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Dogs are social animals that are capable of forming strong bonds with humans and other dogs and animals. They can remember human relationships and start to miss significant people in their lives, although it’s uncertain how long this will last. So, it’s very possible for your dog to miss your ex, especially if they shared a strong and positive relationship.
Changes in your relationships with others can affect your dog, especially if those changes mean limiting their contact with a person. Here’s what you need to know about human-canine bonds and how you can tell if your dog is missing someone.
A Dog’s Memory
It may seem like dogs just live in the present moment, but they’re actually capable of memory recall and having long-term memory. Research also suggests that dogs have something similar to episodic memory, which is the ability to remember specific past events.1
Therefore, your dog may store both positive and negative memories of your ex and other significant people in your life. The types of memories will affect how your dog perceives and remembers a person.
For example, if your ex was an active part of your dog’s life and enjoyed playing with your dog and caring for them, it’s most likely that your dog has a strong and positive relationship with your ex. In contrast, if your ex had been aloof with your dog, your dog’s memory of your ex would be more indifferent.
Dogs are also very sensitive to changes in their routine. Your ex may have played a significant role in their routine if they fed them, went on walks, or played with them regularly. In such cases, your dog will definitely notice if your ex is no longer around.
The 4 Signs a Dog Is Missing a Person
While we don’t know a dog’s exact range and depths of emotions, we do suspect that dogs can feel sadness and grief.2 In extreme cases, dogs can experience separation anxiety when they’re away from an important person in their lives.
Of course, your dog won’t verbally tell you that they miss your ex, but there are still ways you can tell if a dog is missing someone. Each dog will have individualized expressions of sadness, but there are some common behaviors all dogs can display. Here are some ways you can tell if your dog is missing your ex.
1. Waiting by the Door
In the initial stages, your dog may feel confused and start to wait by the door as they expect your ex to return home. They may also become restless and search around the house multiple times in an attempt to find your ex.
2. Decreased or Slower Activity
Dogs that miss a companion can start to slow down and disengage from activities they once enjoyed. They may not be enthusiastic about playing fetch or with their favorite toys. Some dogs may have decreased appetite or even refuse to eat.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns
You may also notice changes in sleep patterns. In most cases, dogs will sleep more when they’re depressed. However, some dogs may develop insomnia. When dogs are grieving the loss of a companion, they can also change their sleeping spot and choose to sleep in a different area of the house.
4. Changes in Vocalization
You may notice either increased or decreased vocalization from your dog. Some dogs will become quieter when they’re feeling sad, while others might start to whine more frequently. Your dog may also whine to get your attention and go outside so that they can search for your ex.
How to Help Your Dog Through Relationship Changes
Changes in your relationships are often felt by your dog. It’s possible for your dog to feel sad and miss your ex, and it’s important to understand that your dog can feel stressed and need some time to adjust to changes.
One way you can help your dog is to spend extra time with them. They may not want to engage in strenuous activity and will be more likely to prefer a longer walk. You can even try to take them to new places to encourage them to explore and enjoy a change in scenery.
Your dog will also appreciate a little extra care and attention during this time. Give them more pets or talk to them more frequently in a reassuring tone. If your dog is social, they might enjoy having more friends visit and hang out with them.
In some cases dogs may need support from over the counter calming aids or even veterinary medications. So if you are concerned at all about how your dog is coping now things have changed at home, make an appointment to see your vet.
Final Thoughts
Your dog will notice relationship changes, and they’ll miss your ex if they shared an amicable bond. It can take some time for your dog to get used to sudden changes, and they’ll require a little extra attention while they adjust. Tending to your dog is also often a good reminder to also tend to yourself. It’s important to show both your dog and yourself extra care and kindness after a relationship fallout, and you can support each other as you experience changes in your relationships.
Featured Image Credit: on to the stock, Shutterstock
