Whether you’re getting a new puppy or adopting an adult dog, you’re bringing a new family member into your life. While you may want to be with your new buddy all the time, responsibilities like work, family and errands can force you to leave your dog alone at home. That’s why we’re going to take a look at the do’s and don’ts of how long you can leave your dog alone at home.
How Long Can You Leave a Dog Alone
If you’re starting with a puppy, they’ll need more potty breaks and require more of your attention. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has a guideline that recommends new puppies up to 10 weeks old can only hold their bladder for 1 hour. Puppies 10-12 weeks can hold it for 2 hours, and after 3 months, dogs can usually hold their bladder for an hour for each month they’ve been alive, but no longer than 6-8 hours once they’re adults.
Mature dogs over 18 months of age: Up to 4 hours at a time during the day
Adolescent dogs 5 - 18 months: Gradually build up to 4 hours at a time during the day
Young puppies up to 5 months of age: Should not be left alone for long periods during the day.
The do’s and don’ts of leaving your dog alone.
The chart above is a good place to begin. But because every dog is different, and life can be unpredictable, we’ve created a list of do’s and don’ts that provide everyday solutions to help you and your dog enjoy your time more together.
Do give them a dog door for potty breaks and sunshine on demand
Giving your dog access to the outdoors with a pet door has many benefits. Getting outdoors provides your dog fresh air and sunshine and provides mental stimulation and exercise. Plus, your dog will appreciate having unlimited potty breaks, and you’ll appreciate that it helps to avoid indoor accidents.
If you have a sliding glass door with access to a patio or yard, the Sliding Glass Pet Door is a great solution. It involves no cutting for installation and is easy to take with you if you move, so it’s perfect for renters.
Do provide a fence to keep your dog safe when you’re not watching
We just went over how giving your dog access to your yard is essential for mental stimulation, fresh air and potty breaks. But it’s also important to keep your dog safe in the yard and make sure he doesn’t escape. If you already have a traditional physical fence, but your dog still manages to escape, you can add a pet fence to keep him from digging under or jumping over your traditional fence.
Do provide fresh food and a consistent dog feeding schedule
Dogs love routine. Feeding the right amount of food on a consistent dog feeding schedule helps maintain a healthy weight. It can also prevent food-related bad behavior like dumpster diving in the trash can when you are away or begging for food when you’re at home. With an automatic pet feeder, you can give your dog portioned meals with the mealtime routine he craves. Here are two different types of automatic pet feeders that can help you with this.
Do provide fresh, flowing water
When you can’t be home, you can still help your dog stay hydrated by providing access to fresh, flowing, filtered water. In addition, better hydration can help prevent a variety of common kidney and urinary issues, some of which may be linked to stress, which may be elevated when you’re not home. The fountains also have an adjustable trickling flow which can provide a soothing source of white noise to calm your dog while you’re away.
Don’t let your dog access off-limits areas at home
When a dog gets bored, and they know you’re not watching, they may venture onto furniture or places that they’re not supposed to be. Here are 2 ways to create pet-free zones in your home or around the yard.
