As your puppy gets older gradually increase the total amount of time you leave them alone. Adult dogs are generally okay on their own for 4-6 hours a day. But, many dogs are good at adapting to being alone for 8-9 hours while you are at work if they are provided with enough space to comfortably move around.
There is some wiggle room, provided that your pooch has access to enough food and water, as well as a place to go potty if they need to. However, even if their basic needs are met, you shouldn't leave your pet alone and unsupervised for more than 8 hours a day.
Some households have an easier time if there is another person in the home who has a slightly different schedule. It would appear that many dogs can adapt to being alone for 8-9 hours at a time provided they have a means to potty and have adequate room to move.
Most experts agree you shouldn't leave your adult dog alone for more than eight to 10 hours, but some dogs (especially ones with small bladders) can't last that long.
Keeping Your Dog Happy Around the Clock
Leaving your dog at home while at work should be a guilt-free experience. As long as you stick to a proper routine and show your dog lots of affection when you come home, you will both be on your way to enjoying alone time any time of the week!
The length of time a dog can be left alone depends on the individual dog but we advise that they are left for no longer than four hours so they have opportunities to exercise, go to the toilet, and spend time with people.
It's normal to feel guilty about leaving your furry friend alone. But, as long as you're still getting their exercise in (especially before you leave) and don't make a big deal about leaving, then your canine companion should do just fine.
The PDSA says dogs shouldn't be left alone on a regular basis for more than four hours. Modern Dog Magazine says crated dogs shouldn't be left home alone for more than three or four hours. PAWS Chicago, a nonprofit no-kill shelter, says five to six hours is the max for an adult dog.
While your dog will remember you leaving the house, they most likely won't understand how long you were away. When dogs are left alone, sometimes they become stressed (stemming from their separation anxiety), indicating that they have an awareness of the passage of time.
The length of time they could stand isolation would also depend on the dog's personality or breed, but generally, dogs should be allowed to relieve themselves every four hours. Most experts also agree that 8-10 hours should be about the longest period you can leave a dog alone, provided he has access to food and water.
Consider doggy daycare
If your dogs don't do well at home alone or you work long hours, doggy daycare is an excellent option. Even if it's just a few times a week, daycare can make a huge difference — your pup can socialize with other dogs, play, and get the exercise they need.
If you notice a behavior change in your pet due to being alone too long, it could be a sign to take some action. Examples of behavior changes include increased lethargy, depression or disinterest in once-beloved activities, and destructive tendencies.
Dogs of any breed (including crossbreeds) and either gender may develop separation anxiety. This disorder mostly affects young dogs who are three or less than three years of age (approximately 60%); the occurrence of separation anxiety reduces in their middle age. It is more common again when their age is around 8.
Separation anxiety is triggered when dogs become upset because of separation from their guardians, the people they're attached to. Escape attempts by dogs with separation anxiety are often extreme and can result in self-injury and household destruction, especially around exit points like windows and doors.
The television affects every dog differently.
While it's generally OK for dogs to watch television, the colors, sounds and content can make some dogs feel anxious.
Most dogs spend a lot of their time catching some Z's. When you're not home to keep your pet busy, they'll likely find a comfortable place to cuddle up and take a siesta. If you're gone for a longer period of time, your pet might even take a few naps.
Studies show that dogs form positive associations with their favorite people, and they don't like being separated from you for long. Dogs can handle alone time, but they do miss you when you're gone.
Dogs know based on their experiences.
They're very good at picking up on subtle cues like reading body language, changes in the environment, and listening to sounds. And not just your own signals, but maybe the sound of a neighbor's car that starts up a few minutes before you arrive home.
We know dogs have circadian rhythms, and are sensitive to day and night, as well as certain times of day. We know through living with dogs that they know when it's time to go to bed and when it's time to eat. Certainly a part of this is based on circadian rhythms and past experiences.
For dogs without separation anxiety, petting dogs goodbye might actually keep them calmer while you're away. I searched and found two studies that could shed a bit more light on the effects of enthusiastic goodbyes. The first was conducted by a group of researchers from the University of Pisa in 2018.
If possible, dogs older than 6 months should not be left alone for longer than 4 hours at a time. If this is difficult, the absolute maximum time for them to be alone is 8 hours, but this is only recommended if your dog has a way to get outside for a bathroom break.
As a general rule, your dog should never be left alone for more than four hours at a time. However, this will greatly depend on your dog, their age, breed and how they cope with being on their own in the house. Some may struggle being away from their owners for this long and others will be unphased.
Reviewed by Dr Jill McMaster BVM&S MBA MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and in-house expert at BorrowMyDoggy on 6 June 2023. The short answer is yes. One of the emotions dogs can feel is loneliness. As you may know, dogs are pack animals and social creatures, and for this reason, they don't like spending too much time alone.
Raised hackles are an undeniable physical sign of your dog's discomfort. Pacing: Your pet might walk back and forth nervously if feeling stressed. Shaking or trembling: This behavior is an obvious sign of dog stress. Whining, barking, or growling: Your pet will often “talk” to you when feeling uncomfortable.