Tips for Leaving Your Dog Alone
Leaving your beloved furry friend home alone can be anxiety-inducing. What is Barkley doing
without you? Is Muffin destroying the house? Now that many people are transitioning back to
the workplace full-time, the guilt of leaving our dogs alone is creeping up. Don’t fret! Here are
five tips for a guilt-free day away from home.
Check for Safety Hazards
Before you leave, make sure there is nothing in your dog’s path that could potentially cause them
harm (think electrical cords and items that could be ingested). For some adventurous pups, crate
training can ensure Fido stays safe and your home remains intact. If you’re worried that a crate
might be too confining for your dog’s needs, check out dog pens!
Give Your Dog a Safe Space
Giving your dog a place where they feel comfortable can provide them with a sense of comfort
when you’re away. Before you leave, make sure Fido is equipped with all his favorite toys and
some comfy blankets to nap on.
Leave Background Noise
Silence can be frightening for dogs used to hearing their owners walking around the house and
talking. Turning on the TV or playing your favorite podcast (did someone say true crime?) can
make your furry friend feel like they aren’t alone. Programming specifically for dogs may best
suit the needs of an especially anxious pup. DOGTV, for example, is a streaming service
designed to occupy anxious dogs.
Set Up a Time to Walk
If you plan to be gone for more than a few hours, consider hiring a dog walker or making time to
come home to give your pal a break. Dog-walking businesses in your area can provide you and
your pup with a reliable friend to ease the stress and let your pal do his business. Time to catch up on
the neighborhood smells can break up the day for your dog and give them something new to
focus on.
Provide Mentally-Stimulating Toys
To prevent boredom, try leaving your dog with a puzzle toy. Puzzle toys (which include a
favorite toy filled with a yummy treat!) can keep your dog busy while you’re away. Mentally-
stimulating toys can often have additional benefits such as satisfaction of hunting instincts,
weight management, and self-entertainment.