Puppy Separation Anxiety Solved in Just 5 Simple Steps

Every puppy wants to be with its owner all the time. They love being close, playing or just sleeping by your side but there will always be times when you need to step out maybe for work, shopping or to visit a friend. In those hours away your puppy must feel safe and calm at home. Many puppies cry, bark or chew things when left alone and this is not their bad behaviour instead, they just feel unsure. Teaching your puppy to be alone without stress will help both you and your pet.

Some puppies pick the habit quickly while others need more time. Patience is very important during this training. If you make it fun and slow your puppy will enjoy learning and the goal is not only to stop bad behavior but to give your puppy independence.
Even in small steps your puppy should learn that being alone is not scary and with the right method your pet will wait quietly until you come home.

You can start by leaving your puppy alone for only a few minutes each day and you can step out of the room while your pet stays inside but do not make a big fuss when you go or when you return. This way your puppy learns that leaving is normal and similarly over time increase the length of these absences. Slowly your puppy will get used to the idea that you always come back.

In the early stage, do not leave your puppy for too long. Ten minutes at first then fifteen and so on. Keep it steady but never rush and if your puppy cries scolding is not the solution. Wait until it calms down and then reward with a little play or a treat will make the training easier.
This short practice habit prevents separation anxiety. The puppy will realize that alone time is not something to fear and only part of daily life which will always end with your happy return.

A safe area gives a sense of comfort to your puppy. This can be a playpen or just one part of a room where you can place soft bedding, water and toys inside. A safe zone is not a punishment. In fact, it makes the puppy think of it as a den. A den is a place dogs feel secure because it is their own.

While using a crate as a puppy zone always keep the door open when you are home. Let your puppy go inside and come out freely. When the puppy enjoys time in the crate it becomes easier to leave them there for short hours and some puppies even nap peacefully once they get used to it.
The safe zone is also important for your house. Puppies love chewing shoes, wires or clothes but if they stay in their space while you are away nothing harmful will happen. It makes your home calm and your puppy safe too.

Leaving your puppy with toys and play will make the wait less boring so choose toys that keep them busy like puzzle feeders or chew treats. Some toys can hold food inside and the puppy must work to get it out and this distracts them from missing you.

Music or mild sounds can also help. Playing calming music or radio makes the house feel less empty. Some puppies relax when they hear gentle sounds around them so use this method in the early stages of training.
When puppies learn that alone time means tasty treats or fun play they begin to look forward to it. Instead of crying they will be excited when you leave because it means reward and fun.


Dogs love routine so if your puppy knows your pattern they will feel safe. Try to leave and come back home at nearly the same times each day. Predictability reduces fear and tells the puppy that this alone time is planned and safe.

Before leaving take your puppy out for a short walk or play as this helps release extra energy. A tired puppy is less likely to bark or chew when left alone. After exercise, most dogs just want to nap and that is the best moment to step out.
Always return calmly and without too much excitement. If you greet your puppy too loudly, it may think being alone was a big deal. A calm hello shows that alone time is normal.


Training a puppy to be home alone does not happen in one day and some puppies take weeks while others may need months. One has to be patient and gentle through this journey as forcing or scolding will only make the puppy scared.

Stay positive even during mistakes. Every small progress deserves praise or play. Puppy training works best when love and rewards guide the process.
If your puppy struggles badly then you can ask for help from a trainer or vet as they can check if the puppy has deeper anxiety and guide you with special tips.


Teaching your puppy to be home alone is about trust and love and with steady steps and gentle care your puppy will learn that your absence is not scary. They will feel safe in their space, play with toys and rest until you return. A confident puppy grows into a calm adult dog which is ready for every part of life.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much sleep does your pet need?
   15 to 20 hours of sleep is very much needed for your pet to stay healthy.
2. What should you avoid when you take your dog to walk?
   It is a given that you never let your dog lead and never loosen the leash if they are not trained well.
3. What happens if you never take your dog for a walk?
   Dogs face stress and anxiety related issues when there is absence of walk in their daily routine. They also gain weight.