8 Signs Your Dog Needs More Attention From You

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Akita dog with a person.
Zen Chung/Pexels

Dogs are loyal companions who thrive on attention. Just like humans, they can sometimes show signs that they need more interaction. If your dog’s behavior seems off, it could be because they’re asking for more of your time and affection. Being aware of these signs helps you connect with your furry friends and ensures they stay happy and healthy. Here are 8 signs your dog might be craving more attention and ways you can offer them the care they need to feel secure and loved.

1. Excessive Barking Or Whining

Goldendoodle barking.
Dahancoo/Pixabay

If your dog is barking or whining excessively, it may be trying to grab your attention. While barking is normal, an increase in this behavior often signals boredom or anxiety. Dogs are social creatures who require mental stimulation and physical activity. If your dog feels overlooked or neglected, they might become vocal to express frustration or seek reassurance. Ensuring regular exercise, playtime, and training sessions can help ease these behaviors. Additionally, offering more interactive time with your dog will strengthen your bond and help reduce their need to vocalize excessively for attention.

2. Destructive Behavior

Shih Tzu puppy playing with a toy.
Hannah Barata/Pexels

Destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or shoes typically indicates your dog is seeking more attention. Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation, and when they don’t get enough of either, they may engage in chewing, digging, or similar activities. These actions are often the result of boredom or anxiety, especially if your dog is left alone for extended periods. If left unchecked, destructive habits may develop into more serious issues. To prevent this, ensure regular walks, interactive play, and training sessions to keep your dog’s mind and body engaged, reducing the need for negative behaviors.

3. Increased Clinginess

Shiba Inu dog being held by a person.
Sam Lion/Pexels

If your dog is suddenly more clingy than usual, it could be a sign they need more attention. Dogs naturally form strong bonds with their owners and seek comfort when feeling insecure. Increased clinginess may stem from anxiety, loneliness, or stress. When dogs feel overlooked, they may stick to you for reassurance and security. Additionally, clingy behavior can indicate separation anxiety if they become anxious when you’re out of sight. Offering more one-on-one time and reassurance, as well as maintaining a consistent routine, will help alleviate these feelings and reduce their need to stay by your side constantly.

4. Loss Of Appetite Or Sudden Weight Changes

Mixed breed dog eating from a bowl.
Cottonbro studio/Pexels

A sudden change in your dog’s eating habits, whether loss of appetite or overeating, can signal emotional distress. Dogs that feel ignored, stressed, or anxious may lose interest in food or eat more than usual as a way to cope. If your dog is suddenly not eating or overindulging, they may be feeling mentally or emotionally off. Paying attention to these changes can help you spot underlying issues that might be related to emotional needs rather than health concerns. Providing more time together and addressing their emotional well-being can help restore normal eating patterns.

5. Aggression Or Growling

Pug dog growling.
Alexas Fotos/Pexels

If your dog suddenly starts growling or showing aggression, it could indicate they feel neglected or overwhelmed. Dogs can become frustrated when they aren’t getting enough attention, exercise, or socialization. This frustration may manifest as aggression or growling, especially if your dog is feeling anxious or stressed. Dogs that don’t receive adequate stimulation often express irritation through behaviors like snapping or growling. Regular play, consistent training, and positive reinforcement can help address these behavioral shifts by reducing underlying anxiety and frustration. Ensuring your dog feels secure and mentally stimulated is crucial to maintaining a calm, well-behaved companion.

6. Changes In Sleeping Patterns

Puggle puppy sleeping on a carpet.
Torsten Dettlaff/Pexels

If your dog’s sleeping patterns suddenly change, it may indicate a need for more attention. Dogs typically stick to a routine, so disruptions in their sleep schedule may signal emotional distress or boredom. Excessive sleep could mean they’re feeling down or unfulfilled due to a lack of engagement. On the other hand, restlessness or an inability to relax might signal anxiety. Ensuring your dog receives plenty of physical and mental stimulation during the day can help them unwind and sleep better at night. Keep an eye on their sleep patterns, as changes can sometimes signal health concerns.

7. Lack Of Interest In Playtime

Border Collie dog carrying a frisbee.
Brixiv/Pexels

Playtime is crucial for your dog’s well-being. If they suddenly lose interest in games they once loved, like fetch or tug-of-war, it could indicate they need more attention. Dogs require both physical and mental stimulation, and a lack of it may cause them to become disengaged or even depressed. If your dog pulls away from play, they may feel ignored or overwhelmed. Spend more time playing with your dog, introduce new activities, and ensure regular interaction. Reconnecting through play strengthens your bond and helps maintain your happiness and enthusiasm for life.

8. Changes In Bathroom Habits

Golden Retriever dog sitting on a leash in a forest.
Johann/Pexels

Changes in bathroom habits, such as accidents indoors or frequent urination, may signal your dog needs more attention. Dogs thrive on routines, and disruptions can cause stress. If your dog suddenly starts having accidents or shows unusual bathroom behavior, it could indicate emotional distress or a lack of attention. Additionally, frequent accidents may suggest anxiety, especially if they occur when you’re not around. It’s essential to provide more time and interaction with your dog and maintain a consistent bathroom routine. If the behavior persists, consulting a vet can help identify any underlying health concerns.

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