Leaving Your Dog Home Alone
We’d love to spend every minute with our furry friends but life gets in the way and we have to be away for hours. Whether you’re new to this or a seasoned dog owner, making sure your dog is comfortable, safe and happy while you work is key.
The reality is most of us don’t have the luxury of working from home every day or bringing our dogs to the office. So how do we get the balance right? Let’s get into the nitty gritty of leaving your dog at home alone and how you can make this separation as stress free as possible for you and your dog.
The Realities – Adult Dogs
Dogs, like people, have different needs depending on their age, breed and personality. For example an older dog may enjoy alone time and sleep through most of the day, a young puppy might struggle with separation anxiety and develop destructive behaviour if left alone for too long. Understanding your dog’s individual needs is key to their well being while you’re away.
For example some breeds are more prone to separation anxiety than others. Breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and can get anxious if left alone for too long.
Basset Hounds and Greyhounds
Basset Hounds and Greyhounds are more independent and might handle alone time better. But every dog is an individual so observe your dog’s behaviour and tailor your approach accordingly.
Making it Safe and Comfortable
Leaving your dog at home doesn’t mean you have to be worried all the time. By preparing their environment you can make sure they have a safe, stimulating and comfortable space to spend the day.
Choose the Right Space: Where do you leave a dog while you work? You need to designate a specific area in your home that’s dog proof. Whether it’s a big room, a gated off section of the house or a cozy crate the space needs to feel safe and comfortable for your dog.
Crate train – If you’re crate training make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. This creates a den like environment that will calm them. If your dog prefers more freedom a dog safe room where they can move around but stay out of trouble is ideal.
Comfort Items
Add some familiar items to their space—like a favourite chew toy, a blanket with your scent or even a pet camera. Pet cameras with two way audio are super handy because you can check in on your dog and even talk to them during the day.
These little extras can make a big difference in helping your dog feel less anxious and more relaxed when they’re home alone. If your dog has a favourite spot to relax like a comfy bed or a specific corner of the room make sure that’s part of their designated area.
Background Noise: Leave some background noise on like a calming playlist or a TV show. For some dogs the sound of human voices or soft music can create a comforting atmosphere that helps them self soothe and reduce separation anxiety.
There’s even research that says classical music can calm dogs. So if you’re worried your dog will be too quiet or lonely try leaving on a pet friendly radio station or a TV show with lots of dialogue. The constant sound will be comforting and your dog will feel like they’re not completely alone.
The Importance of Routine
Dogs love routine and consistency is key when you leave your dog at home while you’re at work. A predictable schedule will help your dog know when to relax and when you’ll be back. A daily routine that involves exercise, feeding and alone time will make your dog feel more secure and reduce any anxiety they may feel when you’re not around.
Morning Routine
Start the day with a long walk to tire your dog out. A tired dog is a calm dog and that exercise can help them sleep soon after you leave.
Make sure they’ve had a potty break so they don’t have an accident during the day. Depending on your dog’s age and energy level this can be a 20 minute brisk walk to an hour long adventure. The goal is to get them moving and burn off some energy before you head out the door.
Dog Walker
Mid-Day Breaks: If possible arrange for a dog walker to visit your dog during the day. This can include a short walk, some playtime and another potty break. It’s a great way to break up the day and gives your dog something to look forward to.
Not everyone can come home for lunch but hiring a dog walker is a great investment. A mid-day visit doesn’t just give your dog a chance to stretch their legs it also gives them social interaction and mental stimulation. Even 30 minutes can make a big difference especially for younger or more active dogs.
Evening Routine
Once you’re home spend quality time with your dog. A long walk, some playtime or even a cuddle session on the couch will help bond with your dog and make up for the hours you were apart. This time together is key for your dog’s mental and emotional well-being.
Separation Anxiety and Behavioral Issues
Recognizing the Signs
Leaving your dog at home can sometimes lead to separation anxiety especially in younger dogs or those with a history of being overly attached.
Signs of separation anxiety can be excessive barking, destructive behavior or even going potty inside the house despite being fully house trained. Recognizing these signs early on will help you take steps to alleviate your dog’s anxiety before it becomes a bigger issue.
Steps to Alleviate Separation Anxiety
Gradually Increase Alone Time: If you’re introducing your dog to being home alone start by leaving them for short periods and gradually increase the time you’re away.
This will help them get used to the idea without feeling abandoned. Start with something as simple as leaving the house for a few minutes to run an errand and gradually increase the time as your dog becomes more comfortable.
This is often referred to as “desensitization” and is especially effective for anxious dogs. It’s like teaching them that your absence isn’t something to fear and you will always come back.
Practice Calm Departures and Arrivals
When leaving or arriving home stay calm and don’t make a big deal. This will teach your dog that your coming and going is part of the daily routine and not something to get anxious about. Dogs pick up on our emotions so if you’re anxious or over excited when you leave your dog will be too.
In our house we’ve made it a rule to not make a big fuss when we say goodbye. When I leave for work I say a quick calm goodbye, and when I get home I wait a few minutes before I greet her. This helps keep her calm and reduces the anxiety build up throughout the day.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for calm behavior with treats or affection when you get home. This positive reinforcement will help them associate alone time with something good and reduce anxiety. Over time your dog will learn that being alone isn’t something to be afraid of and good things happen when they’re calm.
Considering Doggie Daycare
For some dog breeds especially those that are highly social or anxious doggy daycare might be a better option for both you and your four legged friend during your busy life may enjoy spending time with other dogs instead of being home alone for long hours. Doggy daycares offer a chance for your dog to interact with other pets, puppies and provides a front door for you to safely leave for longer periods to play in a supervised environment and even get some training.
However not all dogs are suited for doggy daycare. Some breeds or older dogs might prefer the quiet of home to the chaos of daycare. Always consider your dog’s personality and energy levels when deciding if doggy daycare is the right fit.
Doggy daycare can be a great option for dogs that need a lot of social interaction or have high energy levels. For example my friend Jane’s Labrador Charlie absolutely loves daycare. He loves playing with other dogs and the physical activity helps him be calm and content at home. But if your dog is more introverted or easily overwhelmed a quiet day at home might be a better choice.
Its The FAQ!
Where do I leave my dog while I’m at work?
Leave your dog in a dog safe area where they feel secure. This could be a dedicated room, a gated off section of your house or a well sized crate if your dog is crate trained. The space should be comfortable with access to water, toys and a bed or blanket.
Is it okay to leave my dog at home while I’m at work?
Yes it is okay to leave your dog at home while at work as long as they’re properly prepared and comfortable. Make sure they have a safe space, mental stimulation and access to a potty area and consider a mid day break.
Can dogs be left alone for 10 hours?
Leaving a dog alone for 10 hours is not ideal especially for younger or high energy dogs. Adult dogs might manage but it’s important to consider a mid day visit from a dog walker or neighbor to give them a break.
Is it cruel to leave a dog all day?
Leaving a dog all day without any breaks or mental stimulation is cruel. Dogs are social animals that need interaction, exercise and mental engagement. Long periods of isolation can lead to behavioral problems and anxiety.
Can I leave my dog for 8 hours while I’m at work?
Yes many dog owners leave their dogs for 8 hours while at work but make sure they have everything they need to be comfortable. Consider a mid day potty break and make sure your dog is well exercised before you leave.
Is it okay to crate my dog while I’m at work?
It’s okay to crate your dog while you’re at work as long as they are crate trained and comfortable in the crate. The crate should be a safe den like environment where your dog can relax. However crating should not exceed 8 hours without a break.
Is it okay to leave my dog in a crate for 8 hours?
Leaving a dog in a crate for 8 hours is generally okay for crate trained dogs but should be the maximum duration. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before and after crate time and consider a break during the day.
Can I leave my dog in my room while I’m at work?
Yes leaving your dog in a dog safe room while you’re at work is a good alternative to crating. Make sure the room is dog proofed and provide your dog with toys, water and a comfortable place to rest.
Summary: Making Your Dog’s Alone Time Stress Free
Leaving a dog home alone while at work can be tough but with the right preparation it can be done. Knowing your dog’s needs, creating a safe and comfortable environment and establishing a routine are the key to making your dog happy and secure while you’re away.
Whether it’s through crate training, pet cameras or a dog walker there are many ways to make your dog’s alone time less stressful. Remember every dog is different so tailor your approach to what works for you and your fur baby. With the right strategies you can leave home guilt free knowing your dog is in good hands – yours.
