dog's eating habits. Some may eat more, while others lose interest and gain or lose weight. It's hard to predict which way a dog will go, as anxious dogs may eat less.
7. Increased Sleep
Dogs may get depressed when neglected, showing increased sleep and disinterest in play. Since dogs normally sleep a lot, it's important to know their normal patterns to detect changes.
8. Hyperactivity
Some dogs become hyperactive when neglected, especially those with high energy breeds. Lack of exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction can lead to pent-up energy and hyperactivity.
9. Excessive Licking
Licking is normal, but too much can indicate neglect. Dogs may lick for attention or self-soothe, as licking releases endorphins and can become compulsive.
10. Withdrawal
Dogs feeling neglected may hide and withdraw to distance themselves from stressors. They might do this if they're fearful or bored.
Preventing Feelings of Neglect in Your Dog
Dogs can feel neglected for various reasons like routine changes, moving, or new family members. They're sensitive to changes, so any sudden ones can make them uneasy. If your dog shows neglect signs, think about recent changes. Maintaining a healthy routine is also important. All dogs need exercise, play, and attention. Incorporating appropriate exercise and playtime, and spending quality time with your dog can prevent neglect. Some fun activities dogs may like include car rides, hiking, learning tricks, or dog sports.
Conclusion
Neglect feelings in dogs should be taken seriously as they can harm both physical and emotional well-being. If you notice behavioral changes in your dog, visit the vet first to rule out medical causes. There are many ways to help your dog feel less neglected. Creating a healthy routine with exercise, enrichment activities, and quality time will improve your dog's life and make them feel safe and loved.
Featured Image Credit: evrymmnt, Shutterstock
