Leaving Your Puppy Home Alone: Tips and Tricks
Leaving your best friend alone at home can be a daunting task.
If you have a puppy, the situation could be worse, as they are more likely to suffer from anxiety when left alone. However, with the right approach, you can teach your puppy to be alone and be calm about it.
Use a Crate or Playpen
The first step in leaving your puppy home alone is to create a safe and comfortable space for them. You can use a crate or a playpen to restrict your puppy's movement and prevent them from accessing any dangerous items in the house. Ensure that you choose the right size of the crate/playpen for your puppy and leave them with enough food, water, and toys to keep them busy.
Start Gradually
Puppies are known for their short attention span, and they can quickly get anxious when you leave them alone. Start gradually by leaving your puppy for short periods, such as 10 minutes, then extend the time gradually. This approach will help your puppy get used to being alone at home and reduce their anxiety when you eventually leave for a longer period.
Start Teaching Them to be Alone While You Are Still Home
Another tip is to start teaching your puppy to be alone while you are still at home. You can start by leaving them for a few minutes in the crate or the playpen in a separate room while you do other things around the house. This method will help your puppy understand that being alone is not always a bad thing and that you will always come back to them.
Use Lots of Chews and Toys
To keep your puppy busy and reduce their anxiety when you are away, give them lots of chews and toys to play with. Chewing can help puppies relieve stress and keep them occupied, making it easier for them to be alone. You can also leave them with puzzle toys that require them to find treats, which will keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom.
Leaving your puppy home alone can be a challenging task, but with patience and the right approach, you can help them overcome their anxiety and feel comfortable being alone. Remember to start gradually, use a crate or playpen, and provide plenty of toys and chews to keep them busy. With time, your puppy will learn to be alone and enjoy their alone time without any anxiety.
