Do Dogs Miss Their Owners?

Yes, dogs can indeed miss their owners. The bond that forms between a dog and their human companions is profound and often goes beyond our understanding. When a dog is separated from its owner, it can exhibit signs of distress or longing, indicating a deep emotional connection.

Dogs and Human Bonds

Humans and dogs have coexisted for thousands of years, and during this time, the way dogs form attachments has evolved to be one of the most recognized and studied phenomena in the animal kingdom. Dogs, like humans, form strong emotional bonds and can experience feelings of loss, joy, and distress in response to their owners' actions and departures.

Sep. Anxiety: The Tale of My Belgian Malinois

My last dog, a Belgian Malinois, suffered from separation anxiety. Every time I left the house, she would howl as if she was in great pain. Even when I stayed with my father due to his dementia, my mother would sometimes arrange for another person to stay with him so she could take me to the doctor. When they were gone, my dog would stay by the kitchen door, waiting for my return. She definitely missed me, and this is a common sign in dogs suffering from separation anxiety.

Real-life Example: Rony the Reliant

In a heart-wrenching incident in the Makariv Kyiv region, a dog named Rony has been sitting by a front door for a month after his owner, Tetiana, was brutally killed by Russian invaders. He now stays by her grave in the backyard, refusing to leave. This dog is waiting for his beloved owner, and Rony's story melts many hearts. Such devotion is a testament to the power of the bond between a dog and its owner.

Wait and Worry: My Working Sheepdog’s Loyalty

My sister shares a profound example of a dog's attachment to its owner. If I’m not home by dark, my sheepdog will get down and mope around, clearly showing signs of distress. This dog waits in front of the window until I get home, acting as though I’ve been away for days. Dogs like these are not just pets but companions that rely on their owners for emotional support.

A Personal Connection: Boo the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

I have a deep affection for English Staffordshire bull terriers, which I raised with a couple. Though I cannot have one of my own due to current circumstances, I remain in touch with my friend and her exceptional canine companion, Boo. This Staffordshire bull terrier, so trained that she rarely asks to sit on strangers' laps, greeted me with familiar and enthusiastic behavior after a long time apart. The memory of this encounter is a powerful reminder of the deep emotional connection and memory these dogs possess.

Conclusion

No matter the dog's breed or the history of their relationship, dogs can indeed miss their owners. This is a truth supported by the many stories of loyalty and attachment that showcase the profound bond between humans and dogs. Supporting this bond, providing a consistent routine, and fostering a familiar environment can help ease the transition when a dog changes homes.

Check out my Quora profile for more insights on dog behavior and attachment.