Training the dog to be alone at home

Train you dog to be alone – step by step

1. Get started carefully
   Initially introduce time spent apart by using safety gates across doorways. You should train the dog for short periods of time. You may, for example, set up a grid or barrier to a room and go in for a short period of time.
2. Provide more time and training opportunities
   Train your dog frequently and briefly at first. When the dog becomes accustomed to being away from you, you can extend the time you are away. In the beginning, you may need to spend a few minutes in another room. Next, spend a quarter of an hour sitting outside the front door. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends alone in the home, it is important to monitor how your dog responds, shorten time spent alone if your dog shows any signs of anxiety.
3. Consistency is the key
   Maintain a consistent training schedule. Dogs learn more easily if they are trained frequently, forming a habit.

Tips for solo training

Training can sometimes be a bit slow, and a little extra effort is required to succeed. Here are some additional tips to help your dog learn solitude.

• Initially introduce time spent apart by using safety gates across doorways
• Train the dog when it is tired, for example after a walk.
• Make sure they have everything that they need, comfy bed, food and water.
• It is a good idea to leave old item of clothing that smells like you and leaving on TV/Radio might help them feel relaxed
• Don’t punish dog if has done something naughty while away like toileting in the house, instead reward your pet if they are calm and relaxed when you return.
• If the dog becomes completely desperate, you should back off a few steps.
• Do not give up! For some dogs, it takes a long time to learn to be alone at home.

Tips for puppy training

It is a wise idea to start training a puppy at an early age. However, wait until the puppy feels secure in its new home. Start at a slow pace when the puppy is ready. Start with short moments, then increase as the puppy gets used to it. It takes a few minutes at first. Eventually, you’ll be able to leave for longer periods of time. Leaving the radio or television on or leaving a Kong toy on will keep your dog busy and entertained. But remember that a puppy should not be alone for too long.

Be dynamic in your approach

Some dogs cope well with being alone for longer periods of time. You should adapt both the training and the time your dog is alone to your dog’s needs.