How long can you leave a puppy alone?

Leaving a puppy alone for the first time can be a bit of a stressful experience, both for you and your new furry friend. Puppies are social creatures and need plenty of attention, care, and companionship. Still, there’ll undoubtably be times where you simply can’t avoid leaving them, such as when you go to work or run errands. Thankfully, with a bit of knowledge and planning on how to do it right, your puppy can feel safe, secure, and happy while you’re away.

When can I start leaving my puppy alone?

Puppies shouldn’t be left alone for long periods until they’re well settled and have learned basic routines. Typically, you can start leaving your puppy alone for short periods once they’re around 12 to 16 weeks old. However, it’s important to gradually increase the time they’re left alone. This helps them learn to be independent and feel secure when you’re not there.

Things to consider when leaving your puppy alone

Before leaving your puppy alone, ensure they’re house-trained and comfortable in their environment. It’s also important that your puppy has already started to get used to being on their own in small doses.

Here’s a list of things to think about when leaving your puppy alone:

1. Age of the puppy: Younger puppies (8-12 weeks) can generally only be left alone for shorter periods. As they get older, they can handle longer stretches of time.
2. Training: A puppy that has already been trained to feel comfortable in their crate or a designated area will be easier to leave alone. Proper training can help them remain calm and safe.
3. Safety: Make sure the environment is safe for your puppy. Remove any potential hazards like sharp objects, electrical cords, or anything they could chew on that might be dangerous.
4. Exercise needs: Puppies need to burn off all that puppy energy! If you leave your puppy alone after they’ve had a good walk or play session, they may be more likely to settle down and sleep while you’re away.
5. Mental stimulation: Puppies are very curious and need mental stimulation. Provide toys and interactive activities to keep them occupied while you're gone.

How long can puppies be alone?

The amount of time a puppy can safely be left alone depends on their age, development, and training. Puppies, especially in their early weeks, require lots of attention, exercise, and companionship. As they grow, they can handle being left alone for longer periods, but it’s important to gradually build up their tolerance. Here’s a general guide to how long puppies can be left alone based on their age:

• Under 10 weeks: Puppies this young shouldn’t be left alone for more than an hour at a time. They’re still very dependent on their mother and need frequent attention and care.
• 10-12 weeks: At this age, puppies may begin to tolerate being alone for up to 2 hours. However, they’re still learning basic routines and need plenty of supervision.
• 3 – 6 months: By 3 months old, puppies can typically handle being alone for 3 hours on the odd occasion. This is when they start developing more independence, but it’s important they’re not left alone too long or too frequently to prevent stress and anxiety. For each month after until 6 months you can typically add on an hour of alone time (4 months = 4 hours, 5 months = 5 hours, etc). Still, dogs should be monitored for signs of separation anxiety and not left too frequently.
• Over 6 months: Once puppies are over 6 months, they can often be left alone for a maximum of 6-8 hours. However, this should still be the exception rather than the rule. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a consistent routine are essential at this stage to ensure their happiness and health.

Consider a dog walker or pet sitter

It's important to note that while older puppies can tolerate longer periods alone, no dog should be left alone for extended hours on a daily basis. Puppies need regular human interaction, playtime, and bathroom breaks to remain healthy and well-adjusted. 

If you need to be away for longer periods, consider arranging for a dog walker, a trusted friend, or a pet sitter to help keep your puppy comfortable.

Tips on how to leave your puppy alone

Leaving a puppy alone can be difficult for both of you, but there are ways to make the process easier. Here are some helpful tips:

• Start small: Begin by leaving your puppy alone for short periods, gradually increasing the time as they become more comfortable.
• Use a crate: This is an individual choice but, when used properly, crate training can be one of the best ways to ensure your puppy stays safe when you’re not around. A crate can help your puppy feel secure and prevent them from chewing on things they shouldn’t.
• Create a safe space: If you don’t use a crate, set up a safe, puppy-proofed area where your dog can roam. This might be a baby playpen or a gated area with their bed, food, and toys.
• Establish a routine: Puppies thrive on routine. Try to leave and return at the same times each day. This helps your puppy understand what to expect.
• Leave comfort items: Leaving behind something with your scent, such as an old t-shirt or blanket, can comfort your puppy and help them feel less anxious.

What happens if you leave a puppy alone too long?

Puppies are naturally social animals and rely on frequent interaction to feel secure and learn how to behave. Companionship, stimulation, and regular bathroom breaks are essential. On the other hand, leaving a puppy alone for extended periods of time can have a negative impact on their development and overall wellbeing. 

For example, prolonged isolation can lead to separation anxiety, often resulting in destructive behaviours – think chewing furniture, excessive barking, or having accidents indoors. Without regular bonding time, puppies may also struggle to form a strong connection with their owners, which can lead to long-term behavioural issues. A puppy’s physical health can also be affected if they’re left alone for too long as they have smaller bladders and need to relieve themselves more often than adult dogs. Holding it in for too long is not only uncomfortable but can lead to accidents or even urinary issues. 

Dealing with Separation Anxiety in Puppies

Separation anxiety is pretty common in puppies, especially when they’re just getting used to being on their own. You might notice signs like whining, barking, howling, drooling a lot, or even chewing furniture and other things around the house. To help your puppy feel more comfortable, try getting them used to being alone gradually—start with just a few minutes and slowly build up the time. Keep your ‘hellos’ and ‘goodbyes’ calm and low-key so they don’t see it as a big deal when you leave or come back. Giving them puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys can also help keep their mind busy while you're out. If your puppy seems really anxious or nothing seems to help, you can always chat with a vet or dog trainer for some extra advice.

FAQs about leaving your puppy alone