Morristown, TN
Remember having to stay at home almost all the time during the pandemic? Your dog probably loved having you around so much. However, as busy adults, eventually work, errands and other responsibilities are going to mean you have to leave your dog by themselves. How long is it safe to leave your dog alone? What are the risks? We explore this topic in greater detail, today on the blog.
The length of time a dog can be left alone depends on several factors
- Age: For example, you do not want to leave a young puppy under six months old alone for more than a couple of hours at a time, because this dog is likely to have less bladder control. Leaving a puppy for extended times also may lead them to develop separation anxiety. Most adult dogs can be left by themselves for at least four to six hours a day, but many can adapt to being on their own for eight hours or longer – usually while you are at work. You may have to make more frequent visits or check ins for an older dog, who may experience diminished bladder control.
- Breed: Certain breeds function better on their own than others. This is because they are predisposed to a more laid back temperament, provided you give them enough exercise and attention when you are together. Breeds that do well at home alone include the labrador, chow chow, french bulldog, corgi, boxer, golden retriever and basset hound.
- Personality: Is your dog usually mellow? If so, they probably will just sleep while you are away. Dogs that are more high-strung may have a more difficult time relaxing when they are left alone. A dog with separation anxiety could develop destructive habits as a means of channeling that anxiety and take out that frustration by chewing on your shoes, furniture or other belongings. If this means they start chewing on cords or get into substances that are toxic to dogs then the physical health of your pup could be in jeopardy.
So is it safe to leave my dog alone?
As a general rule of thumb, if you can leave your dog home alone for four hours at a time, you probably can work them up to being by themselves for eight hours. It is important to remember that physical exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to having a happy, healthy dog. Leaving your dog alone too often or for too long may have a negative impact on both their physical health and overall happiness. Your dog can feel lonely when you are away, because your four-legged family member has developed those strong bonds with you. Your dog also is going to need regular access to the necessities: the ability to use the bathroom, time to exercise, and access to food and water.
Consider doggy daycare
If your dog is showing signs of separation anxiety or you plan on being gone for longer than eight hours in a day, reputable boarding facilities such as AllDogs Canine Care Center offer daytime care programs. We offer both Play Care, which is best for dogs that prefer not to socialize with other dogs; and Play Camp, where your dog gets to spend time and frolic with other four-legged friends. And, because our facility is staffed 24/7, these daycare services are not restricted to the 9-to-5 workday. We even offer training during our daycare program and can pamper your dog at our Paw Spa.
For more information on our Play Care, Play Camp or any of our other services, contact AllDogs Canine Care Center by calling (865) 475-2225, emailing info@alldogsinc.com or build your own stay with our convenient online contact form.