Leaving your new puppy at home while you go to work can be tough—for both you and your pup. Puppies require attention, consistency, and supervision, which might seem impossible to manage during your 9-to-5. However, with a little planning, patience, and the right tools, you can create a safe, enriching environment that keeps your puppy happy and healthy while you’re away.
Table of Contents
- Why Planning Matters for Your Puppy
- How Long Can a Puppy Be Left Alone?
- Create a Safe Space for Your Puppy
- Establish a Potty Routine
- Entertainment and Enrichment
- Hiring Help or Using Dog Daycare
- Monitoring Your Puppy While You’re Away
- Training for Independence
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Planning Matters for Your Puppy
Puppies thrive on routine and structure. Without proper planning, they can quickly develop anxiety, destructive behaviors, and potty training setbacks. Establishing a schedule and environment that caters to your puppy’s developmental needs will ease the transition when you’re not at home.
How Long Can a Puppy Be Left Alone?
As a general rule, puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age. For example, a 2-month-old puppy shouldn’t be left alone for more than 2 hours. If you’re gone for a full workday, it’s crucial to build in potty breaks and supervision.
Create a Safe Space for Your Puppy
Designating a confined, puppy-proofed area is essential. This could be:
- A crate for short durations—helps with potty training and gives a sense of security.
- A playpen with access to toys, water, and a pee pad for longer periods.
- A puppy-proofed room like a laundry room or kitchen with blocked-off access.
Establish a Potty Routine
Consistency is key. Puppies need to relieve themselves:
- After waking up
- After eating or drinking
- After playing
- Every 2-3 hours depending on age
If you can’t come home during lunch, hire a dog walker or ask a neighbor for help.
Entertainment and Enrichment
To avoid boredom (a root cause of chewing and barking), provide safe and stimulating activities, such as:
- KONG toys stuffed with peanut butter or frozen treats
- Puzzle feeders to challenge their brains
- Chew toys like nylabones or bully sticks
- Background noise such as TV or soft music
Hiring Help or Using Dog Daycare
Many working puppy parents rely on support systems, including:
- Professional dog walkers for midday potty and playtime
- Friends or family for occasional check-ins
- Dog daycare—great for socialization and energy release
Monitoring Your Puppy While You’re Away
Technology can give peace of mind:
- Pet cameras with two-way audio
- Smart feeders and water dispensers
- Temperature monitors for safety
Training for Independence
Teaching your puppy to feel comfortable alone helps prevent separation anxiety:
- Start with short absences and gradually increase duration
- Avoid dramatic greetings and farewells
- Encourage alone time even when you’re home
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make sure my puppy is safe while I’m at work?
Create a secure, puppy-proof space with no access to harmful objects. Use gates, crates, or pens, and provide toys and water.
Is it okay to crate my puppy for 8 hours?
No, 8 hours is too long for most puppies. Use a playpen or arrange for a dog walker to give breaks during the day.
What if my puppy cries when I leave?
Whining is common at first. Train gradually for independence using short absences, rewarding calm behavior, and offering engaging toys.
Can I use a doggy daycare every day?
Yes, if it’s a reputable facility and your puppy is vaccinated. Many dogs thrive with the social interaction and structure daycare provides.
Will my puppy forget me during the day?
Absolutely not. Puppies have strong bonds with their owners and will be excited to see you when you return.
Final Thoughts
Leaving a puppy at home while you work doesn’t mean compromising their care or development. With planning, consistency, and the right tools or support, your puppy can learn to thrive during your workday. Investing time early on will help raise a confident, happy, and well-adjusted dog.
