Things That Break Your Dog's Heart When You're On Vacation

Pets each have their own unique personality, but one trait they usually all have in common is that they see their owner as a best friend and trusted caregiver. Dogs, in particular, are known for being loyal to a fault to their human companions, so when you go on vacation without them, it may be a bigger deal than you think.

Sometimes, pet parents are able to take their furry friends with them when they go away — think, family road trip! But often, taking a dog to exotic locales that involve flying or complicated logistics is just not in the cards. While you may understand what's going on, your dog most definitely doesn't. All they know is that you've disappeared, and their little world has been shaken up now that you're gone.

What exactly are the main things that might break your dog's heart while you're off enjoying yourself? Cuteness spoke exclusively with Russell Hartstein, a certified dog behaviorist who offers dog training services in Los Angeles, and compiled the top three examples that you may want to keep in mind.

Dogs thrive on routine, so once you step out that door with your bags packed, things change for them — especially if they've been left at a boarding facility. Not only are they in unfamiliar territory with unfamiliar people and other dogs that could make them shy and not go as planned (like this German shepherd's first day of daycare), they also don't know why you left them there or whether you are coming back.

Russell Hartstein spoke with Cuteness on why this may be. "Dogs don't do well in traditional daycares or boarding facilities where there's many dogs present and the carousel of rotating people caring for them." Instead, he says, "Dogs do best with familiar people, in one-on-one settings, and where the person understands the pet's needs intimately."

That's why in-home pet-sitting has become increasingly popular, as it's considered less stressful because the pet stays in their familiar environment. If you're interested in hiring a pet-sitter but aren't sure what to look for, here are some questions to ask potential pet-sitters before hiring them.

No matter who takes care of your pup while you're away, there will most likely be some major changes to their routine — and most dogs don't like that, especially when piled on top of you being nowhere in sight.

Hartstein advises, "Regardless of who you choose, make sure they are able to meet your pet's needs and try to mimic your pet's routine as much as possible to reduce stress." Still, despite a short-term caregiver's best efforts, there will surely be disruptions in the duration and frequency of feedings, walks and exercise, and play time, with some pups handling these shake-ups better than others.

The ones who don't handle it as well might show signs of separation anxiety or even depression while you are away. So, it's best to always check in on your beloved companion and stay in contact with whoever is watching your pet to help guide them through any difficult scenarios.

Even if your dog is staying with someone they know and trust or has a familiar person checking in on them while you're away, they still surely miss the love, affection, and attention they get from you.

From pets and kisses to belly rubs and baby talk, you are the person who best knows how to greet and comfort your dog. Of course, they are hopefully getting some of this from their short-term caretaker while you're away — and let's face it, some dogs think there's nothing better than staying with grandma — but fully expect your pup to be so excited when you get home that they just might pee!

Want to see some adorable reactions from dogs when their owners return home? Watch these dachshund puppies reunite with mom after two weeks, and these goldendoodles waiting at the door on two legs to welcome mom home.