The Effects of Isolation on Dogs

Dogs are pack animals that thrive on social interactions with people and other animals. A healthy, well-adjusted dog is stress free, in good physical health, shows species-typical behaviors and handles environmental stimuli. However, social isolation is detrimental to a dog's psychological well-being. Dogs kept in social isolation have a range of maladaptive behaviors. This is common in shelter dogs, tethered dogs or dogs left alone all day.

  1. Barking

    • Dogs communicate by barking. Dogs bark to defend their territory or in the presence of danger. However, dogs kept in social isolation bark out of frustration. Persistent, compulsive barking is a sign a dog is bored or lonely. This is often seen in shelter dogs, tethered dogs or dogs left alone all day. This form of barking is often accompanied by destructive behavior, pacing and elimination.

    Depression

    • Dogs can have signs of depression just like humans. Signs of depression in dogs include becoming withdrawn and changes in eating and sleeping habits, according to John Ciribassi, DVM, past president of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. They become listless and may suck or chew on themselves. Dogs kept in social isolation are prone to depression.

    Hyperkinesis

    • Dogs that cannot sit still, are highly excitable or suddenly turn vicious are called aggressive and are often euthanized. They may be suffering from hyperkinesis, a behavioral condition characterized by hyperactive behavior. This condition is often seen in dogs in social isolation. Signs that a dogs has hyperkinesis include excessive saliva, high metabolic rate, rapid heart rate and respiration and reduced urine output.

    Isolation Syndrome

    • Dogs housed in social isolation are subject to isolation syndrome. Studies conducted at the University of Georgia Department of Medical Microbiology showed caged dogs changed position frequently by crawling, running or walking; vocalized more often by barking, growling, howling, whining or yelping; and groomed excessively by biting self, licking, scratching and shaking.