The Impact of Virtual Calls on Dogs' Anxiety Levels
Dogs Recognize Your Voice on FaceTime—And That May Be the Problem

Image: Newsweek
While many pet owners use FaceTime to connect with their dogs during travel, experts warn that such calls may actually increase anxiety in some pets. A study found that dogs recognize their owners' voices but may become confused and frustrated when the expected physical reunion does not occur, leading to heightened emotional responses.
- 0133% of U.S. pet owners use FaceTime or video calls to check on their pets while away.
- 02A surge of 482% in Google searches for 'pet separation anxiety' indicates rising concerns among pet owners.
- 03Veterinarian Dr. Alex Crow warns that hearing a familiar voice without physical presence can create a sensory mismatch for dogs.
- 04Dogs link familiar voices to expected social interactions, which can lead to confusion and frustration when not fulfilled.
- 05Not all dogs react the same way; temperament and breed can influence their response to virtual calls.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Pet owners often turn to FaceTime to check in on their dogs while traveling, believing that a familiar voice can provide comfort. However, experts caution that this practice may inadvertently increase anxiety in some pets. A recent surge of 482% in Google searches for 'pet separation anxiety' highlights growing concerns among pet owners. A survey revealed that 33% of U.S. owners use video calls to connect with their pets, with 61% expressing more concern for their pets than for their own enjoyment during vacations. According to veterinarian Dr. Alex Crow, dogs experience the world through a combination of senses, and hearing an owner's voice without their physical presence can lead to confusion. Research indicates that dogs can recognize their owners' voices, which may trigger expectations of reunion. However, when these expectations go unfulfilled, it can lead to frustration and anxiety. Not all dogs respond the same way; factors such as temperament and breed influence their reactions. For pet owners, experts recommend keeping calls brief and calm, relying more on photo or video updates from sitters, and maintaining consistent routines to help ease their pets' anxiety.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Pet owners may inadvertently increase their dogs' anxiety levels through virtual calls, leading to behavioral issues.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you think virtual calls help or hinder pets' well-being?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




