How long can I leave my puppy alone at home?

While it may be unavoidable to leave your puppy alone, doing so over a longer period of time can have a negative effect on their development, both physically and emotionally. 

First and foremost, if you have just gotten a puppy, you should not leave it alone. This especially hold true for putting them in a kennel all by themselves and leaving them there. This will in all likelihood cause severe behavioral problems later on, because the puppy might experience being alone as traumatic. Young dogs are social animals. They are highly vulnerable and dependent. They need someone, a companion (such as another dog, preferably adult, or a human being). So don´t leave a young pup alone. 

Once you´ve had your pup for a while, the amount of time you can leave it alone at home largely depends on their age. Generally speaking, puppies should not be left alone for more than three hours at a time, and no more than four or five hours at most. Many experts suggest limiting the time to two hours or less for puppies that are younger than four months.

When a puppy is left alone for too long, it can lead to anxiety and separation-related issues. This is because puppies are social animals and need companionship. When left alone for extended periods, they can become bored, lonely, and even destructive. This can lead to them barking, chewing on furniture, or having accidents in the house.

If you must leave your puppy alone, it’s important to provide them with plenty of stimulation. This can include toys, chew items, and food puzzles. You should also provide them with a comfortable place to rest, such as a bed or crate. 

Finally, it’s important to consider your puppy’s individual needs when deciding how long they can be left alone. Some puppies may be able to handle longer periods of time alone, while others may struggle with even a few hours. It is best to observe your puppy’s behavior and adjust accordingly. For anxious puppys the best strategy is to start with short period of time, perhaps only a few minutes at first and then go back into the house, and then extend this gradually. This way they´ll learn to understand that you haven´t left them for good but always return home.