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Why won't my dog come inside, eat, or stop hiding since husband left?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Female | unspayed | 64 lbs

my female dog had a litter a year ago we kept 2 of the 4 pups here too as well as the father and our 14 year old rescue jug My hubby has gone back to work out of town in the last couple months after being home for most of her life PROBLEM is just this last 2 weeks she refuses to come inside unless I bring her in on lead and eats and drinks minimally when he's gone Idk if she poops Hides in spaces for hours UTD on shots not fixed

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2019

It sounds like Hayley is missing your husband. If she is hiding a lot, and also is not eating and drinking much at all, it would be best to have her evaluated by your vet to make sure there's no medical explanation for her change in behavior that needs to be addressed. If her physical exam and any tests (blood tests, etc) that your vet recommends are all normal, then we would say that, yes--this is a behavioral problem. If that is the case, it may help to consult with a behaviorist and trainer; however here's a few things you can try at home. -if she's more bonded to him than you, work on forging that bond with you more. Keep treats that she likes in your pocket. Take her for walks. Give her one on one attention away from the other dogs. This might help. -Do all the dogs get along? If so, try to help engage play between to the dogs to help keep her engaged. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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