Can French Bulldogs Be Left Alone for Long Time?

Are you wondering if it’s okay to leave your French bulldog alone for long periods of time? Well, as a Frenchie owner myself, I would say no. If you are considering buying a Frenchie but leave your house for long periods of time regularly, perhaps this breed is wrong for you. But many would argue that it really depends on your dog’s age, health, and personality. But one thing is for sure, Frenchies are bred to be companions and they thrive on human interaction, so they’re not the best breed for those who are frequently away from home.

How Clingy are French Dogs?

French bulldogs are very social, and they can become quite clingy, which can be a sign of separation anxiety. This can manifest in a variety of ways such as following their owner around the house, seeking constant attention and affection, or becoming anxious when left alone. While it’s important to give them the love, affection and attention they crave, it’s also important to provide them with some independence and alone time.

How Long can You Leave a French Bulldog Alone?

Leaving French bulldogs alone for long periods of time can be a challenge for them, as they may experience separation anxiety. I would say that because of French bulldogs’ nature, they are not good with being left along that long. It is best to not leave your Frenchie alone for more than 4-6 hours a day. If you have to be away longer, it would be best to have a sitter come by to check in on them or send them to a doggy daycare.

Do Frenchies have separation anxiety?

French Bulldogs can develop separation anxiety if they are not properly trained and socialized. Separation anxiety is a condition in which a dog becomes anxious or stressed when separated from their owner or primary caregiver. Symptoms of separation anxiety can include excessive barking, whining, chewing, digging, and attempts to escape. It is important to address this behavior early on, as it can become worse over time if left untreated. Training techniques like the ones provided above, such as positive reinforcement, desensitization and counterconditioning can be effective in treating separation anxiety in dogs.

Signs of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common issue among French Bulldogs. It’s important to recognize the signs of separation anxiety that can lead to destructive behavior and distress for both you and your pet. Understanding the signs and causes of separation anxiety can help you take the necessary steps to alleviate your French Bulldog’s stress and provide them with a happy and healthy life. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Excessive Barking or Whining

If you have a French Bulldog, you may have noticed that they bark or whine excessively when you’re getting ready to leave or after you’ve left. This is a common sign of separation anxiety, which means your furry friend is feeling anxious or stressed about being separated from you. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, this is a common behavior that many French bulldog owners experience. The most important thing is to understand that this behavior is not something that should be ignored or punished, but rather a sign that your furry friend needs some extra help to feel more comfortable when left alone.

Attempts at Escape

You may have noticed that your furry friend tries to escape when you leave, whether it’s by digging at the carpet, the door, or chewing on the windows. This behavior may seem like your pet is just being mischievous or trying to get back at you, but it’s actually a sign of separation anxiety.

Destructive Behaviors

You may have come home to find that your Frenchie has destroyed your favorite pair of shoes or chewed up your couch cushions. This type of destructive behavior can be frustrating and costly, but it’s important to understand that it’s a sign of separation anxiety. When your French Bulldog is left alone, they may become anxious and stressed, and they may not know how to cope with those feelings. They may turn to destructive behavior as a way to release that stress and anxiety. It’s not that they’re trying to be disobedient or spiteful, but they are expressing their emotional state in the only way they know how. It’s important to remember that this is not a behavior to be punished, but rather a sign that your furry friend needs extra help and attention to feel more comfortable when left alone.

Using the Potty in the House

It’s understandable that you may feel upset or confused when you come home to find your French Bulldog has had an accident, even though they are house-trained. It’s important to understand that this is not a sign of disobedience or lack of training, but rather a physical manifestation of their emotional state. When your French Bulldog is left alone, they may become anxious and stressed, and this can cause them to lose control of their bladder or bowel. It’s important to remember that this is not a behavior to be punished, but rather a sign that your furry friend needs extra help and attention to feel more comfortable when left alone.

Pacing Around

You may have noticed that your furry companion tends to wander around the house when you’re getting ready to leave or after you’ve left. This may be worrisome, but it is a common sign of separation anxiety. Your French bulldog may feel anxious and stressed when left alone which results in pacing back and forth. This may be their own way of coping with the stress.

Change in Eating Habits

Have you noticed a change in their eating habits? Has your Frenchie lost his or her appetite or refuse to eat their meals? This could be a sign of separation anxiety. The stress and anxiousness of being left along could affect their appetite and digestion leading them to lose their interest in food.

Lethargic or Lack of Interest

Is your French bulldog acting completely different than usual? Are they less active or less interested in their normal activities? Do they seem more lethargic and no longer interested in their favorite toys or activities? If their behavior is going against the norm and not sick, they may be suffering from depression due to separation anxiety if you are leaving them often.

Excessive Salivation or Drooling

When French bulldog is feeling anxious or stressed, they may produce more saliva or drool as a physical response to their emotional state. This could be seriously disturbing and you may worry about underlying health problems. This excessive salivation or drooling can be a sign that they are feeling anxious or stressed. OfCourse this can be a sign of other health problems such as dental issues, gastrointestinal problems, or other underlying medical conditions as well. It is important to rule out any other causes and consult with your vet.

Just like all dogs, Frenchies need socialization, mental stimulation, and daily exercise to be happy and healthy. And because they have strong bonds with their owners and a history as a companion breed, they’re especially prone to separation anxiety. So, if you have to leave your Frenchie alone for longer periods of time, it’s important to take steps to ensure their well-being.

Here are some tips to help:

• Gradually increase the amount of time your Frenchie spends alone. If your dog is not used to being alone, it can be stressful for them to suddenly be left alone for long periods of time. Gradually increasing the amount of time they spend alone can help them become more comfortable with being alone.
• Provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Before you leave, make sure your Frenchie has plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained. This can include puzzle toys, chew toys, and interactive toys. You should also make sure your Frenchie has access to a secure outdoor space where they can exercise and explore.
• Consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter. If you are unable to come home during the day to check on your Frenchie or able to take him or her with you, hiring a professional dog walker or pet sitter can provide them with the socialization and exercise they need.
• Make sure your Frenchie has a comfortable space. Your Frenchie should have a quiet, comfortable place to rest while you are away. This can be a crate or a designated room in your home. Make sure their space is equipped with everything they need, including food, water, and a comfortable bed.
• Consider getting a second dog. If you are frequently away from home and your Frenchie is struggling to cope with being alone, getting a second dog can provide them with the companionship they need. Keep in mind that adding a second dog to your household is a significant commitment and requires careful planning and consideration.
• Some may suggest putting your Frenchie on medication for anxiety. I am not so sure about this myself. This is something that you have to research and make your own decisions about.

Final Thoughts

It can be hard to see your beloved pet in distress, but it’s important to understand that this behavior is a sign that they need help. It’s not fair to leave them alone feeling that way when they need your attention, love and guidance. Separation anxiety is a serious issue and should be addressed as soon as possible. You can help your French Bulldog overcome this anxiety and become comfortable to enjoy their alone time.