No puppy, or dog for that matter, should be left alone for long periods of time. Dogs that are left alone for significant periods can develop anxiety and an inability to cope with being separated from their owners.
You can easily teach your puppy to tolerate short absences by leaving him in a room, closing the door and walking away. After a few minutes, go back in but don't greet him. When you've done this several times, extend the absences to 30 minutes. But if he begins to get distressed, and starts barking, chewing, or scratching at the door, you should shorten the absence period.
Before you leave, try these simple tips to help your puppy settle down while you are out:
Tasty Tips
- Walk your puppy or play with him in advance of leaving so he has a chance to spend his excess energy
- Shortly before you leave, you may want to provide a meal of puppy food so he's likely to be sleepy. Using a puzzle toy for food can also provide entertainment and distraction from your absence.
- Some growing puppies will be comforted by familiar sounds, so you could try leaving the radio on
If your puppy has growing concerns about being left alone, even for short periods of time, ask your vet for advice.
Related products
Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Related articles
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Learn what you can feed your pregnant or nursing dog to keep her and her new pups healthy.
Things You Can Do to Help Your Dog's Sensitive Stomach
A dog with a sensitive stomach has special needs. Learn more about sensitive stomach symptoms in your dog, what you can do to help sooth your pet’s insides and get recommendations on sensitive stomach dog food.
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Selecting the right food for your puppy is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life., Learn more about how to select the right puppy food.
Helpful Tips for Exercising with Your Dog
Though it may seem like your four-legged friend loves nothing more than to nap on the couch, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy just like people do.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.