By Aarushi Bhadury
Dogs are one of the most loyal and loveable pets’ people have. Having someone who will always look forward to you coming back, no matter how often you go and someone who is willing to offer you unconditional love is a blessing for many. While dog parents are intuitive to their dog’s needs, the fact remains that one must be proactive with their pets’ care. When dogs reach a certain age like 6 months or older, it is ok to leave them home alone for bout 6-8 hours. They are smart and understanding creatures who may be anxious at first but slowly get used to it. This makes it easier for pet parents to run errands, go to work as well as prepare for other emergency situations. But you cannot leave without taking some precautions, there are still some things you should consider before you leave your pup to fend for themselves even for a few hours. What Do Dog Trainers Want You To Do?In a TikTok video, Sarah Hodgson is a dog trainer, podcaster, pet behaviour consultant, explains that while dogs may be able to stay alone for a few hours, one must teach them to be comfortable with It. Dogs love being around people, so it’s normal for them to feel a bit anxious when left alone, especially for the first time. But to make sure your pup slowly learns how to feel safe in these situations Sarah suggests you make that place your dog’s safe space. When you leave your house, you want your dog to be relaxed. You don’t want them to be worried or angry. Sarah says that if you leave your dog in a room with open windows facing the street, they’ll act like “border patrol.” Every time something passes by or they hear a sound, they’ll bark and act like they’re protecting their space. This is natural for some dogs, especially those that like to protect. Here are some other things you should keep in consideration. Create a Comfy, Safe SpotInstead of leaving your dog to roam freely, Sarah suggests making a safe and comfy place especially for them when you leave. This could be a secure crate they enjoy or a special room in your house. The key is ensuring this designated area feels truly comforting and like a secure den where your dog can relax undisturbed. Block Out Loud NoisesTo further help your dog relax, Sarah recommends playing calming music or gentle sounds. This clever tactic helps to block out jarring noises from outside your home, like traffic or neighbours. By dampening these external distractions, your dog is less likely to react with barking or anxiety to every little sound, promoting a peaceful environment. Stay Calm When You Come HomeWhen you return, make greeting your dog a joyful occasion, but crucially, remain calm yourself. Your dog is incredibly sensitive to your energy and will often mirror your mood. Sarah emphasizes that a calm homecoming routine contributes to a more relaxed dog throughout the entire day, impacting their behaviour even when greeting visitors or enjoying walks outside. Tips for Teaching Your Dog to Be Alone Dogs Trust, a big dog charity in the UK, also has some good tips: Teach them early: The more you teach your dog about being alone before you actually need to leave, the easier it will be. Make their bed cozy: Give them a comfy bed or even a little “doggy den.” Start with small breaks: Use baby gates to get them used to being in a different room for short times. Help them relax: Teach your dog to settle down quietly when you’re busy, instead of always giving them attention when they follow you around. Increase time slowly: Start by leaving them alone for short periods while you’re still in the house, then slowly make those times longer when you actually leave.