Have you ever felt that pang of guilt when your dog looks at you with sad eyes as you grab your keys? Separation anxiety is something I see often in my holistic vet practice, and it can be stressful for both you and your dog.
The good news is that some breeds are naturally more independent and handle alone time much better than others. Let’s look at what separation anxiety really is, what causes it, and which breeds tend to stay calm when you’re away.
What Is Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
Separation anxiety happens when a dog becomes extremely stressed or panicked after being left alone. It’s not just “missing you”, it’s genuine fear and distress.
Common signs include:
- Persistent barking or whining when left alone
- Chewing or digging at doors, furniture, or windows
- Pacing or panting excessively
- Trying to escape confinement
- Accidents indoors, even if fully house-trained
If your dog shows these behaviors, don’t worry, there are ways to help. Understanding the cause is the first step.
What Causes Separation Anxiety?
Dogs are social animals, so it’s natural for them to feel uneasy when their people are gone. But anxiety can worsen due to:
- Sudden schedule changes (like returning to work after being home more often)
- Moving to a new home
- Loss of a family member or another pet
- Traumatic events (storms, fireworks, or being left alone for too long)
Some breeds are simply more attached and sensitive, while others are naturally more relaxed. Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle can make a big difference.
Benefits of Choosing a Low-Anxiety Breed
Selecting a breed that tolerates time alone can lead to:
- A calmer, more confident dog
- Less stress for you when you leave the house
- Fewer destructive behaviors
- A smoother, happier bond between you and your pet
Of course, even low-anxiety breeds need love, routine, and proper care, but their temperament makes daily life easier for busy families or individuals.
Top Dog Breeds with Low Separation Anxiety
Here are a few breeds I often recommend for clients who work long hours or travel occasionally:
Basset Hound
- Naturally calm and easygoing
- Content to nap or sniff around the yard
- Low energy level reduces boredom-based mischief
Maltese
- Independent yet affectionate
- Adjusts well to small homes or apartments
- Handles alone time with minimal stress
Bichon Frise
- Cheerful, adaptable, and emotionally balanced
- Enjoys companionship but copes well with alone time
- Often thrives in both family and single-owner homes
Each dog is an individual, but these breeds tend to stay calmer when left alone for moderate periods.
Why These Breeds Handle Alone Time Better
Several key traits help these dogs remain relaxed:
- Independence: They don’t rely on constant attention to feel secure.
- Adaptability: They handle new environments or changes in schedule with less stress.
- Moderate energy: They don’t become restless or destructive when activity slows down.
Still, any dog can develop anxiety if left isolated too often or without stimulation. Routine exercise, enrichment, and affection matter for every breed.
Basset Hounds: Laid-Back and Low-Stress
Basset Hounds originated in France as scent-tracking dogs. With their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and relaxed attitude, they’ve become one of the easiest breeds to live with.
- Typically weigh 50–65 lbs
- Gentle and patient with children
- Enjoy lounging but still need short daily walks
Their independence and love of sniffing make alone time easier. They tend to explore scents and nap rather than panic when you leave. Just be mindful of their weight because they love treats and naps equally!
Maltese: Small, Brave, and Self-Assured
The Maltese has been a beloved companion for over 2,000 years. Despite their delicate appearance, they’re surprisingly confident and clever.
- Usually under 7 lbs
- Playful, alert, and affectionate
- Easily trained and adaptable to apartment living
With early socialization, Maltese dogs learn that being alone is temporary and safe. Provide soft bedding, gentle background sound, and stimulating toys, and they’ll be perfectly content while you’re away.
Bichon Frise: Happy-Go-Lucky and Resilient
The Bichon Frise is famous for its fluffy coat and joyful personality. Historically kept by European nobility, these dogs learned to thrive both in luxury and in everyday family life.
- Weigh 7–12 lbs
- Sociable, gentle, and adaptable
- Excellent for first-time pet parents
Their outgoing yet stable temperament keeps them calm when alone. With regular play, short walks, and positive reinforcement, Bichons stay cheerful and balanced.
Training Tips to Prevent Separation Anxiety
Even relaxed breeds benefit from proper training. Here are a few methods I teach clients:
- Gradual Desensitization: Start by leaving for a few minutes, then slowly increase time apart.
- Counter-Conditioning: Pick up your keys or put on your coat without leaving, so these cues stop triggering anxiety.
- Distraction: Offer puzzle feeders or long-lasting chews to occupy your dog’s mind while you’re away.
- Routine: Keep feeding, walking, and bedtime schedules consistent to build trust and predictability.
Patience and consistency are everything. Celebrate calm behavior with praise or treats so your dog associates alone time with safety and comfort.
Matching the Right Dog to Your Lifestyle
Before choosing a breed, think carefully about your routine:
- How often are you home?
- Do you have kids or other pets?
- How much time can you dedicate to walks and play?
For apartment dwellers or busy professionals, smaller breeds like the Maltese or Bichon Frise can be ideal. Families with more space and a slower pace might love the easygoing Basset Hound.
The goal is a good personality fit with a relaxed, balanced dog who thrives in your environment.
How Low-Anxiety Breeds Can Improve Life
Dogs with calm, steady temperaments bring peace and joy into your home. Benefits include:
- Less barking or destructive behavior
- Easier training and smoother household routines
- More trust and emotional balance between you and your pet
- A deeper, stress-free bond built on mutual comfort
When your dog feels safe and confident, you both enjoy a better quality of life.
Holistic Support for Anxious Dogs
Even naturally calm dogs can show anxiety during big life changes. Holistic care can help restore balance. I often recommend:
- Nutritional support: Whole-food supplements for nervous system health (ask about Standard Process or MediHerb options).
- Cold laser therapy: Gentle photobiomodulation that relaxes muscles, supports circulation, and calms nervous tension.
- Customized consultation: If your dog struggles with anxiety, I offer online holistic consultations to develop a nutrition-and-lifestyle plan just for them.
Final Thoughts
Every dog deserves to feel safe, confident, and loved. Whether you choose a Basset Hound, Maltese, Bichon Frise, or another breed entirely, your calm presence, consistency, and compassion are what matter most.
If you’d like help creating a holistic plan for your dog’s emotional or physical wellbeing, you can schedule an online consultation with me at Journeys Holistic Veterinary Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breeds that usually handle alone time well include the Basset Hound, Bichon Frise, Maltese, and French Bulldog. They’re calm, independent, and adaptable.
Yes. Dogs with low separation anxiety tend to relax when you’re away. They’re ideal for people with busy schedules, as long as they still get attention and daily exercise.
It’s possible. Even calm breeds can become anxious if there’s a big change in their environment or routine. Consistent structure and gentle training help prevent this.
Start with short practice separations, use calming routines, and provide enrichment toys. Holistic therapies like cold laser or nutritional support can also help. If your dog shows signs of anxiety or stress, I can help create a holistic plan tailored to their needs. Schedule an online consult today.
Think about your lifestyle. Match the dog’s size, energy level, and grooming needs to your home and routine. A balanced, holistic approach always leads to the happiest match.
