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Dogs are social… all dogs. Pugs love to be with their owners, sitting beside them, walking with them, listening while being talked too, sleeping with them, etc…
What happens when you have to leave your dog alone for a period of time? Do you worry about him/her? I do. I always have. I probably always will. We hate to leave our dogs, and yet, there are times we have too.
I think the best thing we can do for our dogs is to teach them that being home alone is OK. Talk to them. Tell them you are leaving, but you’ll be back. They understand. Dogs can remember our habits. They know when it’s time to go for a walk, they know when it’s time to eat and they know when you are going to leave. My pug knows when I’m leaving because she sees me getting ready. Sometimes, she looks sad, and sometimes she pouts, but I always try to prepare her for my departure.
It’s always a good idea to start a puppy out by leaving them alone for short periods of time, then extend that time until he/she gets used to being home alone.
What do our dogs do during the time that we are gone. According to some recent research, the researchers videotaped dogs that were by themselves during the day. Here’s what the dogs did:
— they watched out the window, looking at everyone who walked or drove by
— they chewed on a pair of shoes
— they stood at the window or door and barked like they were guarding your home
— If they were left in a backyard, they dug holes in the yard.
— Some of the dogs whined
–A majority of the dogs took a nap
–Some dogs got into the trash or found paper to shred
Realize that your dog will be thinking about you while you’re gone. You’re his/her best friend and of course, they miss you.
According to the research, most dogs will take advantage of you not being there and sleep without any interruptions. If your dog wakes up and realizes you are not home yet, they may get antsy and restless. Most dogs will just go to the window and watch for you to arrive or play a little with their toys until you arrive. Some dogs may get separation anxiety and start getting into mischief, like whining, barking, biting objects or urinating.
The research found that after a dog has rested, he/she tends to wait by the door or window for his owner. When he/she sees you arrive, they run to the door, very excited!! They can’t hardly contain their excitement.
Being alone can sometimes be boring and tedious for your dog, but there is something good about it: you always come back!! Once your dog realizes that you always come back, he/she will understand and see your return as a sign of love. Your dog will look forward to you coming home and appreciate that you do. It gives them a sense of security and they are filled with joy and happiness when they see you.
Don’t forget: While you have friends and a social life, your dog only has you. Try not to spend too much time away from him/her because he/she need your love and attention.
Spend as much time with your dog as you possibly can. Take him/her with you when you run errands, take him/her for a walk as often as possible, play hide and seek with him/her, and practice obedience commands with him/her etc…
The first 30 minutes after you leave is the most stressful for dogs. According to research, when stress levels increase, a dog’s heart, respiratory functions and levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol are also likely to rise.
If you’ve given your dog a good walk and they’ve gotten enough exercise for the day, they will most likely be ready for a nap and you’re leaving them won’t be an issue.
Here are some ideas you can do if you leave your dog:
–Fill a puzzle tray for them to solve.
–Leave the radio tuned to a calming station, like classical music. Choose the station carefully.
–If you only have 1 dog, you might consider getting a second one.
–Have someone come check on your dog or arrange a playdate with another dog.
–Hire someone to come sit with your dog.
You could also prepare “a home alone box.” A home alone box is a box that contains soft toys, maybe a chew toy, a few dog treats, etc… When you are about to leave, place it in front of your dog and let them rummage around in it, then walk out the door. The first time you leave, just leave for a short time. When you come home, pick up the box. The idea of this is that your dog will realize that these specific treats only show up when you leave.
This product (Furbo Dog Camera) is one of the best products that I’ve found. I don’t personally have one, but I am ordering one shortly. A friend of mine has one and I’ve seen it work. It’s amazing. She can correspond with her dog, talk to him/her and give her treats. It lets you know when your dog is barking so you can talk to him/her and calm them down. My friend’s dog was so excited when she heard her owners voice and of course, when she got her treats.
(This post may include affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure here)
Your dog/pug loves you. Give him/her the very best and lots of attention and they’ll repay you a hundred times over… with those wonderful pug kisses!! I love my Molly kisses… there is seriously nothing any better!!
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy
