Getting a new puppy is an exciting time. Between all the puppy snuggles, training, and trips outside for potty breaks, your schedule revolves around your furry friend. But what happens when you need to leave your puppy alone? How long is too long to leave a young puppy by themselves?
Knowing the answer to “how long can you leave a puppy alone?” is important for their health and safety. Puppies need lots of attention, supervision, and care. Leaving them alone for too long can lead to behavior issues, accidents, and stress.
In this article, we’ll cover how long and at what age you can leave a puppy home alone. We’ll also give tips for setting up your pup for success when you do need to leave them by themselves.
How Long Can You Leave an 8 Week Old Puppy Alone?
Eight weeks is the earliest age most puppies leave their litter to go to their new home. At this young age, they should never be left alone for more than 1-2 hours.
Puppies this young need constant supervision. They are still developing bladder and bowel control so they need frequent potty breaks. It’s also a critical socialization period, and puppies learn best through positive interactions with their human family.
If you must leave an 8 week old puppy alone:
- Keep them in a safe, confined area like a crate or small room. Make sure it’s puppy-proofed with no dangers or toxic items.
- Take them outside right before you leave so they can relieve themselves.
- Leave some safe chew toys to occupy them while you’re gone.
- Keep the visit very brief, no longer than 1-2 hours.
Any longer than this risks potty training setbacks, problem behaviors from stress or loneliness, and missing out on important socialization. It’s best to have someone come check on an 8 week old pup every 1-2 hours whenever possible.
How Long Can You Leave a 12 Week Old Puppy Alone?
At 12 weeks, puppies are a little more independent but still require a lot of supervision. At this age, they can be left alone for 2-3 hours at a time, as long as their needs are met.
To leave a 12 week old puppy briefly:
- Take them outside immediately before you go so they can go potty.
- Make sure they have access to fresh water.
- Leave age-appropriate chew toys to keep them occupied.
- Come home after 2 or 3 hours maximum.
Any longer could cause them to have an accident. Three hours should be the limit for leaving a 12 week old puppy alone. If you’ll be gone 4+ hours, make arrangements for someone to come let them out.
How Long Can You Leave a 4 Month Old Puppy Alone?
By 4 months old, puppies have better bladder and bowel control. They’re also more independent and can start learning to self-settle when left alone. At this age, they can be left for 3-4 hours at a time.
To leave a 4 month old puppy:
- Take them for a brisk walk before you go to tire them out.
- Make sure they’ve relieved themselves outside right before being left alone.
- Leave safe toys and chews they can occupy themselves with.
- Limit time alone to 3-4 hours maximum.
Although a 4 month old puppy can last a little longer, it’s still important not to leave them for extended periods of time. Have someone stop in at least once if you’ll be gone more than 4 hours.
How Long Can You Leave a 6 Month Old Puppy Alone?
Six months is a nice milestone for independence. House training should be well established by now. Puppies this age can last 4-5 hours on their own as long as their needs are met.
When leaving a 6 month old puppy:
- Take them for exercise before you go so they’re tired out.
- Give them a potty break right before you leave.
- Leave access to water and toys.
- Limit alone time to 4-5 hours maximum.
Although a 6 month old puppy is reliable for short stints alone, they still need companionship and activity. If you’ll be gone longer than 5 hours, have someone stop by or take them to doggy daycare.
At What Age Can You Leave a Puppy Alone for 8 Hours?
Most puppies can’t last a whole 8-hour workday alone until closer to 6-8 months old. Although some mature puppies may be ready at 5 months, it’s best to be conservative and wait until at least 6 months.
Factors to consider before leaving a puppy alone all day:
- House training is extremely reliable and accident-free.
- They can settle calmly in their crate or pen for several hours at a time.
- Destructive chewing tendencies have decreased.
- They get adequate exercise before and after being left alone.
- You ease them into longer time periods on their own.
Starting with 4-5 hours alone and gradually increasing duration based on their tolerance level is recommended. Every puppy is different, so watch their behavior. If they seem stressed or have accidents, go back to a shorter alone time and try again in a few weeks.
With proper crate training and exercise, most healthy 6 month old puppies can manage a workday alone. But every pup matures at their own pace, so get to know your individual puppy.
Tips for Leaving Your Puppy Alone
Whenever you must leave a puppy alone, setting them up for success is key. Here are some tips:
- Ensure they’ve relieved themselves first – Take them outside right before you leave so their bladder and bowels are empty.
- Exercise beforehand – A brisk walk or play session tires them out so they’re more likely to settle calmly.
- Leave in a safe space – A crate or puppy-proofed room with no hazards or harmful items.
- Offer puzzle toys and chews – Keeps their brain and mouth occupied while you’re gone.
- Don’t make a big fuss leaving – Calm exits help them learn to settle when alone.
- Keep goodbyes brief – Limit to 5-10 minutes then exit calmly and quietly.
With proper preparation, you can leave your puppy briefly as they grow. Just be sure to set them up for success and avoid pushing the time limits too much. Get to know your individual puppy and adjust as needed. With time and maturity, they’ll become more independent.
Common Puppy Alone Time Questions
How long can I leave my 3 month old puppy alone?
3 month old puppies can be left alone for 2-3 hours at a time as long as their needs are met. Any longer risks potty training and behavior issues.
Can I leave my 2 month old puppy alone while at work?
No, 2 month old puppies should never be left alone for a full work day. They require constant care and supervision at that age.
What if my puppy cries when I leave?
It’s normal for puppies to cry at first when left alone. Try distracting with a treat toy and keep greetings/goodbyes low-key. Crying should decrease with proper crate training.
How can I get my puppy used to being alone?
Start with very brief alone times and reward calm behavior. Gradually increase duration. Give a food puzzle toy and make sure needs are met before leaving.
Can I just leave my puppy in the yard while gone?
Never leave a puppy unsupervised in the yard, even in a fenced area. They can escape, injure themselves, or get into unsafe items. Always keep puppies inside when you’re away.
Knowing “how long can you leave a puppy alone” ultimately depends on your individual puppy and their needs. While these age guidelines provide a helpful starting point, be sure to check with your veterinarian. With proper preparation and increasing time limits gradually, you can ensure your puppy stays safe and comfortable while briefly home alone!
