Skip to content
Growing Healthy Schools Week – growinghealthyschoolsweek.org

Growing Healthy Schools Week – growinghealthyschoolsweek.org

Gradually Increasing Time Alone for Your Puppy

Anthony Case, February 14, 2025

Leaving your puppy alone for the first time can be stressful for both you and your new pet. Puppies naturally crave companionship, and sudden separations can lead to anxiety or destructive behavior. Gradually increasing the time your puppy spends alone is essential for helping them adjust to being independent without stress dog training in my area. Here’s how to make the process easier:

1. Start Small

Begin by leaving your puppy alone for just a few minutes at a time. This can be as simple as stepping into another room or leaving them in their crate while you walk around the house. The goal is to make the experience short and non-threatening. Over time, your puppy will learn that being alone is not something to fear.

2. Create a Safe Space

Set up a safe and comfortable area where your puppy can feel secure when you’re not around. A crate, playpen, or a small room with their bed and toys can work well. This space should be calm and free from distractions that might make your puppy feel anxious. Avoid leaving them in large, open spaces where they might feel overwhelmed.

3. Leave Familiar Scents and Items

To help your puppy feel more at ease when you’re gone, leave behind items that smell like you—such as a worn t-shirt or a blanket. Familiar scents can provide comfort and reassure your puppy that you’ll return.

4. Increase Time Slowly

Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy spends alone, starting with just a few minutes and slowly extending to 15–30 minutes as they adjust. Avoid rushing this process. If your puppy shows signs of stress, reduce the time and try again later. Be consistent, and let your puppy get used to the idea of being alone in small increments.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement

Each time you leave and return, be calm and relaxed. Don’t make a big fuss over departures or arrivals, as this can create anxiety. When your puppy behaves calmly during your absence, reward them with praise or a treat. This reinforces the idea that being alone is a positive experience.

6. Avoid Leaving for Long Periods Early On

Avoid leaving your puppy alone for long stretches, especially in the early stages of training. Puppies have small bladders and may not be able to hold it for extended periods. Start with short absences and gradually extend them as your puppy becomes more comfortable being alone.

7. Provide Mental Stimulation

Give your puppy toys or puzzles to keep them busy while you’re gone. Chew toys or treat-dispensing toys are excellent for distracting your puppy and helping them associate alone time with something enjoyable.

8. Practice Regular Departures

Practice going in and out of your house or room multiple times during the day without leaving for long periods. This helps your puppy get used to the idea of you leaving and returning without it being a big event.

Conclusion

Gradually increasing the time your puppy spends alone is key to helping them develop confidence and independence. Be patient, consistent, and use positive reinforcement throughout the process. By taking small steps, your puppy will eventually learn that being alone isn’t something to worry about, making both of you feel more relaxed and secure.

Opinion

Post navigation

Previous post
Next post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

  • Men Wool Jean Jackets

  • Top 10 Best Shimano Torium 50 Fishing Reel Comparison

  • Top 10 Best Deep Drop Fishing Rod Comparison

  • Mens in Leather Jackets

  • Boots for Kids Girl

  • What Is a Houndstooth Suit?

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: Chanceando 1000 Leather Belt En Busca Del Headhunter

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: Top 8 Best Convection Microwave Ovens Reviews In 2018

  • Top 10 Best Wok Trivets Comparison

  • Men Small Bomber Jackets

  • Carhartt Mens Upland Field Jackets

  • Kohls Mens Winter Jackets

  • Top 10 Best Pioneer Car Stereo Bluetooth Microphone Comparison

  • Top 10 Best Berkley Fishing Rods Inshore Comparison

  • Top 10 Best Mens Fall Jackets Comparison

  • Factors For Hiring Different Spread Betting Providers

  • Nice Pants Mens

  • Gap Military Jacket Men’s

  • Simply Stream Online Movies to Your Big Screen TV

  • Top 10 Best Mccoy Fishing Line For Sale Comparison

  • Cheap Men’s Shorts

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: Superfit Winter Boots

  • Top 10 Best Fishing Lines Meaning Comparison

  • Top 10 Best Usb Microphone Stereo Mix Comparison

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: Faucet Extender DIY-2 ????????-2

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: How To Make A Wood Cash Tray / Wood Cash Box

  • Sweaters Vest for Mens How to Wear

  • Growing Healthy Schools Week: Indonesia Accepts Plastic Bottles In Exchange For Free Bus Rides

  • Top 10 Best Daiwa Bg Fishing Reels Comparison

  • Top 10 Best Tsunami Fishing Rod Comparison

Growing Healthy Schools Week

©2025 Growing Healthy Schools Week – growinghealthyschoolsweek.org | WordPress Theme by SuperbThemes