Teaching Your Dog to Stay Alone at Home

If your pet is accustomed to constant human presence, start preparing them for your impending absence by giving them short periods of alone time.

Provide them with an enriched environment, and with positive encouragement, they will learn to stay alone and enjoy the entire experience.

There are plenty of things you can do to gradually train your dog to stay alone.

Socialize your dog: Help them get used to being around people from the beginning. It will be much easier to leave them with a dog sitter or with family and friends if the need ever arises. From day one, especially if they are a puppy, try not to over-indulge them or interact with them too much. Leave them alone for some time.

Alternate the days when you pay attention to them with days when you don't.

If you have children, explain to them that the puppy also needs some personal time sometimes. Never start by leaving the puppy or dog alone for an extended period. This process should be gradual.

Start with short absences and increase the time as they become comfortable and relaxed with your previous absence. If they regress by showing excessive excitement upon your return or are unable to remain calm when you leave, start the process from the beginning.

Start at home: If your dog is accustomed to staying in the same room as you or following you everywhere, ask them to stay while you move away from the room for a short time. Reward them once they remain calm. If your four-legged friend tolerates the exercise, try leaving the house briefly and return.

Don't delay in greeting your dog, and avoid making a fuss or drawing excessive attention to your presence when you return home. The goal is for them to perceive your absence and return as a normal state.

Some trainers suggest leaving your home without informing your dog. In other words, leave and come back without giving them any attention several times a day.

If you plan to be away for an extended period, take your dog for a walk or engage in any other form of physical activity before leaving.

They will feel more relaxed while you are away and might even take a nap.