Lonely dog’s sorrowful whining is breaking neighbor’s heart

DEAR JOAN >> I’m really struggling as to what to do about a neighbor’s dog.

First, let me say the neighbor lives behind me and has always been a good and considerate neighbor. They’ve always had dogs — as have we — and they are very sweet. Over the past year, mama-dog has passed away, and they now have only one (full grown) dog who is left outside all the time.

Now, I’m sure she is well cared for — shelter, food, etc. — however, she cries and whines for several hours every day. A dog making noise doesn’t bother me; that’s what they do. I have a shepherd mix, so there is a lot of alert barking (we call it “marauders at the gate!” barking). Bark happens, but my gal is an indoor dog, so we just call her inside when she barks and all is fine.

However, it breaks my heart when I listen to their dog. It’s obvious she’s just lonely and probably a bit anxious. I’ve spoken to the neighbor briefly, and he absolutely knows this; he even said what really bothered him was all the whining. He then discussed putting a shock collar on her to minimize it. I have no idea if he did or not. I’m hoping he did not.

He mentioned how his wife has said dogs are not “lone wolves” and need company. I have had other neighbors stop by asking about the dog as everyone hears her. I considered briefly asking if she could hang out with my dog, but unfortunately my dog — a former rescue with a sad beginning — is not good with other dogs.

The neighbor dog is definitely not being abused; she’s just lonely. Do you have any suggestions? — C.N., San Jose

DEAR C. >> There are a number of reasons that dogs whine, but it sounds like in this case, it’s separation anxiety. The dog misses her companion and is unhappy and depressed about being left alone.

Getting another dog likely will help this, although you can’t always guarantee how dogs will interact with each other.

As you have a friendly relationship with your neighbors, and they already are aware of the problem and apparently willing to address it, you should have another talk. Tell them that you don’t mind the noise, it’s that the sound makes you sad for the dog. Tell them other neighbors have expressed the same thing.

If a second dog isn’t an option, there are other things they can do to improve the dog’s life, such as taking her on long walks in the morning before leaving her alone in the backyard. The walks will help to stimulate her mind, as well as tire her out. Having interactive toys in the yard can keep her occupied during the day. Toys that dispense treats as they’re played with are a good choice, too.

I know it’s not possible for your dog to have play dates, but if you’re able, you could offer to walk the dog during the day, or even take her to a dog park. Engaging with her over the fence would also help to break up her lonely day. Perhaps other neighbors would be willing to help out, too, and turn it into a neighborhood project.

The dog should eventually get over her grief, but until then, she needs help. I applaud you for being so understanding and looking for solutions rather than just being annoyed.