How to train an adult dog to stay home alone?

Coming home to a chewed-up couch or a puddle by the door? It’s not your adult dog being “naughty”—they might just be stressed about being alone. Unlike puppies, adult dogs come with past experiences, which can make staying home solo tricky. But with patience, you can help them feel calm and confident when you’re out.​

Dogs are social creatures, so being left alone can trigger anxiety. Signs like pacing, excessive barking, or destructive chewing are their way of saying, “I’m scared.” This isn’t about discipline—it’s about building trust. Start small: try leaving the room for 30 seconds, then come back and reward them with a treat or a favorite toy. Repeat, gradually stretching the time. This teaches them you’ll always return, which eases their worry.​

Create a safe space just for them. A cozy corner with their bed, a blanket that smells like you, and a puzzle feeder works wonders. For apartment dwellers, this space could be a quiet room or a crate—never use the crate as punishment, though. Leave the radio on low or a white noise machine to mask outside sounds that might stress them. Make leaving feel normal: avoid long goodbyes or over-excited hellos, which can ramp up their anxiety.​

Timing is key. Start training when your dog is relaxed, not right after a walk or meal. If they panic when you grab your keys, practice picking up your keys, putting them down, and giving a treat—no leaving involved. Once that’s easy, try stepping outside for 2 minutes, then 5, then 10. If they mess up, don’t scold them—just go back to a shorter time. Positive reinforcement, like praise or a special treat when you return, builds good habits better than scolding ever will.​

Community rules matter here too. Excessive barking can disturb neighbors, and in some areas, there are noise ordinances that could lead to complaints. If your dog barks while alone, address the anxiety first—shouting at them through a camera will only make it worse. Also, ensure they’re well-exercised before you leave: a tired dog is a calmer dog. A brisk walk or a game of fetch helps burn off energy so they’re more likely to nap than pace.​

Consistency turns progress into habit. Stick to a routine: feed them, take them out, then leave at the same time each day. Over time, they’ll learn the pattern and know what to expect. If you work long hours, consider a midday visit from a dog walker—this breaks up their alone time and gives them a chance to go potty. Remember, every dog is different: some might master 4 hours alone in a week, others need a month. Celebrate small wins, like a quiet house after 10 minutes.​

Training an adult dog to stay home alone is about understanding their fears and building their confidence. It’s not always easy, but the payoff—a dog who naps peacefully while you’re out—is worth it. With kindness, patience, and a little routine, you’ll both feel more at ease when it’s time to say goodbye.