Although a dog can spend eight hours alone at home it is better not to be like that. Remember that dogs are very social animals and like to have company, so it is recommended that we avoid this situation if we can.
In the event that it is something irremediable you must prepare the house so that the hours your furry spends alone are as pleasant as possible. Change his toys every day so he doesn't get bored, avoid risks and take a long walk before leaving the house. Also, you should go spend time with him as soon as the eight hours are up so he doesn't get stressed, depressed, or relieve himself at home.
Dog's age
It is important to consider the dog's age when leaving it alone for so many hours, since its diet and hygiene vary greatly from one dog to another. puppy to an adult. Puppies eat up to four times a day while an adult can eat two or even once. This means that a small dog should only be alone for up to six hours to fit all the meal times.
In addition, a puppy still does not know where and when to relieve itself, so it must be taken out more often than an adult. A puppy alone for so many hours will pee and poop all over the house. A he althy adult should last up to eight hours without doing the business of him if you have taken him out just before leaving.
A puppy is a baby and needs constant attention, so if you are going to spend up to eight hours away from home you have to make sure that there is someone else who can take care of him while you are away. A puppy can't be home alone for eight hours.
Is your dog used to being alone?
If your dog is very attached to you and is not used to you leaving home for so long, it is likely that he suffers from separation anxiety. If this is the case, it is recommended that you train him little by little to stay alone and calm before leaving for eight hours in a row. If it is hopeless, you can give the keys to your house to someone to visit and spend time with him
In order for him to be calmer during all those hours alone, it is advisable to give him a good walk before you leave and let him discharge all his energy. This way he will be tired when he gets home and will want to sleep and rest.
You must take into account if the dog is going to spend eight hours alone on a one-off basis or if it is going to be something everyday due, for example, to work. If it is something that is going to be repeated over time you should train your dog well so that it can last for so many hours.
In case you have a break you could go visit it or, as we mentioned before, give the keys to someone you trust. Remember that the dog is a social animal and needs company, although he can spend eight hours alone, he will be happier and have less stress if he shares his time
Steps to follow before leaving home
Here are some tips so that your dog can be home alone for eight hours without risk:
- Check doors and windows carefully. You must not leave any door or window open. This way you will prevent your dog from running away or falling.
- The kitchen is always closed. In the kitchen there can be many dangers for the animal if it is alone. You may find something to eat that doesn't feel right.
- Chemical products well stored. Of course, all cleaning products and any toxic products must be stored in a cabinet so that the dog does not have access to them. You should also empty the mop bucket so that it doesn't drink from there.
- The house must be tidy. If your dog gets bored, he won't hesitate to grab any object within his reach, he can destroy you something that you are very fond of or can get hurt by some things.
- No wires in sight. The dog can chew them and render them useless, or even get electrocuted.
- Food and drink. Make sure you leave him clean water and, if you want, some food so that the time he is alone does not too hungry.
