Teaching Your Puppy to Be Alone Without Anxiety
Raising a puppy is full of snuggles, zoomies, and adorable chaos — but what happens when you need to leave the house? Even for a quick errand?
If your pup howls the moment you walk out and proceeds to chew up everything within their path, you're not alone. And, they’re not being bad if they decide to panic and/or chew your favorite sneakers - they’re scared and confused.
Separation anxiety is common in young dogs — puppies are naturally social animals. They bond closely with their humans (a.k.a. you!) and don’t yet understand that being alone is temporary. That’s why it’s crucial to teach independence early, so your puppy will learn to remain calm, and feel confident that they’re safe.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Teach Your Puppy to Be Alone
1. Start Small (Like… Really Small)
Begin with short absences — even stepping into another room for a minute. Don’t make a big deal when you leave or return. Keep it calm and casual.
2. Practice "Alone Time" While You're Home
Let your puppy relax in a crate, playpen, or safe room while you're still in the house. Give them a chew toy or enrichment activity to enjoy solo time. The goal is to help them feel “I don’t need to be attached to my human to feel okay."
3. Use Positive Associations
Create a routine where you leaving = something great happens. Use a special treat or puzzle toy they only get when you step out. ✅ Try lick mats, pupsicles, or Freezbones.
4. Desensitize Your "Departure Cues"
Puppies definitely notice patterns: grabbing keys, putting on shoes = YOU’RE LEAVING! This triggers stress. So practice these actions without leaving.
Do them randomly throughout the day to break the association.
5. Keep Greetings & Goodbyes Low-Key
No dramatic exits or “I’m gonna miss you!” speeches. It’s not really needed. You know you’re coming back, so make sure your puppy feels this. Instead, leave without fanfare and come back calmly.
6. Gradually Increase Alone Time
Once your pup can handle short periods, slowly build to longer stretches — starting with 5-10 minutes and working up to 30, 60, then a few hours.
Be consistent and patient — and celebrate progress!
Signs of Separation Anxiety
Some puppies will protest a bit at first. But if you notice these red flags, your pup may need extra support:
🚩 Destructive chewing
🚩 Excessive whining or barking
🚩 Pacing, drooling, or shaking
🚩 Accidents indoors only when alone
🚩 Escape attempts (from crate or doors)
Don’t worry — with time, patience, and training, most cases improve.
Tools That Help
Pet camera (for peace of mind + training feedback)
Calming sprays or pheromone diffusers
Safe crate with a cozy setup
Enrichment toys to keep their brain busy.
This is an enrichment puzzle toy that I bought Bosley when he was a puppy to keep him busy. It’s a saucer in which you insert treats in the top or bottom holes and give to your dog. As your dog plays with the toy, wobbling it or flipping it, treats eventually come out of the sides of the saucer. It has been Bosley’s favorite toy since introduction.
Final Woof
Teaching your puppy to be alone is one of the most important life skills you’ll give them — for your sanity and their emotional well-being.
Start early, stay consistent, and lead with patience. With time, your pup will learn that being alone isn’t scary — it’s just another part of life.
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