Bringing a new puppy into your home is an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience, but what do you do if you need to step out of the house? Here, our Cumming vets share some tips for leaving your puppy at home alone for the first time and how pet boarding may offer a solution.
Leaving Your Puppy Home Alone
Your puppy is like a child, they require constant care and attention and if you plan on leaving the house you will need to make some preparations. After all, leaving your puppy outside during the day while you are away from home isn't an option.
The key is to reduce anxiety for both you and your dog when you first are separated. It can be heartbreaking to know that your puppy cries when left alone, but this reaction can be managed if your puppy is properly prepared for your time away.
Below we will give you some tips to make the first time leaving your dog alone a calmer experience.
Can I leave my 8-week-old puppy home alone?
There will be times when you need to leave the house, whether for work or errands. So, can you leave your puppy home alone? Unfortunately, it gets tricky at this stage as you should not be leaving your puppy alone for extended periods until they are at least 3 months old. So if you need to step away, it should be very brief and if possible you should consider alternative care for that time.
Preparing to Leave a Puppy Alone at Home for the First Time
Things you want to do before you leave your puppy alone:
- House train your dog. There is nothing worse than coming home to a mess because your dog decided to destroy things as a way to deal with their anxiety.
- Have some puppy-free time at home. Try not to spend all of your time focused on your puppy. This will allow them to get used to not having your attention every second of the day. This can be as simple as closing the door when you take your shower or not acknowledging them while you are reading a book.
- Set up a space for your puppy where they can access their water, food, bed and toys. Having the necessities of life in easy access removes a lot of stress.
- Puppy-proof all spaces your dog will have access to while you are away. You might want to baby-gate them in or keep them in one room
- Have your puppy meet other people. This means if you need to take them to a sitter or have someone check in on them they are less stressed.
Tips to Make Your Puppy's Time Alone a Success
Following the tips below should help to make your puppy's first time home alone a little less traumatic for you and your four-legged friend.
- Start small. Go out by yourself and take a walk around the neighborhood and gradually increase the length of your outings
- Do not make a production out of leaving. Leave calmly. If you are calm your dog has a better chance of being calm.
- Return calmly. If you don't make a scene about coming home your dog will be more likely to be able to treat your coming and going as routine resulting in a calmer dog.
- Leave some clothes you have worn so they have your scent. Dogs have a great sense of smell and can be comforted by familiar scents.
Alternative Care for Your Puppy
If leaving your puppy alone isn't working, or if you need to be out of the house for extended periods there are a few options you could try, that may help to make your puppy's time away from you more enjoyable:
Ask a Friend to Hang Out With Your Puppy
Have a friend or family member drop in to play with your pup. Your puppy is bound to enjoy some company for a while, and they will appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and head outside for a bathroom break.
Hire a Dog Walker or Sitter
Hire a dog walker. Although you will want to be sure that your puppy is walking alone until they have all of their vaccinations, walking with a professional can be great fun for puppies. your dog will get a bathroom break while also learning new skills, and having fun.
Consider Doggy Daycare/Boarding
A doggy daycare or boarding facility can be a fun place for dogs of all ages to spend time. Different dog daycares have different setups but many have fun play areas that look a lot like a child's playground where the dogs can run, play and socialize. The best part is that your dog will come home tired and happy!
We know how stressful leaving your beloved furry companion can be so our team at Animal Medical Center of Cumming offers dog boarding in a safe and comfortable environment. Speak with us today to learn more.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.