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IisIt can be a hard decision to get a dog, especially if you’ve wanted one for a long time. You’d really like an excitable fluffball to greet you when you come home from work, but you’re just not sure if it would be responsible or fair to leave them on their own for hours on end. Are there dogs who can be left alone while you are out?
If you’re working full-time or just need to be out of the house for long periods during the day, it can be difficult to manage a new, four-legged addition to the family. In this article, we’ll cover the dog breeds that are most comfortable in their own company, how long they should typically be left alone, and suggestions for what you can do to make your pup’s solitary time less boring.
How Long Can Dogs Be Left Alone
The amount of time you can leave your dog home alone depends on the breed and their personality. Dogs Trust suggests that dogs should not be left for longer than four hours at a time, and if you are going to be out for an extended period of time, you should make arrangements for them to be looked after by a friend or family member.
Dogs Who Can Be Left Alone
We’ve compiled an informative list of dog breeds that can happily spend time on their own without pining or anxiously destroying your home when you’re away. These breeds are independent and adaptable. They are perfect home-loving dogs that working dog owners can confidently leave alone for hours.
Greyhound
These long-legged pups are generally calm, gentle, and pretty low-maintenance. This athletic breed does require a good amount of daily exercise but will happily spend a large part of the day snoozing away.
Affectionate with their family but independent in nature, they are pretty happy being in their own company. They are a very adaptable breed that can cope with a change in their daily routine.
Pug
Pugs are affectionate little furballs with bags of character. They love their humans and quickly bond with a family, but as long as a routine is established, they cope well with being left alone and adapt well to your schedule.
These squish-faced dogs don’t need much in the way of exercise, and they’re more than happy to curl up on the couch or in their bed and snore the day away.
Basset Hound
Basset hounds can be an excellent choice for someone looking for a dog that can be left alone. These long-eared hounds are a calm and patient breed and can handle being by themselves for long periods of time.
Additionally, they don’t require a lot of exercise, so they can easily lounge around the house while you’re gone. However, it is important to note that basset hounds can be quite vocal when they’re home alone, so you may want to consider this if you live in a close-knit neighborhood.
Whippet
Whippets are such sweet-natured dogs that it’s not hard to see why so many people choose to add them to their families. When it comes to leaving this breed home alone, they are a great choice. These speedy little dogs do require at least an hour of exercise a day, but once they’ve stretched their legs, you’re literally good to go.
Shar Pei
These wrinkly pups are very independent, making them fantastic for households where they may have to spend some time alone. Shar Pei’s are not prone to separation anxiety and, in fact, often prefer to be on their own. They do require a moderate amount of exercise, so taking them for a walk before you leave is an ideal way to set up their day.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain dog is a large breed, but don’t let their size fool you into thinking they are too much to handle. This breed is calm and very intelligent, making them relatively easy to train, and they can quickly get used to the routine of being left alone.
Being a larger breed means they can typically last a reasonable amount of time without the need to relieve themselves. Bernese mountain dogs also don’t require as much activity as other giant breeds.
So if you have a sizable home and garden that can accommodate this gentle giant. They would make a fantastic addition to homes that are unoccupied during the day.
Miniature Schnauzer
The miniature schnauzer is a small yet feisty dog full of personality.
They are incredibly affectionate dogs that are great with children, making them a great addition to families. They are very flexible in their needs as a breed, which makes leaving them at home a breeze.
Due to their protective nature, Miniature Schnauzers can be prone to a good barking session. If they hear something out of the ordinary or see things moving out of the window.
It’s a good idea to keep them away from windows and doors while you’re not home to spare the neighbors from the noise.
If you’re still unsure of which canine companion would suit you and your family, here is a handy dog breed selector tool to help you decide which breed would fit you best.
Things You Can Do To Make Being Alone Easier For Your Dog
Once you’ve chosen your new furry friend, there are a few things you can do to help your pup feel more comfortable and safe while you are out of the house.
- Leave the TV or radio on (choose quiet and calm shows/music
- Train your dog to know when you are leaving
- Don’t make a fuss when you return
- Exercise your dog well before you leave
- Hire a dog walker
- Get a friend or relative to call in and
- Crate train your dog
How to Keep Your Dog Occupied While You Are Out
Here are 3 quick tips to keep hairy housesitter occupied while you’re out:
1. Dogs love Toys! Kongs stuffed with peanut butter or treats, chew toys, puzzle toys or even a new squeaky toy. This will help keep your pup mentally engaged and happy.
2. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of food and water. Especially if you’re going to be gone for hours.
3. Take them on plenty of walks and playtime before you leave. A tired dog is less likely to get into mischief while you’re away.
Warning Signs of Separation Anxiety
When it comes to dogs who can be left alone, it’s crucial to recognize the difference between a dog that’s comfortable with solitude and one that’s experiencing separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs is a serious condition that can manifest in various troubling behaviors. Being able to identify these signs can help you address the issue promptly and ensure the well-being of your furry friend.
Destructive Behavior:
One of the most common signs of separation anxiety is destructive behavior. This might include chewing furniture, ripping apart pillows, or scratching doors and floors. This behavior is typically more than just the usual puppy mischief; it’s often an outlet for their stress.
Excessive Barking or Howling:
A dog suffering from separation anxiety might vocalize their distress through persistent barking, howling, or whining. This is especially noteworthy if neighbors report these behaviors occurring in your absence.
Potty Accidents:
Even well-house-trained dogs might have accidents in the house when experiencing separation anxiety. If you return home to unexpected messes, it could be a sign of stress rather than a lapse in training.
Pacing and Restlessness:
Some dogs may exhibit restless behavior like pacing back and forth, especially near the door or window through which you left. This restlessness is often a physical manifestation of their anxiety.
Attempts to Escape:
In severe cases, a dog may try to escape from the house or yard in an attempt to reunite with their owner. This can lead to potentially dangerous situations.
Changes in Eating Habits:
Anxiety can also impact a dog’s appetite. Some dogs might refuse to eat when left alone, which can be particularly worrying if they miss meals regularly.
Excessive Drooling or Panting:
These can be physical signs of stress and anxiety. Some dogs might drool excessively or pant more than usual when left alone.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it’s essential to take action. Consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist to find the best approach to help your dog feel more secure. Remember, while some dogs can be left alone, it’s crucial to ensure that their emotional and mental needs are being met to prevent anxiety and stress.
Conclusion
If you’re out of the house for work in the daytime, and wondering dogs who can be left alone? It’s essential to get the right breed that’s comfortable being alone for long periods of time. It’s also important that your new buddy feel safe, happy, and simulated before you trust them to look after the house in your absence.
Make sure you give them a good, long walk before you leave and access to food and water. You should always keep your furry friend’s little brain stimulated. You can use plenty of fun toys and play things to keep them amused. There are many things to consider before getting a dog that can be left home alone, but with the right breed and good preparation, it should work out just fine.
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