Medically Reviewed

20 Dogs That Can Be Left Alone

Written by: Bojana Radulovic
Margarita Boyd
Reviewed by: Dr. Margarita Boyd, BVSc MRCVS
If you work a lot but would like to share your life with a dog, choosing the right breed is essential. Here are breeds that tolerate better being left alone during the day.

Dogs that can be left alone are on the rise.

People love dogs that can be left alone for many reasons, with the biggest one being that they are not too clingy.

In other words, people love dogs that can be left alone because they can be left alone.

No dog should be left alone for an unreasonable amount of time, no matter how much independent they might be – this is something to remember. Still, some breeds are better at staying alone than others.

If you work a lot but would like to share your life with a dog, choosing the right breed is essential. If you want a dog that can be left alone, this is the article for you.

Dogs that can be left alone exist.

We’ve created a list of dog breeds that can be left alone. Dogs listed in this list are potentially more suited to being left alone during the day, making them an excellent choice for busy people.

However, it is important to remember that dogs are naturally social animals, and they love to spend time with people.

We understand that sometimes it is not possible to spend all day with our dogs, as much as we would love to be able to!

Contents show

Sometimes Dogs Must Be Left Alone

We have work, college, gym time, family obligations, commuting (traffic!), and everything else which eats up our precious time.

If you don’t have a lot of free time to spend with your dog, due to other life commitments, then you may need to consider if getting a dog is the right decision at the moment.

Your dog needs at least one walk a day, playtime, feeding times, multiple toilet breaks throughout the day, and a lot of love and attention!

Good to know: Puppies will crave more of your attention and time.

All in all, some dog breeds can be left alone for 8 hours (and no more than 8 hours).

That is why we have created this helpful list of dog breeds, that may be more suitable to leave alone during the daytime.

Now, let’s discover dogs that can be left alone.

Dogs That Can Be Left Alone:

Click on the desired breed, or scroll to read the whole list.

Before letting you know more about what dogs can be left alone, you should know that at the end of this article, you will find more info about all the things you have to take into consideration when choosing a dog while having a full-time job.

20. Basset Hound

Basset-Hound

Tolerate being alone score: 3/5

It may come as a surprise, given the hunting background of the breed, but Bassets is an easy-going type of dog that can easily turn into couch potatoes if given a chance to.

More importantly, the Basset hound is stable and not prone to mood swings or anxiety.

So, if you are in the mood to go for a low-intensity hike – Basset will be cool with that, and if some alone-time daily is what has to be done – it`s cool with that as well.

For how long can Basset Hound be left alone? Basset Hound can handle being alone for a maximum of four hours

19. Boston Terrier

Boston-Terrier

Tolerate being alone score: 3/5

Many pick the Boston Terrier as a pet for its small size and resemblance to the Boxer. They also adapt well to apartment living.

These even-tempered, intelligent, and energetic dogs will not find it too hard to stay at home alone, as long as you provide them with toys of some sort to amuse themselves with.

For how long can Boston Terrier be left alone? Boston Terrier can be left alone for a period between four to eight hours

18. Dachshund

dachshund

Tolerate being alone score: 3/5

The comical Dachshunds are confident, intelligent dogs that make a wonderful addition to any family.

They reached the peak of their popularity in the 1950s and have remained among the most popular dogs ever since.

Being bred to dig and hunt badgers and other animals, these dogs are great listeners and are very smart and brave. However, they can often have a too-independent spirit and be stubborn.

While this might cause some issues when it comes to training, it can also be a benefit when it comes to people that can’t spend a lot of their time at home.

A Dachshund will enjoy his alone time without crying and howling for you.

For how long can Dachshund be left alone? Dachshund should not be left alone for more than four hours

17. Scottish Terrier

Tolerate being alone score: 3/5

The Scottish Terrier is known for his role as the Lady’s loyal friend from Lady and the Tramp.

This short-legged dog is bred to hunt badgers and foxes which is why he is very intelligent and independent. The Scottie is a naturally aloof dog that might ignore you when he needs his own time and space.

Scottish Terriers are wonderful companions for families with kids but can be difficult to train because of their genes telling them they should work (hunt) separately from their owners.

For how long can Scottish Terrier be left alone? Scottish Terrier can handle being left alone for a period between four to eight hours per day

16. Goldador

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

Goldador is a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever.

The idea was to create a working dog that is sensitive as a goldie and tolerant as a lab. Goldadors are active dogs that need regular exercise.

They are also a popular choice among people that work full-time hours, because of their tolerance of some alone time.

Goldadors are quick learners, good friends, and have easygoing personas.

You just have to love them! Plus, if you provide him with enough toys, he will barely notice you’re not around. Goldadors love playing and making up new activities.

For how long can Goldador be left alone? Goldador should not be left alone for longer than eight hours

15. Labradoodle

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

Yet another crossbreed on the list. This time it’s the famous “designer” breed called Labradoodle.

Not only is this dog suitable for owners that are away from home for long hours, but Labradoodles also work great as therapy dogs.

However, there’s another trait that makes them a popular choice for many new dog owners, their hypoallergenic coat.

All in all, Labradoodles are dogs of a poodle-intelligence and Labrador friendliness that won’t leave anyone indifferent. These pups are also very easy to train.

Overall, if you’re looking for a small hypoallergenic dog that can be left alone you should think about welcoming this breed into your life.

If you’re looking for a great pal that will enjoy learning new commands and won’t suffer from separation anxiety, a Labradoodle is a right choice for you but please don’t forget, regular walks are a must for them.

For how long can Labradoodle be left alone? Labradoodle can spend around eight hours being left alone

14. Small Munsterlander Pointer

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

Don’t let this breed’s name fool you, Small Munsterland Pointers are medium-sized dogs.

They are sporting dogs that were bred for hunting which is why they became very popular across Europe.

The Small Munsterland is an affectionate dog with great water-retrieving skills. Training him will be a real breeze, but he will need a lot of daily exercises.

This hunting dog will enjoy running, jogging, swimming, and playing flyball.

Being such an intelligent pup, he will also find it quite easy to entertain himself while being left alone at home. Just provide some toys and he’ll be fine.

For how long can a Small Munsterlander Pointer be left alone? As a general rule, Small Munsterlander Pointer, like other Pointers, can be left for four hours

13. English Foxhound

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

Movies, books, and cartoons have been made about this tricolor dog and his hot pursuit of a red fox.

English Foxhounds are strong and graceful dogs that love staying active. They will be a great companion for jogging, running, or even horseback riding.

English Foxhounds are very intelligent and will know exactly how to spend their alone time.

However, the time you don’t spend with an English Foxhound throughout the day, you’ll have to spend on daily exercise and various activities.

If you’re a runner, this dog is a perfect choice for you!

For how long can English Foxhounds be left alone? This breed hates being left alone frequently, so keep it at minimum

12. Basenji

Basenji

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

The Basenji was originally bred in Africa to hunt and exterminate rat nests. What remained of that is the ever-awake and active explorer`s mind.

The Basenji is not as independent as the Chow but displays affection in far more obvious ways.

The Basenji equally enjoys your company and the time alone that he dedicates to exploring and figuring out new ways to amuse himself.

For how long can Basenji be left alone? Basenji can handle up to eight hours being left alone

11. Chinese Shar-Pei

sharpei

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

This unusual dog with loose wrinkles, a purple tongue, and a bristle-like coat is definitely among the most interesting-looking dogs out there.

It’s not only his rare looks that set him apart, Shar-Pei is an independent dog that can even sometimes be aloof.

Thanks to these traits in his personality, a Shar-Pei handles some alone time much better than most other breeds.

They are very devoted dogs, but they have to be properly trained at an early age because they can be often stubborn, just like any other independent dog breed.

For how long can Shar-Pei be left alone? Shar-Pei canbe left alone for maximum of four hours

10. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa-Apso

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

Lhasa Apso is sometimes referred to as the biggest small dog, due to its strong and dominant character, an unusual sort of intelligence, and absolute absence of the sense of its tiny size.

Unlike many small lap dogs, Lhasa Apso probably won`t spend its time alone squealing in fear but rather hoping to catch the burglar.

For how long can Lhasa Apso be left alone? Lhasa Apso can be left alone for a maximum of four hours

9. Otterhound

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

Otterhound is a very rare and old breed that has been developed in England.

It is believed that there are fewer than 1,000 Otterhounds today and that they’ve been around for more than 5 centuries.

This rare breed has a sweet, soft personality and is a type of dog that doesn’t require a lot of attention.

Being so independent, he will enjoy having his alone time. Otterhounds are very friendly dogs that do well with kids.

If you’re planning to get one, you should be prepared for difficulties in finding Otterhound breeders.

For how long can Otterhound be left alone? Otterhounds can be left alone for between three to four hours

8. Shiba Inu

Shiba-Inu

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

Although they are strong-willed, even the stubborn Shiba Inu is an exceptionally intelligent breed that is capable of learning pretty much anything – as long as he believes that the idea is one of his own.

Shiba Inu is not a breed that will react well to conventional training methods, yet if approached properly, this independent, funny and energetic dog will not have any trouble staying at home alone.

Often compared to Akita Inu, Shiba Inu is known as a good watchdog, so you can rest assured your apartment will be safe while you are away.

For how long can Shiba Inu be left alone? Shiba Inu can be left alone for not more than eight hours at a time

7. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature-schnauzer

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent, affectionate, and energetic little creatures, quite unaware of their small size.

Eager to learn, they will have no trouble at all staying at home alone, as long as they are provided with something to keep their minds busy; whether a toy or the role of the guard dog.

Miniature Schnauzers are perfect for people that are looking for low-shedding dog breeds that is also hypoallergenic.

A word of caution:

Some Miniature Schnauzers may cause some trouble because they tend to bark a lot when they step into the guard dog role.

For how long can Miniature Schnauzer be left alone? Healthy fully grown Miniature Schnauzer can be left alone for ten hours

6. Chow Chow

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

The Chow Chow is a type of dog with a sense of independence and self-dignity like no other.

Chows aren’t normally cuddly, nor do they display affection in the usual way, but that does not mean that they aren’t affectionate or loving – in their sophisticated way.

In fact:

Living with a Chow is more like living with a flatmate than living with a pet that depends on your presence. Being like that, Chow will do well if left home alone.

For how long can Chow Chow be left alone? Chow Chow is a breed prone to separation anxiety and should not be left more than two hours

5. French Bulldog

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

The French Bulldog is a perfect choice for those who want a dog of medium energy level.

French Bulldogs are great for families. As a barking-free breed, the French Bulldog will be your shadow.

This breed will require your companionship but doesn’t require excessive exercise.

French Bulldog is known for their short faces, which makes it difficult for them to breathe and run, which is why they aren’t prone to heavy exercise.

Since they have short faces, French Bulldogs are prone to brachycephalic health issues.

Since they don’t bark much, they are perfect city dogs – your neighbor will love your French Bulldog as much as you do.

For how long can French Bulldog be left alone? French Bulldog can be left alone for up to six hours

4. Greyhound

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

For decades, veterinarians have been claiming that Greyhounds don’t suffer too much when separated from their people.

This doesn’t mean that they don’t like their owners, nor that they love being alone – it just means that it’s easy for them to relax on their own.

Plus, they spend the majority of their day napping.

As puppies and younger dogs, they need a long walk on a leash daily and proper exercise. However, as they age, they need less and less activity.

As senior dogs, Greyhounds don’t need a daily run. This breed should be on the leash whenever on a walk because they have poor recall when off-leash.

For running sessions always choose a local dog park. Keep in mind that this amazing breed is prone to running off if not exercised in an enclosed area – and dealing with a lost dog is something that no dog owner wants to experience.

Since this is a large breed, make sure that you fully understand what owning this dog means.

For large-size dogs, you will need a bowl that fits large-size dogs and other equipment adjusted to large-size dogs.

For how long can Greyhounds be left alone? Greyhounds can be left alone between six to eight hours

3. Chihuahua

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

The Chihuahua is mostly known as the bag dog since owners do love to carry them. However, this is a small size dog, with a big personality who isn’t afraid to walk on his own.

This small dog is a national symbol of Mexico and one of the most famous dog breeds globally.

Chihuahua is also among the oldest breeds of the Americas. Some historians claim that evidence of this breed can be found in pre-Columbian times.

This small dog still sheds, but not as badly as large dogs with longer hair. Chihuahuas are passionate barkers, so if you are city-based plan additional training to minimize that high pitch barking style.

When left alone they should have dog toys nearby, because they can get enough exercise in a very small space.

Short, regular, and slow walks are enough for this breed to keep him in great condition and fair weight.

If your Chihuahua is panting and working hard to keep up, it’s time to go home, so be careful when it comes to exercising.

For how long can Chihuahua be left alone? If a Chihuahua has easy access to a toilet, this small size dog can be left alone for up to eight hours

2. Maltese

Tolerate being alone score: 4/5

This small size dog is known for its fluffy personality and cute appearance.

Maltese is a great companion dog and even in their senior years, they have that puppy energy.

Maltese doesn’t shed a lot and is among the breeds that can be left alone. Even when you’re home, they will bark like large size dogs to inform you that someone is in front of your door.

Your home will be 100% safe with Maltese around.

Pro tip: To keep barking and yodeling to a minimum when you are away, make sure that you leave him in a room far from the front door and windows, otherwise, they will bark at anything that moves.

This is a long-lived and low-shedding breed, that is more than happy to make new friends of all ages.

They thrive on training since they love to entertain their humans. Make sure that you use treats to get the best out of them.

For how long can Maltese be left alone? Maltese is a breed that cannot be left alone for too long. Being left for four hours is their maximum

1. Pugs

Tolerate being alone score: 5/5

Did you know that this popular dog is one of the oldest dog breeds alive? They are so ancient that this small dog was the symbol of the Freemasons.

Emperors of China were huge lovers of this breed. They were so loved that they were treated like royalty.

In fact, they were so pampered that they had mini chateaus. This breed is prone to obesity, which is why their weight should be kept under control and at an optimal level.

Did you know that a group of Pugs is called a grumble? In Holland, the pug is called a mopshond, which comes from the Dutch for “to grumble.”

Like all flat-faced breeds, Pugs do experience heavy breathing problems and do beyond poorly when it comes to sunny, hot, and humid weather.

For how long can Pugs be left alone? Pug can be left alone for a period between four to six hours

Are There Dogs That Like Being Alone?

Although we have focused on dogs that can be left alone and who tolerate better being alone, there isn’t a single dog on earth that likes being left alone.

In general, dogs hate being left alone. Again they can be left alone, but they will hate it. This is even more true if you have a very active breed, such as Border Collie.

Being social creatures, our canine friends thrive when they are in our company. Therefore, you shouldn’t count on any breed to be independent to such an extent that you can leave it for more than 8 hours a day.

Just like there are dog breeds that are more likely to fit a busy working schedule, certain dogs (such as working dogs) won’t be happy at all if left alone.

Labrador and Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, or Border Collies are all working dogs that need to spend most of their time being active or in the presence of their owner to be perfectly healthy and happy.

Furthermore, you can mark them as dogs without separation anxiety, or at least not strong ones.

So, if you’re working a full-time job, don’t get yourself breeds that need a lot of attention, exercise, and your presence.

A lot of people end up buying dogs that are not suitable for their professional life, which often ends up in animals being given up to shelters.

The best thing that you can do when you are getting a dog is to think thoroughly about your lifestyle and be sincere about how much time you can dedicate to your new family member. It can also help to compare dog breeds and choose the one that fits your lifestyle the best.

That being said, if you spend the majority of the day outside, think about dog breeds that can be left alone for long periods.

Don’t do the same, and choose a dog that won’t be as sensitive as others to spend some alone time with.

So since we established no dog likes being left alone, you should be ready to adapt your weekly schedule to ensure your dog doesn’t suffer when left home alone.

This means you would probably have to make some sacrifices. After you finish working, you would have to hurry up and reunite with your dog.

Should I Get A New Puppy Or Should I Adopt A Dog?

Since being left alone often puts dogs to go through rough times, it is not recommendable to get a puppy if you tend to spend long hours outside your home.

Why? Well, puppies that are left alone for long periods can suffer from different behavioral issues when they grow up.

Being socialized early is crucial for their healthy development which is why getting a new puppy shouldn’t be an option for anyone working full hours daily.

Instead, you might want to adopt an adult dog from a shelter.

You’d need some time to get the dog used to the new environment, but once they are familiar with their surroundings, you will be able to behave with them the same way you would with any other adult dog.

Finally, if you’re looking for a really lazy dog that won’t require a lot of exercise time and would prefer to spend his time napping, adopting a senior dog might be the best solution for you.

Getting a senior dog generally means that health issues will also be more likely to occur which will require your constant attention and a vet you can trust.

How Long Can A Dog Be Left Alone?

It’s important not to forget that dogs are social animals and they love spending time with us, so leaving them alone all day isn’t the best idea if you want a happy, well-adjusted dog.

According to this study, dogs are affected by the duration of time at home alone.

That said, if you don’t work particularly long hours (say, 5-6 hours a day, 8 at an absolute maximum) then you can consider adopting an adult dog, who is already known (by its previous owners and/or the shelter staff) to be comfortable being left alone.

Even dogs that can be left alone may stop enjoying alone time after a while.

Puppies will need much more time and effort and generally don’t like being left alone for long periods.

Read next: 17 Ways To Keep Dog Busy While At Work

What Do Dogs Do When They Are Alone?

Have you wondered what your dog does when it’s alone?

We’ve all wondered about it, so let’s get started. Here are some things that dogs do when they are left alone.

1. Sleep

Fact: The average dog sleeps for about 14 hours a day (including at night).

Can this really be true? Yes!

In fact, puppies and senior dogs can sleep even more.

If taken for exercise, dogs will sleep more during the day, so it could be a great idea to take your dog for a long walk before going to work or school.

A simple exercise can help dogs deal with alone time. Even if your dog can be left alone for long hours, a nice run before you go can do owners.

2. Play

Dogs love to play, especially with toys filled with dog treats. When alone, be sure your dog has its favorite toy to pass the time.

If you have two dogs, they can have great fun playing together even when they are alone.

If you have to leave your dog alone frequently, you may think about organizing playtime with a neighbor’s dog?

If two dogs can be left alone, it is always great to organize some playtime.

3. Guard The House

If you have a guard dog, it will likely wake up and guard at any suspicious sound. However, other dog breeds will too try to keep their eye on what’s going on either from the window or your yard.

Good to know: Don’t think that dog who can be left alone can be great at guarding homes

4. Eat

We all know that dogs love to eat. Therefore, if you leave some chewable treats around, or if you forget to put their food out of their reach (or you don’t provide them enough food while alone), be sure your dog will eat everything by the time you’re home.

Also, make sure all “human” food leftovers are properly stored and kept in places where your dog can’t access them.

Your pup might end up eating something that is toxic to dogs which can result in poisoning, especially when they are left alone.

5. Cry

Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety will likely whine, cry and bark when you’re away.

Sometimes these episodes of sadness can endure the entire time you’re not home, but in other cases, they can come and go.

You don’t want to leave your dog sad all the time, which is why you should make sure there are plenty of distractions that will help him endure your absence easier.

At times, too much crying and severe separation anxiety can lead to destructive behavior.

Dogs will try to “punish” you for not being thereby destroying your favorite pillow or peeing where they shouldn’t.

6. Explore Around The House

If you don’t keep your dog in a crate while you’re away, he will likely explore the house and look for new corners, interesting things, and even maybe insects to chase around.

Dogs are curious creatures that might find weird things interesting. This is something that is even more seen in dogs that can be left alone, as they have a fair amount of time to explore their surroundings.

Bigger the space, the bigger the playground!

How To Make Staying Home Alone Easier For Your Dog?

dog sitter

Now if you’re in a situation that doesn’t enable you to spend more time with your dog, you might want to make his alone time a little less stressful.

Remember that no dog enjoys spending a lot of time alone and that one way or another they will think that you abandoned them.

Dogs that can be left alone, but not for too long. If leaving them becomes a regular practice they may develop several issues.

There are those dogs that are slightly lazier and that will more likely spend their time chilling rather than crying, but they still won’t ever be happy when they’re alone.

We suppose that you want to ensure your dog spends this time as stress-free as possible. Therefore, we’ve collected the best tips on how to make staying home alone a little easier for our dogs! So, let’s start!

1. Come Back For Breaks

If your home is close to your work and you have lunch breaks, you can come back home and bring your dog for a walk which will surely do you good as well.

It will not only be a great bonding time for you two, but it will be a much-needed potty break for your pup too. Even dogs that can be left alone enjoy a nice break and a pee walk.

2. Engage a Family Member

When you have to leave a dog alone, ask yourself if you don’t have anyone around who could stay with Fido.

Ask someone you’re close with such as a family member, or a close friend that doesn’t work to come to play or simply spend some time with your dog.

Dogs always fill us up with positive energy, and your dog will get the attention they need and probably have an opportunity to have a potty break.

3. Hire a Dog Sitter or Dog Walker

If you don’t have any close relatives or a friend that can spend some time with your dog, then you can hire a dog sitter or a dog walker.

A dog sitter will spend the entire day with your dog, while a dog walker will simply bring your dog out for a walk.

Decide what is the better option for your dog and find trustworthy platforms that guarantee their credentialed dog walkers.

Your dog is used to being left alone, but do you want to change that? If so, great, but you should know that you are in for a tough process.

Finding a trusted dog sitter or dog walker isn’t easy, and it requires extra time, research, and even interviews.

You cannot leave your dog with anyone no matter how great the price must be.

4. Create a Schedule

Are you living with your family and all of you have different work shifts and work different hours?

Making a dog walking or playtime schedule might be the best solution for you. This way you can all cover your dog’s needs and make sure your pet is happy.

5. Adopt Another Pet

Your dog can be left alone, but do you want another pet to keep Fido company?

If so, the best way to make your dog happy and entertained while you’re not home is by getting him a new companion.

Of course, under the condition that your dog is animal-friendly first, you can adopt either a cat or a dog. However, this is only a solution for longer-term periods, because you will need to monitor both pets closely until they adjust to living together.

Also, you can consult an adoption specialist that will help you correctly pair the personalities.

6. Provide Toys

As a dog owner, you’re probably aware of how much dogs love their toys.

But there is much more than a simple bouncy ball that your dog loves chasing around.

For their mental stimulation, buy an interactive toy such as a bob-a-lot or Kong toy and fill it up with dog kibble food/ treats/ frozen peanut butter.

Leaving these toys around when you’re away will surely entertain your dog and keep him busy while he’s not sleeping.

Toys will not only keep dogs entertained when you are away, but also happy.

Dogs that can be left alone can be prone to separation anxiety, which is why toys can help them stay focused on the current moment, and not cry and wait until you will return.

7. Turn On The TV / Play Your Favorite Music

A lot of dog owners claim their dogs enjoy watching TV, especially when there are some animals involved.

Turn on the TV and put some animal channels that will catch your dog’s attention.

If you can’t find anything similar, play your favorite TV series or what you generally watch at home. This way, your pup will have an impression that not a lot has changed even if you’ve left.

Playing your favorite music might also remind him that you’re practically there.

Hearing the notes of that song you always put on repeat will have a soothing effect on your dog.

8. Don’t Make A Big Deal Out Of It

It might be difficult for you not to overdo your goodbyes and use that baby voice to tell your dog how much you’re going to miss him before you are stepping out of the door. However, this behavior seems to be counterproductive.

The more you make a big deal out of the goodbyes and your arrival after work, the more anxious and stressed your dog will be. This way you are only encouraging unwanted behavior.

Instead, reward your pup when he’s calm and relaxed despite you’re leaving.

9. Go Tech

If you’re a fan of new tech stuff, you can buy a pup cam. This way you will be just two clicks away from communicating with your dog wherever you are.

Additionally, you will get a free security system that might be as well useful.

10. Potty Train

If you want to leave your home in peace, you will have to be sure your pup is well-potty-trained. Therefore, start potty-training your dog at an early age.

Some small-sized dog breeds have naturally smaller bladders which makes not going to pee for such long hours an impossible task to do.

In that case, you should try to train your dog to use canine litter boxes or pee pads.

You should keep in mind that forcing your dog to hold its pee for too long could potentially lead to unwanted health conditions, such as urinary tract infections or urinary crystals and stones, so you shouldn’t leave your dog alone for too long.

11. Take Your Dog to Work

Is your company pet-friendly by any chance?

Take a profit from it and bring your dog with you! Be careful with this one, and make sure that everyone is OK with you taking the dog with you.

If you have a colleague who suffers from some sort of allergies you may discuss bringing a dog to work with you first.

If your dog can be left alone, you may want to try to make a balance. Have days when you get to take Fido with you and days when a dog walker, or a dog sitter, might jump in.

After all, if your dog is used to being left alone make sure that you leave a TV on, and that toys stuffed with treats are around.

He will surely enjoy your and your colleagues’ company while you work.

12. Get a Doggy Door

If you have a home with a fenced yard, you might want to buy a Doggy door.

This way, your pup will be able to enter and exit the house according to his own will, and he will easily walk out to relieve himself or simply enjoy nature in their own way.

13. Take Your Dog Out Before Leaving

By walking your dog out before you leave, you will tire him out which would probably leave him with more time to spend on sleeping.

On the other hand, lack of exercise can result in restless behavior which can end up in plenty of bad consequences that you don’t want to find when you arrive home.

14. Play Relaxing Music For Dogs

Lastly, you can also play some relaxing music designed for dogs that are found to soothe anxiety in our canine friends.

Check this one out and let us know if it worked! (Namely, it works on humans too)

Check out our video of 10 independent dog breeds that won’t cry or squeal when left home alone.

Dogs That Can Be Left Alone – Final Word

As you learned, all dogs need to spend time on physical activity and social interactions. However, certain breeds can be left alone for a longer period (and no longer than eight hours).

Before you leave your dog home alone, be sure to provide it with enough food and water, some mental stimulation (toys), and take it out for a walk before leaving and as soon as possible after you’re back home.

Listed canines adapt well to apartment living, but regular walks are required to avoid unwanted behavior – barking, yodeling, and destroying toys, plants, and other things in your apartment.

Frequently Asked Questions On Dogs That Can Be Left Alone

1. Can I Leave My Dog Alone For 20 Hours?

Simply said, no. Owning a job is a huge responsibility and you should always thrive to meet your dog’s needs.

Leaving a dog for 20 hours, even if they can hold on to pee, is very unhealthy.

As mentioned in the article, dogs should not be left alone for more than four hours in a row. They need regular walks, fresh water, and companionship.

2. Is It OK To Leave My Dog Alone For 24 Hours?

Doing this is far from being ok. You don’t want to leave your dog for a such long period.

During this period your dog will need a potty break, exercise, water, and food.

If you know that you will be away for a long time, ask a friend to step in, or hire a dog walker or sitter.

3. Is It OK To Leave A Dog Alone Overnight?

Dogs thrive on pack members, both animals, and humans. As such, they may feel neglected, bored, and eventually destructive.

Do not leave your dog alone overnight, or for any other very long periods.