We get it—leaving your dog home alone can feel just as tough on you as it does on them. But the good news is that with a little planning, your dog’s solo time doesn’t have to be stressful or dull. In fact, it can be peaceful, enriching, and even enjoyable. Whether you're heading out for the workday or running errands, this guide will help you build routines, use smart enrichment tools, and reduce anxiety—so your dog can thrive, even when you're not home.
Start the Day Right: The Power of Pre-Departure Exercise
A tired dog is a relaxed dog. Physical activity helps burn off excess energy and releases feel-good hormones that support a calm mindset.
Before you leave the house, aim for:
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A brisk 20–30 minute walk
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A game of fetch or tug
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A few rounds of training for mental and physical stimulation
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A visit to daycare for extra play and socialization (half-day options are great!)
This pre-departure routine helps your dog settle more easily once you’re gone, and it can prevent the kind of pent-up energy that often leads to destructive behaviors or barking.
Set the Stage: A Calm and Predictable Exit Routine
One of the most overlooked (but powerful) tools for creating calm alone-time? The way you leave.
When you make a big fuss—lots of attention, hugs, high-pitched goodbyes—it can signal to your dog that something dramatic is about to happen. That creates anxiety. The same goes for your return if you greet them with over-the-top excitement the second you walk in.
Try This Calm Routine:
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Exercise
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Breakfast or frozen food toy
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Soft music or white noise
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Special long-lasting treat as you leave
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Quiet, neutral goodbye—just slip out!
Consistency and calm help your dog understand that being alone is just part of the day—not something to fear.
Prevention is Powerful: Separation Anxiety Isn’t Inevitable
We hear it a lot: “My dog has separation anxiety.” And while some dogs are naturally more sensitive, true separation anxiety isn’t a guaranteed outcome—it’s often preventable with the right training from the start.
Here’s what you can do to prevent separation issues in puppies or newly adopted dogs:
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Practice short absences early and often—starting with a few seconds
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Pair absences with something positive, like a chew or puzzle toy
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Create a calm, cozy space where your dog feels safe
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Avoid dramatic greetings and goodbyes
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Encourage independence with gentle boundaries and downtime away from you
It’s much easier to build these habits from the start than to reverse patterns of panic. You’re teaching your dog, lovingly and patiently, that alone time is okay—and even enjoyable.
Top Tools to Beat Boredom and Boost Calm
A thoughtful combination of enrichment and comfort can transform your dog’s day. Here are our favorite categories (and some top picks from the shop!):
1. Long-Lasting Chews
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Naturally calming
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Keeps jaws busy and minds occupied
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Try: Bully sticks, collagen chews, yak milk chews (check out our Chew Bar with 100+ options!)
2. Puzzle Toys & Treat Dispensers
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Mentally stimulating
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Slows down fast eaters and prevents boredom
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Try: Busy boxes, stuffable toys, wobble feeders
3. Snuffle Mats & Lick Mats
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Great for scent-driven dogs
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Soothing repetitive licking helps reduce anxiety
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Try: Spreading raw food, yogurt, or pumpkin and freezing it
4. Comfort Items
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Worn t-shirts with your scent
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Soft plushies or heartbeat toys for puppies
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Calming sprays or diffusers with lavender or chamomile
When You're Gone for Longer Hours
If you're away for longer stretches, it’s even more important to have a plan:
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Consider midday visits, walkers, or daycare drop-ins
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Use pet cameras to check in and talk to your dog
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Set up treat dispensers that activate at scheduled times
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Rotate enrichment items weekly to keep things fresh
What If My Dog Already Struggles with Being Alone?
Some dogs already associate alone time with stress. If that’s your pup, we’re here to help. Start with these steps:
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Short absences paired with rewards
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No-pressure crate or pen time while you’re still home
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Calming supplements like CBD oils or chews or herbal remedies
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Enrichment toys and chews to create positive associations
If you need more support, call & ask about our training consultations—we can help you and your dog build a plan, together.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone—We’re Here to Help
Whether you need the perfect chew, a calming aid, or an entire enrichment plan—we’re here to support you and your dog every step of the way. Stop by or call and let us help you create a custom “home alone” toolkit so your dog can thrive, even when you’re not home.
Because your dog deserves a peaceful, fulfilling day… every day.