If you adopted a puppy during the COVID-19 pandemic and are now struggling with behavioral issues as life returns to normal, you’re not alone. Many pet parents are discovering their dogs showing signs of anxiety, especially when left alone – from house-training regression to excessive barking or destructive behavior. While it might seem like your dog is acting out of spite or resentment when you leave for work, the reality is far more complex and rooted in their early development during an unprecedented time.
The Perfect Storm: How COVID Created Unique Challenges for Puppy Development
The Breeding and Shelter Crisis
When the pandemic hit, the demand for puppies skyrocketed as people sought companionship during isolation. Research indicates that pet guardianship increased by approximately 25% during this period. This sudden surge created several unprecedented challenges across both breeding and shelter systems:
Breeding Challenges:
- Reputable breeders couldn’t meet the overwhelming demand
- Less experienced or unethical breeders rushed to fill the gap
- Quality control in breeding practices often suffered
- Proper early socialization of puppies was limited by lockdown restrictions
Shelter System Impact:
- Many facilities were forced to shut down or severely limit operations
- Shelters had to rapidly move animals to foster homes due to reduced staff
- Volunteer programs were suspended, limiting available support
- Adoption processes were disrupted or halted entirely
- Even the most reputable organizations struggled to maintain normal operations
- The system was overwhelmed by demand while simultaneously dealing with reduced capacity
These factors resulted in many puppies starting life without the careful breeding practices and early exposure that help develop resilient, well-adjusted dogs, while simultaneously making it harder for people to adopt through traditional channels.
Critical Developmental Periods Interrupted
Puppies have specific developmental windows where certain experiences are crucial for their emotional and behavioral development. The pandemic severely impacted these periods:
The Primary Socialization Period (3-16-20ish weeks) During this critical time, puppies need exposure to a wide variety of experiences to develop into confident adults. So even for breeders following best practice as it related to socialization during this period, COVID restrictions severely limited these opportunities– even further affecting those puppies’ ability to process and adapt to normal life experiences later on.
The Fear Impact Periods (8-11 weeks and again during adolescence) These periods are particularly sensitive for puppies’ who are developing perception of the world around them. The unusual quiet of lockdown created a significant challenge: when life resumed, everyday sounds and experiences that would typically be familiar became novel and potentially frightening. Puppies weren’t exposed to experiences were now adults whom were being expected to consider very new things to be normal, such as:
- Busy streets and traffic sounds
- Walking through downtown spaces
- Restaurant patios
- Public gatherings
- Dog parks or group dog activities
- Shopping areas and crowds
- Being alone for long hours
- Busy holidays or visitors
This lack of exposure during critical developmental periods means many dogs today are struggling with situations we expect them to navigate somehow naturally– without any experience or a long positive history during the key time in their life when they develop these skills– puppyhood.
The Impact of Punishment-Based Training
The challenges faced by pandemic puppies can be significantly amplified when punishment-based training methods are being used. During a time when these dogs have already had limited opportunities for positive experiences in the world, the addition of aversive training tools like shock collars (often marketed as “e-collars” or “static correction”), prong collars, or choke chains can create lasting negative associations and increase anxiety symptoms long-term.
Research has consistently shown that these training methods increase rates of anxiety, fear, and aggression in dogs. For pandemic puppies, who already experienced limited socialization and exposure to the world, the impact can be particularly severe and concerning. Consider a puppy who sees another dog through the window: they’re already uncertain about this novel experience due to limited socialization, and if they receive a shock for barking or showing interest or frustration that they can not say hello– in those moments, they learn that not only is the other dog a predictor of something bad happening to them, but their natural warning signs (barking, whining) result in pain or discomfort when in their presence.
This is especially problematic when these tools are used to address anxiety-related behaviors. For instance, many people have attempted to stop their dogs from barking when left alone or when seeing triggers outside by using shock or vibration collars. This approach effectively punishes the dog for communicating their distress, leading them to suppress warning signs without addressing the underlying anxiety. As a result, these dogs often develop more severe anxiety and may eventually display their stress in other, potentially more serious ways.
The combination of:
- Limited positive experiences, especially during critical developmental periods
- Restricted opportunities for proper socialization
- The use of training methods that use fear/avoidance
- Punishment of natural warning signs and communication
Creates a perfect storm for developing severe behavioral issues that can be particularly challenging to address. One thing is for sure: these dogs don’t need more punishment. These dogs need an especially thoughtful, patient approach that focuses on building trust and creating positive associations with the things in their environment.
Environmental Sensitivity and Reactivity
Many pandemic puppies are now showing increased sensitivity to their environment in ways their families might not expect. This often manifests as reactivity – an exaggerated response to everyday stimuli that these dogs had limited exposure to during their critical developmental periods, sensitivity to things in the environment, or a difficult time recovering after a stressful event. Common triggers include:
- Dogs or people passing by the home
- Delivery personnel approaching the house
- Traffic and street sounds
- Neighbors in adjacent yards
- Other dogs during walks
- Unfamiliar objects like strollers or bicycles
- Being held, touched, or approached by new or unknown people
Some reactivity may have developed from dogs observing these stimuli from behind windows or fences during lockdown but never learning or being able to interact with them appropriately in real-world settings. The combination of limited early exposure and the safety of always viewing these triggers from behind barriers can surely create a perfect storm for reactive behavior to develop– and lack of experience can create or further fear, frustration, or arousal. The perfect storm.
The Constant Companion Effect
Many pandemic puppies also experienced an unusual amount of time with their families, creating unique challenges:
- 24/7 presence of family members became their known normal
- Limited experience with being alone
- Voices and activity in the home at it’s peak
- Intense emotional bonds formed during a stressful global situation
- Lack of practice with being alone
- Humans were constantly available to meet needs for enrichment, exercise, or mental stimulation
- The transition to being alone often came without adequate replacement activities or enrichment to fill these needs
Understanding Anxiety in Dogs: More Than Just “Bad Behavior”
Recognizing the Full Picture of Separation-Related Anxiety
Anxiety in dogs can manifest through various physical and behavioral signs that many pet guardians might not immediately recognize as stress-related. Understanding these signs is crucial for early intervention and appropriate support. Your dog may be experiencing anxiety if you notice:
Physical Signs:
- Drooling more than usual when alone or in stressful situations
- Excessive panting
- Trembling or shaking, especially before you leave
- Dilated pupils or whites of eyes showing (whale eye)
- Excessive shedding during departure routines
- Sweaty paw prints left on floors
- Changes in appetite or inability to eat, especially around or during departures
- Digestive issues including diarrhea or constipation
Behavioral Signs:
- House-training accidents that only occur when alone
- Destructive behavior focused on exit points (doors, windows)
- Repetitive behaviors like pacing or spinning
- Following family members from room to room
- Unable to settle or relax when people prepare to leave
- Excessive barking, howling, or whining when alone
- Self-harmful behaviors like excessive licking, biting or chewing their body
- Escape attempts that may result in injury
Changes in Normal Routine:
- Becoming agitated during departure cues (picking up keys, putting on shoes)
- Showing excessive excitement when people return home
- Refusing to eat when alone
- Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
- Decreased interest in normally enjoyable activities
- Reluctance to enter rooms where they’ve been left alone
Why Traditional Training Often Fall Short
Many well-meaning pet guardians attempt to address this kind of anxiety through basic training or things like a stronger crate– these things fall short as they do not address the real underlying problem. And while training is important, anxiety is a complex emotional and physiological response that often requires a more comprehensive approach. Consider this: If someone has a fear of heights, simply telling them “heights are safe” or making them stand on a tall building repeatedly won’t resolve their fear. Similarly, dogs with anxiety need a carefully planned, professional approach that addresses both the emotional and behavioral aspects of their condition.
What is Often Actually Needed
The path forward often involves a combination of:
- Professional training support to develop coping skills and confidence
- Appropriate enrichment to meet physical and mental needs
- Environmental management to prevent overwhelming experiences
- Medical support when necessary
- Education, training, consistency, and patience
- Ongoing assessment and adjustment of the plan
Support Options for Your Pandemic Puppy
Hire the Best Training Professionals
At K9 Turbo Training, we understand the unique challenges faced by pandemic puppies and their families. Our professional dog trainers in Ferndale, MI specialize in helping dogs build confidence and develop the skills they need to thrive. We currently offer:
- Private training sessions tailored to your dog’s specific needs
- Online reactive dog foundations course for dogs struggling with environmental sensitivity
- Group classes for dogs ready to work in social settings
- Specialized reactive dog training programs
- Behavior modification programs for anxiety-related issues
Our approach focuses on using positive reinforcement methods to help your dog feel more confident and comfortable in their environment while building a stronger bond with you. If you don’t train with us, be sure to find a Certified CPDT-KA trainer.
When Additional Support Is Needed
Sometimes, a comprehensive approach involving multiple professionals provides the best outcome for dogs with severe anxiety or behavioral challenges. This might include:
Working with Your Regular Veterinarian:
- Health screening to rule out medical causes
- Discussion of anxiety signs and symptoms
- Potential referrals to specialists if needed
Consulting a Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist: A board-certified veterinary behaviorist is a veterinarian who has completed additional years of specialized training in animal behavior and passed rigorous examinations. They can provide:
- Diagnosis of behavioral conditions
- Prescription of behavior-modifying medications when appropriate
- Comprehensive treatment plans
- Coordination with your regular veterinarian
Next Steps for Supporting Your Dog
If your pandemic puppy is showing signs of anxiety, reactivity, or other behavioral challenges, we’re here to help. You can:
- Sign up for a group class – Confidence building, enrichment, or manners!
- Enroll in our Online Reactive Dog Foundations course – for dogs who bark at other dogs
- Crisis Management – For people in a crisis with their dog looking for plan and support
- Contact us to learn more about our available Private training programs
Ready to start helping your pandemic puppy? Check out any of the programs above or feel free to contact us to learn more!
References
Key References on COVID-19 and Companion Animals
- Mayers R. “Dogs unleashed: The positive role dogs play during COVID-19.” Leisure Sciences. 2021;43:252–259. doi: 10.1080/01490400.2020.1774010.
- Bussolari C., Currin-McCulloch J., Packman W., Kogan L., Erdman P. “I couldn’t have asked for a better quarantine partner!”: Experiences with companion dogs during COVID-19.” Animals. 2021;11:330. doi: 10.3390/ani11020330.
- Shoesmith E., Santos de Assis L., Shahab L., et al. “The perceived impact of the first UK COVID-19 lockdown on companion animal welfare and behaviour: A mixed-method study of associations with owner mental health.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021;18:6171. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18116171.
- Bowen J., García E., Darder P., Argüelles J., Fatjó J. “The effects of the Spanish COVID-19 lockdown on people, their pets and the human-animal bond.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2020.05.013.
- Applebaum J.W., Tomlinson C.A., Matijczak A., et al. “The concerns, difficulties, and stressors of caring for pets during COVID-19: Results from a large survey of US pet owners.” Animals. 2020;10:1882. doi: 10.3390/ani10101882.
- Holland K.E., Owczarczak-Garstecka S.C., Anderson K.L., et al. “‘More attention than usual’: A thematic analysis of dog ownership experiences in the UK during the first COVID-19 lockdown.” Animals. 2021;11:240. doi: 10.3390/ani11010240.
- Morgan L., Protopopova A., Birkler R.I.D., et al. “Human–dog relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic: Booming dog adoption during social isolation.” Humanities and Social Sciences Communications. 2020;7:155. doi: 10.1057/s41599-020-00649-x.
- Scarlett J.M., Salman M.D., New J., et al. “Reasons for relinquishment of companion animals in US animal shelters: Selected health and personal issues.” Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science. 1999;2:41–57. doi: 10.1207/s15327604jaws0201_4.
COVID-19’s Impact on Puppies: Ownership, Socialization, and Behavior
- “Pandemic Puppies: Demographic Characteristics, Health, and Early Life Experiences of Puppies Acquired during the 2020 Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK.” Animals. 2023.
- “Impact of COVID-19 on Puppy Socialization and Behavior.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior. 2023.
- “Early Environment and Social Experiences of Puppies During COVID-19.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science.2022.
- “The Effects of Social Isolation on Canine Behavior.” Journal of Veterinary Medicine. 2022.
- “Is UK Puppy Purchasing Suffering a Long COVID Effect? Ongoing Negative Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic upon Puppy Purchase Motivations and Behaviours in 2021.” Animals. 2023.
- “Impacts of Puppy Early Life Experiences, Puppy-Purchasing Practices, and Owner Characteristics on Owner-Reported Problem Behaviours in a UK Pandemic Puppies Cohort at 21 Months of Age.” Animals. 2024.
- AVSAB Position Statement on Puppy Socialization. 2021.
- The Kennel Club. “The COVID-19 Puppy Boom – One in Four Admit Impulse Buying a Pandemic Puppy.” 2020. [Accessed 20 May 2020]. Available online: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media-centre/2020/august/the-covid-19-puppy-boom-one-in-four-admit-impulse-buying-a-pandemic-puppy.
- Kinsman R.H., Casey R.A., Knowles T.G., et al. “Puppy acquisition: Factors associated with acquiring a puppy under eight weeks of age and without viewing the mother.” Veterinary Record. 2020;187:112. doi: 10.1136/vr.105789.
- Wauthier L.M., Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Williams J.M. “Using the mini C-BARQ to investigate the effects of puppy farming on dog behaviour.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2018;206:75–86. doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.05.024.
