How to Leave a Puppy Alone for 4 Hours

Leaving a puppy home alone presents special challenges. Your puppy may not wish you to leave him alone, as dogs are social creatures. He may not realize that you will return home soon and may feel abandoned. Reassuring your puppy that alone time is only temporary will bring you both peace of mind.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate
  • Baby gate
  • Blanket
  • Pillow
  • Television
  • Radio
  • Dog treats
  • Chew toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up an area exclusively for your puppy. This can be a crate or a room blocked with a baby gate where he cannot chew up anything. During housebreaking, the space should be large enough for the puppy to sleep in one area and relieve himself in another.

    • 2

      Give the puppy plenty of food and water. Use heavier dishes if your puppy likes to tip them over. Give him a treat or chew toy whenever you need to leave, to occupy his time and to make alone time more desirable.

    • 3

      Include a blanket, pillow or other bedding for your puppy. Items used by you that carry your scent can comfort your puppy. A television or radio can provide comforting background noise.

    • 4

      Train your puppy to get used to separation from you. Put your puppy in his contained area and then go into the next room for a half hour. If he whines or barks, leave him alone for the time allotted unless you think he̵7;s in pain. Gradually build up the time until he is comfortable for 4 hours.

    • 5

      Praise your puppy when you return. Reassure him that he was a good dog for staying at home by himself. Give him a treat and a chance to relieve himself.