We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
One thing you should consider is that some breeds are likely to hate being left alone for long – potentially suffering separation anxiety.
Symptoms of the condition include destructive behaviour, signs of stress, persistant howling or whining, and even stomach complaints.
Here are 13 of the breeds that are particularly susceptible to suffering from separation anxiety - pups you should avoid if you intend to regularly leave them for more than a couple of hours a day.
9. German Shepherd
German Shepherds may have a reputation as a tough working dog, but they grow very strong bonds with their owners and are surprisingly sensitive. Many owners who took their German Shepherd for extra long walks over lockdown, found that a sudden halt to them confused and upset their pet. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are perfect dogs for those living in flats but they really hate being left alone. A Chihuahuas missing human company can become destructive or even aggressive when left behind at home. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Affenpinscher
Another small breed that can suffer from separation anxiety, the Affenpinscher simply loves its owner so much that it hates to see them go. Leave them alone for long and you may well come home to a mess on the carpet as stress takes over. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Italian Greyhound
The diminutive Italian Greyhound requires surprisingly little exercise - a single runaround each day should be plenty - and so can be great pets for those who want a pet that's happy to stay indoors much of the time. Don't presume this makes them pets that can be left for long period though - do so and they are likely to become destructive, noisy and even aggressive. | Canva/Getty Images