Leaving a dog home alone for long periods of time is a common concern for many pet owners. While some dogs do well when left alone for 8-10 hours, others may develop separation anxiety or negative behaviors if left for more than just a few hours. There are a few key factors to consider when determining the appropriate amount of time to leave your dog home alone.
Age of the Dog
Puppies and younger dogs generally have less self-control and may not do as well when left alone for an extended period of time. Puppies under 6 months should not be left alone for more than 2-3 hours as they need more frequent bathroom breaks, feeding, and socialization during this developmental stage.
Adolescent dogs between 6 months and 2 years old may be able to last a bit longer, but should not be left for more than 4-5 hours regularly. Their energy level and curiosity make them more prone to getting into mischief when bored or left alone too long.
Adult dogs over 2 years old are better able to control themselves and hold their bladders for longer periods of time. Healthy adult dogs can typically be left alone for 6-8 hours, although more active or high energy dogs may need some stimulus to tide them over during the day.
Dog’s Personality and Activity Level
A dog’s individual personality and activity level should factor into how long they can be left alone. Layback or senior dogs are likely to sleep through most of the day anyway, and may do fine being left 8-10 hours. However, young high energy dogs who crave constant stimulation fare better with another pet at home or a pet sitter that comes in halfway through the day.
Dogs who tend to get into trash, chew, or bark excessively when bored or stressed are also poor candidates for being left 10 hours or more on their own. Their behavior may escalate rapidly when left alone too long without an outlet for their energy.
Dog’s Training and Housebreaking Status
Partially housebroken or untrained dogs may not do well when left unsupervised for 6-8 hours. Without anyone to take them outside frequently, they are likely to have accidents. Untrained dogs are also more prone to getting into mischief like shredding pillows or knocking over the trash can when extremely bored and under-stimulated.
On the other hand, fully housebroken adult dogs who are well-trained and accustomed to being crated are better equipped to handle longer durations alone. Their training helps them control their bladder and refrain from destructive behaviors even when bored.
Health Considerations
Dogs with health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or bowel incontinence may need let out more frequently than every 8-10 hours. Senior dogs are also more prone to having potty accidents and should be let out at least every 6-8 hours. Limiting water intake and making sure potty walks are done before leaving can help accommodate their needs.
Puppies under 6 months should never be crated for more than 2-3 hours as they cannot control their bladders and bowels sufficiently. If they are crated too long when young, it can lead to detrimental effects on their housebreaking.
Providing Stimulation and Exercise
Making sure your dog gets sufficient physical and mental exercise is key to keeping them happy and well-behaved when left alone for extended periods. Aim for at least 60 minutes of activity split up into two 30 minutes walks. High energy breeds like huskies or Labradors may need even more daily exercise.
Provide interactive puzzle toys, a stuffed Kong, or chew toys to keep your dog stimulated and engaged when left alone during the day. Rotate the toys to keep it interesting and refreshing.
Gradually Building Up Tolerance
Dogs are adaptable, but leaving them alone for 10 hours right away can be problematic. Gradually get them used to being alone by first leaving for short durations like 1-2 hours, then building up to 4-6 hours at a time. Varying your routine and schedule can also help prevent clinging behavior or refusal to leave.
Using a Pet Sitter or Doggy Daycare
For dogs that get anxious when left alone all day or have high energy levels, a pet sitter or doggy daycare can be ideal. Pet sitters can come in halfway through the day to take your dog out, feed them, and provide companionship and playtime.
Doggy daycares offer constant supervision, playgroup time for socialization, and mental stimulation that tires dogs out. They may be the best solution for dogs that do not do well being left alone for 8-10 hours.
Using Crates Safely
When used properly, crates can be an effective tool for leaving dogs home alone for reasonable durations. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around in. Place cushy blankets and a few safe chew toys inside to keep them comfortable and occupied.
Never crate a dog for excessively long periods that exceed their bladder control capabilities. Doing so can lead to inhumane conditions and negative associations with being crated.
Setting Up the Environment
Set up your home to make it as safe, stimulating and comfortable as possible for your dog before leaving them alone for extended periods:
- Childproof rooms and block hazardous areas so they don’t ingest anything dangerous.
- Provide interactive puzzle toys to keep them engaged and mentally stimulated.
- Play calming music or leave the TV on to buffer outside noises that could stress them.
- Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
- Leave them with a worn t-shirt or blanket with your scent to comfort them.
Signs Your Dog Is Struggling
Watch for these potential signs of distress if your dog is left alone too long:
- Excessive barking or howling
- Destructive chewing behaviors
- Potty accidents in the home
- Pacing, salivating, panting
- Loss of appetite
- Aggression when owners return
Ongoing displays of stress or anxiety when left alone signal that your dog requires additional training, stimulation, or companionship during the day.
The Ideal Amount of Time for Most Dogs
While variables like age, personality and training come into play, the general consensus among veterinarians and trainers is that healthy adult dogs over 2 years old can be left alone for 6 to 8 hours at a time.
Puppies under 6 months should only be left for 2-3 hours maximum, while adolescent dogs 6 months to 2 years old may tolerate being alone for 4-5 hours at a time.
Conclusion
Leaving dogs unattended for reasonable periods during the workday is usually fine with proper preparation. However, aim to limit the duration to 6-8 hours for adult dogs and consider options like pet sitters or daycare if your job requires longer absences. With training and environmental enrichment, most healthy well-adjusted dogs can learn to be content and relaxed when left alone during their owner’s work hours.