How to leave your dog home alone – without a bad conscience

On holiday, out for jogs and even at work – dog owners tend to have their companions around them all the time. However, there are times when our four-legged friends must stay home alone like when their owners go shopping.

It’s a scary thought for both dogs and their owners, but with proper training and technical aids, they can be left at home with peace of mind.

How long can a dog be left alone?

Puppies or very young dogs should ideally only be left alone for short periods, dog trainer and animal welfare experts say. However, for most adult dogs accustomed to being left alone, three to four hours later on is not a problem.

It can be helpful to get dogs used to being alone as puppies, as they are likely to react more calmly. On the other hand, some dogs, such as those from animal shelters who may have experienced trauma, can become stressed after only a short time. In such cases, it is advisable to arrange care for the dog with friends, neighbours or professional services.

How to train a dog to be alone

It is important to gradually accustom dogs to being alone. Training should ideally begin when the dog is four or five months old. In any case, owners should spend several weeks with their dog beforehand to bond and build trust

Initially, leave the house for just a few minutes and gradually increase the time. Dogs also find it easier to cope with their owner’s absence if they can anticipate it. Dog trainers will often recommend going shopping or to the gym at the same times.

What does a dog need when left alone?

A chew bone or an interactive toy can help prevent boredom. Additionally, a bowl of fresh water should always be available. A useful tip: before leaving the dog alone, take them for a walk to tire them out.

What technical aids are available?

A food dispenser ensures that your dog can eat at their usual time, even if you’re not home in time. There are also interactive toys that can be activated via smartphone to keep the dog entertained.

For those who want to keep an eye on their pet, a camera connected to an app can be installed. If the camera has a speaker function, owners can even talk to their dog. A babyphone app will also let you listen in to hear if your dog is barking.

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