Dogs Sleeping Inside Houses Less Frequently Exhibit Behaviors Commonly Associated with Separation Anxiety and Aggressiveness

This study was used to evaluate whether the proximity of dogs to their human companions during sleep is associated with common problematic behaviors in canines, such as destroying objects, vocalizing excessively, urinating/defecating in inappropriate places (all when dogs are alone at home), and aggressive threats (growling or barking) and acts (biting) toward people. Over 60,000 dog keepers answered an online questionnaire that addressed where their dogs slept at night and the frequency with which they exhibited such behaviors. Except urinating/defecating in inappropriate places and biting people, other problematic behaviors were less frequent in dogs who slept inside the house. We conclude that dogs sleeping indoors (that is, closer to their keepers) less frequently exhibit aggressive threats and problematic behaviors that are commonly associated with separation anxiety.