Home Alone.

Leaving your dog alone at home can be a challenge, especially if they're used to having you around all the time. With a bit of patience and some strategic training, you can help your furry friend feel comfortable and secure on their own. I wish I had started training Milo to be by himself earlier but we didn't start until he was almost two just because the kids were doing remote learning and my husband was working from home.

Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

First things first, make sure your dog has a cozy, secure area to hang out in while you're away. This could be a crate, a designated room, or a playpen. Ensure it's stocked with their favorite toys, a comfortable bed, and maybe even an item of your clothing for reassurance. We trained him to go to the bay window so now that's his spot. He loves people watching and waiting for us to come home from his little perch.

Start with Short Absences

Begin by leaving your dog alone for just a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the duration as your dog gets more comfortable. We started by trying to hang out in the garage while he was in the house but that didn't work because he could still hear and smell us. So then we took short walks down the block and gradually worked our way up to picking up some coffee or ice cream for about 40 minutes. Soon we increased it to grocery runs at Costco, which you know is never less than an hour! Finally, we were able to watch a movie as a family because Milo was able to stay by himself for 3 to 4 hours. This gradual approach helps prevent anxiety and teaches your dog that you'll always come back. Sometimes I randomly walk around the house with my purse or keys in my hand to desensitize him from associating those items with being left at home. Now Milo can easily stay home by himself for 6 to 8 hours, although it's super rare.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward your dog for being calm and relaxed when you leave and return home. Treats, praise, and affection can go a long way in reinforcing good behavior. Avoid making a big fuss when you leave or return; this can create anxiety and make departures and arrivals more stressful. We use the phrases "See you later" or "I'll be right back" every time we leave so that he knows we'll be leaving him at home but we will come back. Whenever he hears either of these phrases, he runs right to the bay window to see us off.

Engage Their Mind and Body

A tired dog is a happy, less anxious dog. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before you leave. We always make sure he's gone to the bathroom and had a long walk or hard play session before we leave him alone. Interactive toys or puzzle feeders can keep your dog entertained while you're away and can distract them from your absence, although these don't work on Milo. He literally stays at the bay window the entire time we're gone.

Remember, every dog is different, so tailor your approach to fit your dog's unique needs and personality. Happy training!