Dogs are highly affectionate creatures who can’t last a second without attention. Their strong bond with us makes them feel our absence more often than we could ever realize. The moment we head off to work, school, or some activity without them, they start missing us.

But how do you know if your dog misses you for sure? While they can’t tell us through words, dogs show their feelings through their body language, habits, and behaviors. In this blog, we’ll talk about the 10 common signs that your dog misses you.

Do Dogs Really Miss Their Owners?

But wait, do dogs really miss us? The short answer is yes. There have been several scientific studies and observations on dogs that form deep emotional bonds with their owners, much like how a child bonds with their parents.

They’re also naturally social creatures who see people as their family. This is why you might notice that they wait by doors, whine, or even sleep near you. 

Dogs can perceive time, but not like how we humans do. They rely heavily on scent and routines. When your scent fades away from the environment, the longer you’re away, dogs will notice this change. 

They also pick up on cues, such as light, to estimate the time you leave and arrive home. Plus, dogs have a circadian rhythm that tells them when it’s time for sleep, hunger, and other needs, which helps distinguish the time of day.

It’s also important to separate missing you from separation anxiety. Dogs will show some form of sadness when they miss you, but will be outright destructive, restless, and nervous when they have separation anxiety.

10 Signs Your Dog Misses You​

If you’re thinking that your dog misses you, look out for these common signs to be sure. 

1. Waiting by the Door or Window

One of the most obvious signs that your dog misses you is when they stay by the door or sit by the window around the time you usually come home. Dogs can quickly learn your routines, which means they’ll be expecting you to walk through around this time.

This behavior shows that they’re awaiting your return. However, if there are any scratch marks on the doors or window frames, then this might be more than simple longing. 

2. Sleeping on Your Things

Dogs have incredibly strong senses of smell. This means that they’ll be able to pick up your scent from your belongings, such as clothes, bags, and bedding. Because of this, dogs will usually stay close to your things whenever you’re away. It’s their way of feeling close to you. 

Also, some dogs will wander around the house, trying to sniff around and check your usual spots. It’s like they’re trying to find traces of your presence all over the house. 

3. Eating Less or Skipping Meals

Like humans, dogs can lose their appetites whenever they get sad or lonely. If you find that your dog’s bowl still has some food despite being gone for the whole day, then it’s a sign. However, take note of the instances. If this goes on for long, then it might be something more concerning.

4. Clingy Behavior 

Because they miss you so much, dogs will be extra affectionate and clingy whenever you arrive home. Many dogs will stick close to their owners for some time after coming home. It’s like they’re trying to make up for the lost time by being extra affectionate.

5. Destructive Tendencies

Some dogs can be destructive when they are left alone, which is something more than just simple missing. You can expect destroyed furniture, scratched doors, or ripped cushions all over the house. 

Look for where the destruction is. If they are near the area where you exit, it’s a sign that either your dog misses you or is having separation anxiety.