It is really important to ensure that we support dogs with being comfortable alone, particularly if you need to leave your dog after extended periods of time with them. We’ve shared some information which we hope is of help, to prepare your dog for the time when you’ll be out more often. Dogs don’t understand why you’ve been around every day and then suddenly leave them alone again. The key is to gradually ease them into being on their own and help them feel comfortable with it.
Dogs thrive on routine, as it helps them feel secure and set expectations. To start, try spending short periods away from your dog at regular times each day, gradually increasing these intervals.
Here are a few ways to help your dog adjust:
- Leave your dog inside while you go outside for small tasks like hanging up the washing or gardening.
- Take walks without your dog.
- If you’re working in one room, close the door and leave your dog in another room for a while.
- Avoid letting your dog follow you around the house from room to room.
- Provide independent activities for mental stimulation, like a bone, antler, Kong toy, or Licki mat.
- Start leaving the house more frequently, gradually increasing the time you’re away. This will teach your dog that you always come back.
If your dog used to stay in a crate or behind a gate when you were out, consider letting them take naps in that space to help them adjust to being alone.
Test your dog’s behavior when leaving and returning:
- Step outside and lock the door, then come back in after a few minutes. Pay attention to whether your dog barks, whines, or scratches at the door.
- When you return, remain calm and don’t immediately give them attention. Put your coat and bag away first, then greet your dog.
It helps to leave the house in a similar way each time, even for short trips. For example, if you gave your dog a treat before leaving or left them in a specific room, do this even for smaller outings.
As you prepare for changes:
- Choose a safe, quiet room with nothing valuable or dangerous for your dog when you leave them alone.
- Leave a radio on quietly for background noise.
- If your neighbors aren’t leaving their homes, ask them to keep an ear out for your dog and check in when you return. A two-way camera might allow you to speak to your dog while you’re away.
In the coming weeks, if family or friends are nearby, ask if they could help with your dog for a few hours when you’re not home.
Getting back into a routine is important:
- Take walks at the usual times and start following your pre-work routine, such as getting ready, having breakfast, and leaving the house. This helps your dog adjust to your new routine.
- Gradually return to previous meal times and walk schedules.
- Avoid engaging in activities like feeding, walking, or playing during the hours you’d typically be away.
Watch for signs of stress:
- Your dog may show anxiety by pacing, panting, or becoming agitated when they see you preparing to leave. If they start barking or howling right after you close the door, stay quiet and listen to see how they’re responding.
- Destructive behavior is common in dogs with separation anxiety, such as chewing furniture, digging at doors, or trying to escape.
- Dogs might also relieve themselves due to stress, though puppies may do this regardless.
When you return home, your dog might act as though they haven’t seen you in ages. Some dogs struggle to calm themselves and may be stressed or bored.
To ease their anxiety, help them release energy with a long walk or play before you leave for the day. Ironically, allowing your dog full access to the house while you’re out can be overwhelming for them. It’s better to restrict them to one or two rooms.
This process takes time, but with patience, your dog will adjust to spending time alone more comfortably.