Why Dog Cries When Owner Returns (Reasons) – PetDogsLife
Do you know why your dog cries when you come home? Dogs are pack animals and they love their owners.
When the owner leaves, the dog is left in a state of uncertainty and often feels abandoned. And when the owner returns, the dog is overjoyed to see them and expresses its happiness through crying.
This suggests that crying may be a way for dogs to communicate their feelings of anxiety. To know more about why dog cries when owner returns, keep reading!
Why Dog Cries When Owner Returns – After A Very Long Time?
Dogs are social animals that form close attachments with their owners. When you leave your dog home alone, they may experience feelings of anxiety and fear.
This is because they are not used to being away from their pack (i.e., you and your family).
As a result of this separation anxiety, your dog may exhibit various behaviours such as crying, barking, chewing, or pacing.
These behaviours are their way of trying to cope with the anxiety and stress of being away from you.
Reasons Why Dog Cries When Owner Returns After A Very Long Time
There are many reasons why a dog cries when its owner returns home. The most common reasons are separation anxiety, excitement, and fear.
1) Separation Anxiety
The main reason for a dog’s crying behaviour is separation anxiety. This is a condition in which a dog becomes excessively anxious when away from its owner.
Dogs with separation anxiety may cry, bark, howl, pace, or chew on furniture when left alone. They may also have accidents inside the house.
2) Excitement
Another reason why dogs cry when their owners come home is excitement. Dogs may become so excited to see their owners that they can’t help but express their joy through crying.
3) Fear
Fear is another possible reason for a dog’s crying behaviour. Dogs may cry out of fear of being scolded or punished. They may also be afraid of being left alone again.
4) Lack of Socialization
Lack of socialization is another possible reason for a dog’s crying behaviour. Dogs who are not properly socialized may cry when they see their owner because they are not used to being around people.
5) Lack Of Exercise
Lack of exercise is another possible reason for a dog’s crying behaviour. Dogs who do not get enough exercise may become bored and anxious. This can lead to them crying when their owner comes home.
Tips to Help Dog With Crying When Owner Returns
If your dog is crying when you come home, there are a few things you can do to help.
- Give your dog plenty of exercise. Dogs who get enough exercise are less likely to become anxious and stressed.
- Give your dog plenty of attention. Dogs who feel loved and secure are less likely to cry when their owners come home.
- Leave your dog with a toy or treat. This will help to keep your dog occupied and distracted.
- Avoid scolding or punishing your dog. This will only make the problem worse.
- Seek professional help if the problem persists. A behaviorist or veterinarian can help you to identify the cause of your dog’s anxiety and provide you with tips on how to deal with it.
How To Stop Your Dog From Crying When You Leave?
If you want to stop your dog from crying when you leave, you should do these things:
1. Get Them Used To Be Away From You Gradually
This can be done by leaving them alone for short periods of time at first, and then gradually increasing the amount of time they are left alone.
2. Make Sure They Have Plenty To Keep Them Occupied
This includes things like food puzzles, chew toys, and Kongs stuffed with treats.
3. Ignore Them When You First Come Home
This may seem to mean, but it is actually the best way to show your dog that they do not need to worry. Once they have calmed down, you can then give them attention.
4. Talk To Your Veterinarian
If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe, you may need to talk to your veterinarian about medication options.
What Are Symptoms Of Anxiety In Dogs?
The symptoms of anxiety in dogs can vary depending on the individual dog and the severity of their anxiety. However, some common symptoms include:
- Panting
- Trembling
- Excessive drooling
- Destructive behaviours (e.g., chewing, digging)
- Barking or howling
- Pacing
- Inappropriate elimination (e.g., urinating or defecating in the house)
- Refusal to eat or drink
What Does Depression Look Like In Dogs?
The signs of depression in dogs can vary depending on the individual dog. However, some common symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Inactivity
- Withdrawal from social interactions
- Excessive grooming or licking of the body
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Changes in sleeping patterns
Does My Dog Miss Me When I’m Gone?
Yes, your dog likely misses you when you’re gone. This is because dogs are social animals and are closely attached to their owners. When you’re not around, they may experience feelings of loneliness or anxiety.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about why dog cries when owner returns. As you can see, there are many different reasons why your dog may act this way. However, the most important thing is to be understanding and patient with them.