The #1 Thing to Teach Your Puppy! Home Alone Training

Did you just get a puppy or a new dog? Are you home all day because of Covid-19? In this video, Denise discusses the #1 thing you need to teach your puppy to help her be successful in your home and to help prevent separation anxiety.
“Home Alone” training is about teaching your puppy or dog to be home alone and to wait contently until it’s time for you to return.
This is especially important to consider and practice when you are home for long stretches of time such as the lifestyle and workplace changes that have occurred due to Covid-19. You can put in a little practice now to help your puppy/dog transition smoothly when it’s time to go back to work and school.
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Episode Notes:
Dog Exercise Pen (X-Pen): www.chewy.com/frisco-wire-dog...
Dog Crate: www.chewy.com/frisco-fold-car...
Note: There are many types and styles of crates so be sure to shop around to find the one that is right for you and your dog.
Dog Gate: www.chewy.com/mypet-paws-port...
Dog Walk Through Gate: www.chewy.com/regalo-easy-ste...
Long Term Confinement Areas:
denisemazzola.com/long-term-c...
Connect with us in the comments below and let us know how this video helped you!
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Have FUN with Your Dog!

[@nonnonnonheinous7069]

I’ve been watching puppy training videos for several weeks now in preparation for my 9 week old poodle. Home alone training isn’t talked about enough! I’m so glad I found this video. Thank you ❤️

[@EverythingDog]

So glad you found our channel. We work with too many dogs 1 yr and older who have never been left home alone! It's cruel to the puppy/dog to not teach them that you will go away AND come back. We do this with our children!

[@solointheburbs]

As some one who is getting a puppy as well as being a 1st time dog owner, this is very helpful

[@EverythingDog]

Happy To help. If you have more questions: Check this out: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything You can book a 50 minute virtual Ask Me Anything!

[@stanleygan7782]

Hi i have not owned a dog before because i am concern about leaving the dog alone. During weekday, i do 8 hrs work in office. Do you think i am suitable to owned a dog? I was thinking to purchase an automatic dog feeder.

[@EverythingDog]

@@stanleygan7782 there are a lot of concerns in leaving a puppy or an adult dog home alone for 8 hours. The smallest concern is feeding. Puppies can NOT be left alone for 8 hours. You'll need a puppy nanny/walker several times a day. or you'll need a puppy day care.

[@BethKnox32]

How is it going

[@joannemaher8061]

Just got my new puppy 3 days ago, I’ve started going out of the room for maybe 1 minute at a time multiple times a day, but every time even for that 1 minute, she cries so much 😭 I’m hoping eventually it will stop 🙏 great helpful video 👍

[@adamperez3713]

Same deal here, any luck yet?

[@saashhwin9239]

Same here I have to go to school and my parents have to go to work it’s quite difficult while it’s crying

[@glorybeauty2372]

If you already fed the dog taken him out and he’s still crying just ignore then go into another room cover the crate with a blanket because if you keep giving attention they will just learn to cry for attention

[@mandyshores1818]

Im having the same issue!!! He is 3mo old and I've had him 2 days. I read today to allow them to cry first for 1 min, then return and give a treat. Then 2 mins, then 3 and so on. It stated that you must first stay in room for a few minutes- not talk, touch or eye contact. Then begin leaving room. If you talk, touch etc then you're making it harder for them to be without you. I'm starting this later this week. They recommend starting this after 4- 7 days. Good luck!!

[@mandyshores1818]

​@adamperez3713 Im having the same issue!!! He is 3mo old and I've had him 2 days. I read today to allow them to cry first for 1 min, then return and give a treat. Then 2 mins, then 3 and so on. It stated that you must first stay in room for a few minutes- not talk, touch or eye contact. Then begin leaving room. If you talk, touch etc then you're making it harder for them to be without you. I'm starting this later this week. They recommend starting this after 4- 7 days. Good luck!!

[@balawanubob3165]

Very much needed information. I’m definitely going to use these tips to start training my puppy when I pick him up in a few days. Thank you so much for making this video.

[@nnaayu_u]

This was so important for me to hear because I’m always hanging with the pup !!

[@EverythingDog]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@crystalvignola8513]

Thank you so much! New puppy mom here. First dog ever at 40 years old and also a full time hybrid employee. This helps boost my confidence in what I'm doing. You're officially now my go to site !!! 💓

[@EverythingDog]

Congratulations on your FIRST puppy! Whoot Whoot. You'll do great. Thanks for finding us!

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Only Love this is also a GREAT example of PPP's. Predictable Patterns that create Precedent! Precedets relieve stress because the dog (or person for that matter) knows what comes next. You should ALWAYS give your dog a treat when you leave, it's his precedent and that is GREAT.

[@terrybear5398]

This video was Excellent! Thank you. I have a 7 year old Chihuahua -Terrier that I rescued about 2 years ago. We have been inseparable ever since. I want to gradually help her to be alone, and your information seems straight forward, gentle and doable🤗 I will keep you posted.

[@EverythingDog]

Terry, looking forward to updates!

[@alohakrueger5447]

Thank you!! I wasn’t ready for our puppy and now I’m incorporating crate training bit by bit.

[@EverythingDog]

Glad the video is helping you and Im really glad you are ready for your puppy now!

[@anniebee9361]

Thank you for all the very helpful advice. Always straight forward and straight up solid instructions. These short videos are super helpful. I’ve only had my pup for one week and she is sleeping through the night in her crate from about 10pm to 5.30am. She’s only 9 weeks old. I have been practicing home alone training. I went out and bought a puppy pen for our family room and I also have a puppy proof laundry for her at nighttime or when I am practicing home alone training. The puppy pen is a god send. I can freely move about the house and not worry about her getting into anything she shouldn’t whilst cooking dinner or doing laundry.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Annie, so glad the videos are helpful! This will also help with house training! Keep up the good work!

[@emilysukert6536]

Hi! This was so helpful. I’ve had my pup for about 2 months now and REALLLYY did myself a disservice by not starting this right away. Now I’m having to deal with seperation anxiety on top of the home alone training. After watching this, I’m going to start over from square one and just try a minute at a time. He’s a 4month old toy Aussie and the best boy but we are STRUGGLING when I have to leave him in his Xpen.

[@EverythingDog]

Emily, there is plenty of time to teach your pup that you go away and you come back. When you walk away, leave etc. try giving him a yummy treat/s. More than one so he has it for a period of time. You can help him by creating a positive association. when you leave, he gets $100! He'll learn to love it when you leave. Give it time. His barking etc won't stop immediately. Watch for less barking (how long is he barking) and a reduction in the intensity of his barking.

[@michellelynngray]

Thank you!!!!!!! My pup (catahoula) is almost 16 months I will work on this! This was soo helpful! Been searching how to manage this My other idea, was “get another dog” BUT essentially- if he understanding correctly- have this down! No matter what- We have been contemplating a 2nd dog as a companion for when I do go back and the kids are in school But I know we have to work it into our lifestyle and do it because we want to not just as a babysitter I will start with what you shared how much love thank you so very much and thank you for telling us the term “home alone training”

[@amydenisesprivatechannel5575]

Hi Michelle. A second dog is only a good idea if you are ready to more than double your work! Dogs really do not need a companion, they need rules, limits and expectations and some basic training, like how to be home alone. They simply need to learn that you leave and then you come back. My dog Gio is home when Im out seeing clients and he is perfectly happy. He does NOT need another dog pestering him, barking, etc. When we are together, I get to focus on HIM and spoil him and not have to divide my attention.

[@HDee_]

This is great! Thank you. Today is day 4 of me having my 2.5 month old maltipoo and she’s picking it up! Sometimes I away in my room for an hour and i come out and she’s chilling! Today, i crated her and went downstairs- heard her barking from downstairs but by the time i came up, she was chill! It’s so fascinating to see the daily progress! Such a smart puppy!

[@EverythingDog]

Heather, this is GREAT! And good for you for putting the work in now instead of waiting. She needs to learn this precedent, that you go away and you come back EARLY in her life! Congratulations

[@LiveLaughSmile]

I have a new puppy and she hates if she doesn’t see me. I’m trying this today because I need to take my cat to the vet and I’m so worry letting her alone. Today is day 7th I have her. She is learning so fast. Thanks!

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Livelaugh smile, so glad the video was helpful.

[@CrystalCupcake86]

Honestly best and most useful video thank you 🙏🏼

[@EverythingDog]

Thanks Crystal!

[@321andme]

Just what I was looking for. Thank you

[@EverythingDog]

You are welcome. Glad the video was helpful.

[@404jules]

This is so helpful - thank you so much!

[@EverythingDog]

So glad it was helpful!

[@peein]

this helps so much thank you it’s getting easier to train my pup

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Milo. Glad to help! All the best.

[@haizeolivar5906]

So proud of our pup, we got him 5 days ago he is 9weeks and already potty trained by the breeder, he knows where to go to potty inside our house. He loves his crate too, he dont cry if i leave him alone in the room..

[@EverythingDog]

Sounds like your breeder was on the ball in establishing an indoor potty area. How big will your dog be and do you want him/her eliminating inside forever? If not, think about transitioning to outside ASAP.

[@haizeolivar5906]

@@EverythingDog we can’t potty him outside yet because he isn’t fully vaccinated yet, i am scared to bring him out in our backyard because we live in the mountain part here in italy where many wild animals have access in our backyard especially foxes that might be a carrier of some virus..

[@haizeolivar5906]

@@EverythingDog our pup is a maltipoo btw 😊

[@EverythingDog]

@@haizeolivar5906 wow ok, this is a first but makes sense as many doggie diseases are spread through the fecal matter of foxes, etc. You could bring the outside in, bring in grass, or whatever surface you ultimately want him to potty on. It will ease his transition.

[@haizeolivar5906]

@@EverythingDog when he will be fully vaccinated we will potty him in our backyard, now i am happy because when i leave him he isn’t crying maybe because he knows i always come back ☺️.. so happy i’ve stumbled upon your channel, i am learning a lot ❤️

[@msjane2412]

This is so helpful. Thank you

[@EverythingDog]

Ms. Jane. You are very welcome.

[@donnataylor8340]

Awesome thank you 😊

[@EverythingDog]

You are most welcome.

[@ilovehandmadestuff]

I’m trying to learn and be ready for when I can get a puppy! Thank you for this

[@EverythingDog]

You are welcome. Glad it was helpful. Once you get your puppy, If you need help with house training, check out our ondemand house training course: denisemazzola.com/shop/ Good luck.

[@ilovehandmadestuff]

@@EverythingDog thank u! We are still doing our research to be responsible owners. :)

[@mikeemswiler4541]

Thank you

[@EverythingDog]

You are welcome

[@eddieg5988]

Thank you for this video. Just took in my sister's second dog as their dogs became very territorial of their house. He was born during the pandemic so he is so use to being home with someone. I am going to start this to get him use to this as doggy daycare to get him use to the idea of going and coming back.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Eddie, The dog also must learn that you go away and come back. That's important. Good luck.

[@Seanscichlids]

Finally a good video about how to leave your puppy alone, and how to train them to get used to it. I am looking at getting a Shih poo, and many of the videos just say "you can't leave them alone for more than 1, 2, or 4 hours". They are very unrealistic videos. People have to go to work, and that means they are gone for around 9 hours. Sure I'd love to have a stay at home job or be retired, but that won't happen anytime soon.

[@EverythingDog]

Sean, glad the video was helpful. Depending on your situation, you may need a Long Term Confinement area. You;ll find it here: denisemazzola.com/blog/page/2/

[@Seanscichlids]

@@EverythingDog Thank you for the link. I am going to see if my neighbor will help take the puppy out while I'm at work. I do plan to have a long term confinement area. I just need to work out the fine details.

[@unitesupportking3439]

My retriever german shepherd mix jumps over his high gate already. Luckily we have an empty room to put it in but for now its only been a week and he’s losing it. Ive been taking 1 hour trips out and coming back everyday. Today ill try a little longer but so far hes OBSESSED with us.

[@EverythingDog]

Jeremy, you may need to tether him to something stable, while you are home, then walk away, so he can see you, count to 10 (or something reasonable) and return to him. Dropping a handful of chicken, cheese, OR roast beef etc when YOU LEAVE. You want your leaving to predict $100 for him. Do this around the house, GRADUALLY increasing how long you "leave" him for. Always stay in sight of him. BE CALM. He'll take his cues from him. If you are constantly talking to him and reassuring him, it won't be helpful to him. Just be calm. This is where Id start. Teaching him that you go away and you come back. If you want more specific help you can set up a consult here: Everythingdog.as.me/VirtualBehavioralConsultation

[@amanda-cct]

I was looking for a training exactly like this - so glad I found it! We are getting a puppy in ~ 7 weeks, and I'll be working from home full-time for most of 2021. Our plan is to have her in a crate/play pen area in my office during the day, but during the day when we shower, make food, run short errands, etc., will leave her in my office by herself to get used to us being gone. Do you think it's okay to teach her to be alone in one room or need to test with multiple rooms?

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Amanda, Your puppy will need to learn to be alone where every she is left, so yes, generalize this to other rooms. Let her settle in for a couple of weeks before stressing her out too much. There is a lot of stress on a puppy when they first leave the litter and come home with you. New sounds, new smells, new routine etc. Good luck.

[@amanda-cct]

@@EverythingDog thank you so much!

[@maddiemcdonald9988]

love the video, very easy to understand! quick question how many times should i be leaving them for longer and longer time, for example how many times should i leave them for five minutes before i go to 10 minutes, and how long would you say it takes to get them to an hour?

[@EverythingDog]

Great question. It will depend on how your puppy is behaving. If she is calm at 5 minutes, more to 10. If she is having a hard time, maybe go to 8 minutes. Plus some puppies might cry for 10 - 15 minutes, then settle down and go to sleep. Videoing her while you are away is the BEST way to really know what is happening and what your next steps are.

[@Ah_Lee_Sun]

Thank you. I’ve been struggling with my new Border Terrier pup, and I’m working from home. Week 4 of her and we’re going through this. She cries and sounds l like she’s being tortured sometimes when I try to have a shower. It’s getting better.

[@EverythingDog]

It will take some time for her to understand that you can go away and come back. When you leave her alone, always combine your departure with something great for her. A Licky matt kzbin.info/www/bejne/moeWhpKqltt6g5Isi=U0j3Hj5FShcJkebN, a brain toy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIe4cpVvZqeghsksi=tYI-2KbRv3KaWYel or a Kong: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6q0eYuDnq-CnaMsi=7YpTw2GUOhGes0Zp Good luck.

[@baba7415963]

My two month old toy poodle cries when I put her in the crate and I'm literally just 5 feet away... I've exercised her and fed her. She doesn't need to go potty too. When I bring her out, she just lays down beside me so she isn't in a playful mood either and I want her to rest just in crate. Is it right that I ignore her when she cries?

[@ilovelucy1088]

If you want to crate train a puppy, what do you do with your other dog that is about 1.5? He stays in the house and roams freely but do you think that would be distressing for either of them? Keep him outside while we’re crate training her?

[@EverythingDog]

During the actual training process, I'd have your other dog contained just so there isn't competition for treats. As you start to leave the puppy crated while you are home I'd like your other dog do whatever he/she normally does. As much as possible, you want things to be "normal" for both dogs.

[@jacindabean4264]

Hi! I have a 9 week old Pomeranian puppy and am wondering what the right timing is to start leaving her alone? She likes her crate to sleep in at night but doesn’t love being confined in her exercise pen (it has safe toys) even when i run a 5 minute errand to get the mail and begins whining after a minute or two. Is it okay for her to cry a bit? Also, how long should the process take in total? Thank you!

[@EverythingDog]

Hey, great questions. Running to get the mail is a great place to start. Your puppy needs to learn that you go away and come back. Leave her with some puppy food so she'll make a fun association when you leave. She's still young so go slow.

[@samrudh7177]

Hey, Denise love your videos... I wanted to ask if it would be possible to leave a puppy for around 6-7hours home alone. My parents work a 8hour shift but i come home in around 6 hours. Thank you!!!

[@EverythingDog]

Hey there. Well, it depends on how old the puppy is, breed? And what will be happening the rest of the day. Dogs are social animals and living in too much isolation can cause anxiety. Let's chat. Here's a link to my 50 minute Ask Me Anything. Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@gbvsf1987]

Thank you for this video, we’ve been leaving our puppy in his pen for anything between 10 and 45 mins at a time, sometimes he goes to sleep but mostly he barks whenever we’re not there. Is this already a sign of separation anxiety? He stops barking as soon as we come back into the room, but we’re worried this is reinforcing the barking. Do you have any advice? He’s 13 weeks old and we’ve had him for almost 4 weeks. Thank you.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Olivia, he's just a baby so I'd shorten the length of time he is crated (IF possible). Leave him with something yummy in his crate that way you'll create a positive/fun association. Crate = $100 (stuffed Kong, something safe for the young puppy to have that won't upset his tummy at the moment) Be sure you have at least 5 seconds of NO BARKING before you let him out. If you let him out while he's barking or too close to his barking, you'll create a chained behavior....bark, bark, bark, stop get out. Your goal is to have quiet get him out, so it should look like this: bark, bark, bark, quiet, quiet, quiet, quiet, quiet, quiet, get out.

[@Alinsmajl]

My darling miniature schnauzer crossed the rainbow bridge a while back. In the future we probably would want another dog. I am a bit allergic but have not had any problems with schnauzers (have had a giant and then a miniature). So we need to look for breeds that are "hypoallergenic" (I know there is no such thing...) Poodle is one breed we consider. But as I understand it they are prone to separation anxiety. Can poodles (with the training you teach us in the video) tolerate to be home alone during work hours if they get a lunch walk? Thank you for the great video. I hope the wasp didn't attack you!

[@EverythingDog]

Alinsmajl, separation anxiety can be for many reasons. Genetics plays a role..., is the breeder breeding dogs who are anxious about being alone? It can be because owners never left their puppies alone and taught them that they (humans) will go away and come back. I understand the allergy concern, but you MUST remember that every dog was BRED to do something and you must be able to provide them with an outlet for what their genetics are telling them to do. Poodles are HUNTERS, just like labs and goldens. Check out Kim Brophy's book, Meet Your Dog before you acquire your next dog. It's an amazing book.

[@KeepItLwky]

I just got my 2 month old puppy 3 days ago and I’m terribly having this issue with her. I hope the technique will work.

[@EverythingDog]

Be sure to give your puppy time to adjust to her new home. There is plenty of time for home-alone training. She's just gone through the biggest and scariest transition in her short little puppy life...leaving her family!

[@nocturnal992]

Is a confinement area necessery if you live in an apartment, or does it depend on their character if you need one or just let them roam around the rooms, or just close some doors?

[@EverythingDog]

N. Novak it depends on the age of the puppy/dog. If the puppy is NOT house trained, then I would use a crate or long-term confinement area. If the puppy is totally house trained, can hold her "business" while you are away and you KNOW she won't destroy anything, then she could be free in the house. Closing doors etc is a good idea.There is no hurry to put away the crate or the long-term confinement area.

[@jeantrafecanty3225]

Hi, I’ve had my 8 weeks old puppy a week tomorrow (he’ll be 9 weeks on Monday). I have an exercise pen in the living that I just started using 2 days ago that I want him to use as a place to relax during the day while I do house chores. He is only okay in the pen while he has a stuffed king or a puppy none to chew on and even then he only focuses on it for a few seconds up to 2 minutes. As soon as he’s done with his snacks or the kong, he begins to bark immediately, even if I am in the same room as him. Is there any other tips for getting him to focus on his toys for longer periods of time without giving him too many treats or having him bark a lot until he is let out or sees me?

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Jean, Congratulations on your new puppy. You didn't mention the breed. An exercise pen is also a good idea. Since you've only had your puppy for 1 week, it sounds like you are doing ok. I wouldn't expect a 9-week-old puppy, who has only lived with you for 1 week to be ok alone in the ex-pen. Puppies have an attention span of a nanosecond, so his attention sounds about right. Keep doing what you are doing, some barking is ok, and remember, you don't want to go to him, or get him out while he's barking. You want to teach him that being calm gets him what he wants...YOU!

[@Puentenator1]

Thank you so much for the detailed breakdown. I have a 9 week old puppy and he enjoys his crate. He’ll go in there by himself when I do dishes and cook with the doors open. I work from home and sometimes he sleeps by my chair or in his bed near my desk. Is there anything else I should do during a work day of any tips? I tend to crate him for about 30 minutes two times a day while working in the same room. And also when I shower!

[@EverythingDog]

At his age this is a great start. Each week, extend the length of time you leave him crated, door closed and you shower. Or crate him and just eat your lunch in another part of the house. Crate him when you do a quick errand etc. Gradually increrasing the length of time is key. He needs to learn that you go away and you come back.

[@jonnycaldwell1139]

How big was the crate. ? Our 9 week old pup hated the crate when we closed the door

[@EverythingDog]

@@jonnycaldwell1139 in terms of house training, the crate needs to be large enough or small enough so that the puppy can stand up, turn around and comfortably lay down. If the puppy was anxious when you closed the door, you'll need to introduce him much slower. It's a new concept for the puppy to be "closed in" and he'll need time to feel safe and get used to it. Some ideas....Feed him in his crate, throw toys in his crate and let him run in and out.

[@msjbean15]

Sticky situation here, my 4 month old puppy and I currently live in a house and I work from home full time, so he’s very used to being around me. We are moving to an apartment in 6 weeks, and I’m trying to figure out how to make sure that he’s QUIET when left alone (currently, according to the neighbors he will cry the entire time I’m gone, even if that’s 2 hours). I try to leave him alone for at least an hour every day but the noise hasn’t gotten better. Any tips?

[@EverythingDog]

hey Jada, this is a huge issue right now with a lot of puppies and dogs who have been home with their owners for a long time. He needs to learn that you go away and you come back. Short period of times like you are doing are good and do them regularly. I would suggest an more in depth consult. You can use this link: Everythingdog.as.me/VirtualInitialConsultation There is just too much to go over in a comment.

[@c1rcawskater]

Hello, first of all great video, but I have a question. Well I’m getting a puppy husky next week. I leave for work 8am and my wife at 10:30am I come back at 5pm. Do you think that’s a problem? To leave him roam free home? No cage? I was thinking maybe stopping by during lunch break to see him for 15 min and leave again. Is that a bad idea?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey, yeah, it's a problem. Puppies can not be left to "roam free" while you are at work. There are too many dangers for them and they'll pee and poop all over your house. Set up a long-term confinement area denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/ and yes stop by at lunch. Your puppy will probably be needing 3 meals per day. Before you leave for work your pup should have plenty of time outside and again when you get home.

[@yaboinate9245]

Better advice than what google gave me

[@EverythingDog]

We aim to please as well as give practical advice!

[@jimilove7544]

Hi there, thank you for your great video - My dog cries continuously the moment we crate her and will not stop crying - all the tutorials and online advice says do not engage until they stop crying but how do you engage if they will not stop crying? I do not want to reinforce bad behaviours - I am not leaving the room or of her eyesight when I crate her, the best I can manage is quickly close and instantly open without crying. Toilet and food are not the issue. Any advice is much appreciated :)

[@EverythingDog]

Thanks for your question. I really need more info in order to give you an honest answer. A few suggestions, feed her in the crate, door open. Toss chicken into the crate and let her decide when to go in. Do not close the door. If you want more help please schedule an Initial Consult here: Everythingdog.as.me/VirtualInitialConsultation

[@Readwithmiaaa]

Just got a puppy!! It's 23:28 at night here in the UK and he's barking so loud. He's howling ect and my mums getting upset because he is really louf

[@EverythingDog]

Mistydogzfrog, first congratulations on your new puppy! Be sure the puppy is in your room with you in his crate and not isolated away from you. Poor little guy just left his entire family! Be sure he has had lots of opportunities to potty before bed. Reassure him that you are there and he/she is ok. Good luck.

[@TeToQeTo]

Do you have any suggestions for a 6 month lkd pup that’s aggressive to a specific dog? How can i get them along? Also mine is chatty so he barks a lot when we walk in the park at everything, i want him to be calm and to understand to stop when he’s feisty

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Ketevan, this is a complicated question and I need more info, but here are some basics. Because I don't have all the info, you must manage these two dogs so there are NO MORE fights. Your 6 month old is LEARNING that fighting is getting him something....I don't know what. Keep a leash on both of them so you can redirect or separate BEFORE the fighting happens. Or Crate and rotate so they are not out at the same time. This could be done and is preferable to do it with baby gates so each dog has their own space is safe but they can still see each other. He's not being "Chatty" outside, it sounds like he is WAY over STIMULATED outside. Keep your walks short, carry chicken or meatballs or another HIGH value good and label and feed EVERYTHING he notices. Say to him.."It's ok, that's just a dog" and Immediately feed him chicken etc. It can have remarkable success with dogs, but you must do it for months, not just a day or a week. Good luck.

[@laurasimpson7035]

Hello, my Cavapoo is 1 years old and we’ve never left him on his own due to our home working situations. When we’ve tried to leave him for even a few minutes, he whimpers and whines and just stares at the door and also paces back and forth to it. It’s our own fault, I know. We tried to crate him from when we first got him at 8 weeks old but he absolutely hated it and cried even if I was in the same room as him. He now has free roam of the house but is toilet trained. He follows me everywhere in the house, even if he’s tired he will follow me still. Our house is open plan, so no internal doors. How would you recommend I start to deal with leaving him on his own and to also get him to stop following me everywhere. I’d love for him to learn that it’s ok for him to stay sleeping in another room while I get up and walk to the next room. Thank you!!

[@EverythingDog]

Laura you will have to leave him in short intervals. It's ok if he whines and paces a bit, afterall, this is new for him and we'd expect him to be a bit uncomfortable. He needs to learn that you leave and come back, which it sounds like he simply doesn't know this. Id tether him to a piece of furniture and leave the room, then return. He won't be able to follow you. YOu can also give him treats when you leave so you'll create an Positive assocaition, when I leave you get $100.

[@andressanchez6505]

How would you know when your puppy is ready to b home alone out of his crate? Or when it is ok to stop the training? My pup will b an ESA so i would def like to take him everywhere w me except for work

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Andres, first, is your dog totally house trained? Is your dog/puppy beyond the age of chewing on electrical cords etc? Does your puppy/dog steal things off of tables etc? If any of these things are still happening, then I would continue to use the crate. A crate is NOT a bad thing from your dogs perspective. I crate my dog whenever Im not home, he's 7. The crate is predictive meaning Gio (dog) understands that when he goes into his crate, he is not coming with me and I'll be gone a while. It's important to have structure and routines for our dogs, it helps them understand what is happening. Humans see crates as "cages" and as "bad" things, but they are not.

[@JLDN_]

Hi there, quick question…what happens if I leave my pet puppy in the living room instead of the crate and leave him for a hour or two? He ain’t fully trained so he does make mistakes when he goes toilet, basically is a crate needed?

[@EverythingDog]

Yes a crate is needed. Why would you even want your puppy to pee and poop in the living room? You will be teaching him/her that the doggie bathroom IS the living room. Use a crate, it's kinder on the pup.

[@ivanaica4127]

Can i give treats when i come back and say good boy or just to give treats when i going out?

[@EverythingDog]

I would only give treats when leaving, so your departure predicts great things for the puppy. Your returning is enough of a reward!

[@nikeenguyen]

Thanks for the video. Serious question, my puppy is a miniature Australian shepherd and he loves to take naps in his crates and will go in there willingly. The only concern I have is that there is a 50/50 chance my puppy will cry in the crate, sometimes he’s busy chewing on his bully stick. I have tried the method of raining a bunch of treats in his crate and leaving, once he finishes his treats he starts howling. However, leaving and coming back and gave him treats he seems to respond better (being quiet when I’m gone.) I’m just worried because I really don’t want him to have separation anxiety, I know he doesn’t have that right now because sometimes he sees me leave when he’s in his crate and he doesn’t make a sound. Is it his breed that makes it harder for him to grasp being alone in the crate? I’m home 24/7 and I have all the time in my hands to train him but I need to know how I can master it. I have kongs, bully sticks, chew toys, whatever you name it! I’m really trying my best and I don’t know if you have any other advice for me.

[@EverythingDog]

Im not sure of the age of your puppy. It would be totally normal to object sometimes at being alone and be ok at others. Just be sure you do not give treats when he is crying or you will reinforce crying in his crate. YOu need at LEAST 5 seconds hopefully more of QUIET before coming back. You could leave him with slightly more challening brain toys that might take him longer to eat.

[@nikeenguyen]

@@EverythingDog My puppy is 17 weeks old now. Yes I definitely do not give treats when he’s crying. I usually walk out or in the room without saying a word to him and not making eye contact and I see better results too. I’ll definitely try to use harder brain toys for him. I really hope as he gets older that he loves his crate and I always feed him in there and make sure he takes all his naps in there.

[@EverythingDog]

@@nikeenguyen He's just a baby and still sorting out his human world. It's perfectly ok to talk to him and tell him you'll be right back. He understands more than you think. You are doing great.

[@nikeenguyen]

@@EverythingDog Thank you, I’m trying my best and reaching out for advice. I had him for 2 months and I remember in the beginning he would lose his mind in his crate at night. Today, not so bad, he’s still growing which I understand. The hardest part is being sleep deprived and it makes it so hard for me to be patient with him. I mean, puppies teach you how to be patient big time.

[@omkar1736]

Hi! My parents are considering getting a dog. They are all ready to get one. However, when the world goes back to normal, I would be gone to school and my parents would be out for work. So our house would be unattended and empty for 5 - 7 hours. I know this is bad and not a good environment for a dog. But is there any way to help?

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Omkar, great question. It's the perfect time to get a puppy. Everyone is home to tend to the pup, house training will be faster, etc. BUT, like I say in the video you must TEACH your puppy that YOU GO AWAY AND YOU COME BACK. Do it slowly so the puppy won't be to stressed. Your goal is to gradually build the puppy up to being alone like a "normal" work day!

[@fh3570]

Hi ! I just got my puppy and he’s 10 weeks would it be okay to leave him in crate for 3 hours and a half from 3-6:30 or is he too young to be left a lone . We were thinking of giving him a area where he can roam and eat and do his business .

[@EverythingDog]

Hey FH, congratulations on your new puppy! What an exciting and exhausting time. If he needs to be left alone for 3.5 hours, then I would set up a long-term confinement area for him, only until he can be crated. You can read about long-term confinement areas here: denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/

[@awsomegamer-100]

We have a 1.5 year old dachshund. We didn't really start alone time training until he was about 9 months old. We let him have free reign of the house (he seems to do worse when confinded in a cage/x-pen). However, he can't even go more than 5 minutes without barking or showing signs of distress. We have tried over and over again to leave him alone for 2, 5, 8 minutes with toys, treats, food, kongs, etc. Nothing works! Still barks and jumps at the door. We don't know what else to do or what we are doing wrong. We have to put him in doggy daycare just to have a weekly night out for a couple of hours. We are feeling very discouraged. Any suggestions for a stubborn dachshund?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Awesome, well, there is a lot ot unpack here and it would be better to have a conversation. In the meantime, I would video him and leave for 15 - 30 minutes videoing what happens. Leave him with lots of options, food toys and new toys. It's not unusual for a dog to bark when you initially leave, and to settle down after a while. If you want more detailed help, Id consider a 50 min Virtual Ask Me Anything Session. Here is the link: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@jenniferrivera1960]

Hi! Thank you for the video. Is there a way to modify this training for a puppy who is only crated at night? Our Pom puppy just turned 1 and my fiancé and I have both been working from home since we got him. We did some alone time training at about 4 months old and he went from freaking out if we weren’t in the same room as him to being more independent in the house. Unfortunately he hasn’t been left alone in the house yet and we’re not sure where to start up again. Thanks in advance for any advice!

[@EverythingDog]

Jennifer, start slowly, time how long you are going, starting with 5 min, maybe 10 minutes. Get a camera so you can watch him from your phone. It's is the only way to know what he's doing when you are gone. He needs to learn that you go away and come back. Gradually increase your time away. Be sure to tell him you'll be back. He'll understand the meaning after enough repetitions. Make sure he has plenty of exercise and that there is plenty for him to do in your absence. Bones, chewies, water etc. Things that you know are safe for him.

[@jenniferrivera1960]

@@EverythingDog Thank you very much! Would you recommend doing a little bit every day?

[@EverythingDog]

@@jenniferrivera1960 only if it's not too stressful for him/her.

[@juliawicker5237]

Hi there :) I LOVE your advice. Thank you so much for this helpful video. I have a couple of questions just to get it right: 1.) after how many days should you start training ‘home alone training’ after the puppy became part of the family? My puppy is 10 weeks old, we have him for three days. Can I already start training? Or will this increase any anxiety because he’s not fully settled in his home yet? Do we need to wait a week or so? Do I understand right that you should start right away like your daughter? 2.) what increments are acceptable? Starting with 2 min, then 5 min, then 10 min...? And so forth? Or should you already start with greater time spans? 3.) my puppy sleeps in the crate and also goes in the crate himself if he wants some quiet time, but gets sad when he’s alone for example when I take a shower. He will for sure cry when I am leaving him for 10-15 minutes. But that’s part of the training, right? 4.) how should you behave when coming back to the puppy? Big fuzz and excitement? Acting normal? Thank you so much for your help. Kind regards, Julia

[@mitza420]

I think you should start training as early as possible, my puppy iz now 7months old, time flies, I'm afraid she has separation anxiety...

[@Katslifes]

Hi my puppy is 7 month's and has never been left alone I just kept putting it off😒 she crys and runs from door ro window if someone leaves and others still in house. I NEED to go out myself now as feeling trapped even just half hour to shops but have left I left it too late or should I just start from tomorrow like you suggest? She is quite happy to take herself to another room to nap during day. Thank you.

[@EverythingDog]

Katslife, you are going to have to start slow with very short absences. She needs to learn that you will go away and come back.

[@ayimera]

My puppy (14 weeks) loves her crate but I can't even walk away for 30 seconds without her frantically barking, howling, crying. We've had her a month and we've tried to do short intervals of stepping away, but we have not been able to leave the house since we got her because she gets so stressed out when alone. How can we get her to not be so anxious when she can't see us? We put her in when she's tired with a high-value treat, but she completely ignores it.

[@EverythingDog]

hey Ayimera, this is a tricky situation. Have you closed the door and stayed in the room with her? Another thought is if 30 seconds is too long, reduce the time. It might look like this, put her in the crate with a high-value treat, close the door, feed her through the sides or top, let her out. Repeat, but very GRADUALLY, increase the length of time between the treats. One second, then 2 seconds etc. Write down exactly what you do so the next day you can build from that and not start all over again. it's not too late. If she continues to have high anxiety in the crate, then try an exercise pen or a long-term confinement area. denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/ also buy a camera that you can watch on your phone. You don't need to leae the house initially, just leave her alone, walk 2 steps away and return. Also, if you have a camera and leave her a little longer, you'll find out if she is hysterical for 5 minutes, 10 minutes and then settles down. It's not unusual for us to react and run back to her, but she is just learning that screaming and whining works to make you come back. She needs to learn that quiet gets you to come back. I'd ask the question once. Set up your camera and leave the house for 15 minutes watching her the entire time. See if she'll settle down once she realizes you are not reacting to her loud behavior.

[@beachlifeinspo]

Hello, we’re thinking to get a puppy but I’m not sure if it’s a good idea. My brothers leave to school at 8:30, and my mom comes back around 3 is that too long?

[@EverythingDog]

Angie, it is too long. You'll have to have someone come in to feed, potty and play with the puppy. All that isolation will not be good for a young pup. Check out puppy schools where she might be able to go for the day or dog walkers that will come in and stay for an hour or more.

[@aowelles5088]

We had our 10 week old puppy for 2 weeks now. We use a crate in the living room. Whenever I take a shower and put him inside the crate he barks and cries. Is there a difference between the type of emotion when he barks and when he cries?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey AO Welles, sounds like you are on the right track. Crating while you are showering helps with house training and teaching your puppy that you go away and you come back. Good for you. Puppies, just like babies will have different cries and sounds depending on their needs. I think you'll figure those out the longer you have the puppy. Trust your gut. If you want to discuss a bit more you can schedule a virtual, 50 minute Ask Me Anything: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@abimaelmartinez816]

I have an 8 week border aussie mix. I’ve had him for about two weeks now,he is wonderful when he’s around anyone in the family. Took me about 3 days to get him to sleep and love his crate. He sleeps in there, plays with his toys and everything. Only problem is that whenever you leave him in the room by himself he starts barking and crying. I’ve been watching videos of similar training. I’ll leave him alone for a min give him a treat if he’s not barking when I come back, do the same with 5,10, 20 min but he does well but the next day it’s starts all over again. He does well during the moments of training but anytime after it’s like we never did it, any tips or tricks to maybe help?

[@EverythingDog]

Abimael, it sounds like your smarty-pants puppy has figured out training sessions vs real life departure. Does that make sense? When you are REALLY going to leave the house to behave in a particular way, but when you are training you aren't doing those same things.

[@abimaelmartinez816]

@@EverythingDog ohh okay makes sense, other then leaving him alone all his training is going very well. Any other things to try or switch up to help? He does cry and bark whenever I actually leave

[@EverythingDog]

@@abimaelmartinez816 get a camera so you can watch him while you are out of the house. This is the BEST way to know what he is really doing while you are gone. Do a practice session. Leave him something yummy and long lasting in his crate. Say your "good bye" words (keep the phrase the same and over time he'll understand you are going away and coming back) then drive away. Watch him on your phone. How long does he cry for? How long until he settles down. Does he start to eat his chewies, then stop then start again? All this will tell you more about how he's really feeling when you are gone, not just your departure cues. If he's screaming all the time, he'll need more work, if he's beginning to settle down, that's great.

[@dgiamp]

Our dog is about 2 and a half now and hasn't been left home alone much since covid. We have been starting to leave him alone for small amounts of time uncrated in the house. We close the bedroom doors, as he likes to get into the laundry hampers...LOL. So far we've left him for 3 1/2 hours (last night) and he has been totally fine, no accidents and no destruction of anything. I need to increase this time up to 8 an hour work day. I know I should go in small increments slowing increasing the time, but by how much each time? 15 mins, 30 mins, 60 mins until I reach my 8 hour goal? Any advice you could give me, I would appreciate. Thanks, Dee

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Dee, good for you for recognizing that your dog needs a gradual introduction to being left alone. Do you have a camera you can watch him on? It would be helpful. Here is the link to a virtual, 50 minute Ask Me Anything Session where we can discuss this more fully. Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@dgiamp]

@@EverythingDog thanks for the link. Yes we do have a camera. Just need to set it up

[@codisanchez7686]

How do I do this with not wanting to use a kennel and don't have a puppy pen either. I need to be able to leave her home but don't want to use a kennel. If I do get a puppypen, how do I keep her from escaping.

[@EverythingDog]

@codisanchez7686 Kennels provide a den-like space for your puppy. My 9-year-old lab prefers to sleep under my desk, in a den-like setting and he sleeps in his crate at night...still....his choice. You may want to set up a long term confinement area for your puppy by placing an appropriate height baby gate at a bathroom doorway or other smallish room. You must puppy proof any space you use for this. You can read a blog about it here: denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/

[@renzbalboa752]

Hi! We’re planning to get a 3-month toy poodle. However, problem is that me and my wife have an eight hour work. But as of date, our work arrangement is alternate work from home/onsite weekly basis. But in October, we fear that we might be onsite everyday. Is it okay for us to get a toy poodle given the circumstances? Hoping for your response/advice on this. Thank you and stay safe!

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Renz, it's not going to be ok for the puppy to be home alone for 8 hours per day. Im not sure if that is what you are saying or not. You'll need a dog walker or a puppy daycare (specifically for puppies) or a combination of both to keep her mentally happy.

[@renzbalboa752]

@@EverythingDog thank you so much! 🙂 Stay safe. Love your very informative vids! 😊

[@firstlast8108]

How do you train them to free-range in house alone?

[@EverythingDog]

Can you be more specific? Are you asking how to leave the dog alone, in the home, when no one is home?

[@stevekrause5931]

Thanks for the helpful video. I have a couple questions: 1. What if during this training, you go away for 15 min or a half-hour, or whatever and when you return, the dog is crying/barking. Do you wait until the dog stops before entering the house or wait till calms down. What if he doesn't calm down -- enter anyway? 2. At what age should a puppy be taught to be alone? I have a 10-week old poodle. Is that too early to leave him alone for an hour or more? Thanks again.

[@EverythingDog]

When you arrive home, just enter the house regardless of what the puppy is doing. I may help her to know you are home. Play red light/green light as you approach her crate. When she is quiet, you approach crate, if she barks, you stop or move backward a few steps. She'll quickly realize that being quiet is what is working to have you move towards her. A 10-week-old puppy is still figuring out where she is, who you are, and the new patterns of her new home. She is learning ALL THE TIME. She should be learning a little bit each day that you go away and return. You could crate her when you shower, then let her out. that is an example of "going away and returning" It doesn't always mean you have to leave the house. Some crying and whining is expected at this age, but she shouldn't be in a full panic.

[@stevekrause5931]

@@EverythingDog Thanks for the great advice. Right now, at 11-weeks, I've been training her to be alone in her playpen while I'm out of the room for different periods of time. A few days ago, we got it up to 10 minutes. Now, we're up to 30 minutes. I plan on increasing the time each day with 1 hour being my goal over the next few days. She doesn't bark much, but whimpers quite a bit. Should I allow the whimpering to continue, or call her out on it? I've been allowing it so far because I don't want to be too nitpicky and over-correct her. Thanks again!

[@EverythingDog]

@@stevekrause5931 I wouldn't nit pick about the whining. She's still a baby. Sounds like you are on the right path. You could also leave her with an age appropriate puppy chew item to help keep her busy and to create a positive associaton. You leave AND she gets a yummy to chew on.

[@stevekrause5931]

@@EverythingDog Thanks. Yes, I always leave her toys and chewies, but she ignores them and seems too anxious to care about them. She also doesn't lay down and relax. She stands the whole time and sometimes moves in the playpen from one side to the other letting out mild whimpering sounds. She has a calming collar on and there is soothing music playing just outside her playpen. I wish she could learn to relax, but so far, it hasn't happened. Perhaps with time. Not sure what else I can do.

[@Shannaeselsor]

Great advice! But what do we do when the puppy starts crying? Let her cry it out?

[@EverythingDog]

Shanna, well that depends on the age of the puppy, and how long you have taught your puppy to be alone. If you've just started, then keep is short, 30 seconds, 60 seconds or a quick trip to the bathroom without the puppy all teach her that you go away and you come back. And if she's crying go back to her where she can see you, but do not let her out until she is calm. Your goal is to teach her that calm behavior gets her out and hysterical keeps her in. If your puppy is older, 6+ months and you have been doing this for a while and she's crying, then Id ask why is she crying? Does she need to potty etc?

[@Squid2005]

My exact situation w covid 😭 he always cries when we leave, we have not been good about doing this everyday and we’re about to go back to work, he’s 1 now, we leave him alone a lot but not everyday, should we always put him in a crate? Or is it ok to leave him to roam around the house when we leave for a few hours?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Sydney, how you leave him is really up to you and the dog. We just had a B&T dog with us that we needed to sort this very thing out with. If we crated her - she screamed almost the whole time. We videoed her so we would know exactly what was happening. If we left her in our office space, with other doors closed (Not roaming about the house) she whined a bit, then went to sleep near the door and moved to the couch. She was consistently better not being crated. We also left her with a brain toy, a bully stick or a stuffed kong for her to entertain herself with while we were away. We started with short departures so she would learn, we go away and we come back. She is doing much better in her home now. Be sure to video so you REALLY know what she is doing and you're not "making up stories."

[@Squid2005]

@@EverythingDog thank you!!!

[@EverythingDog]

@@Squid2005 You are most welcome.

[@SimaShahnavaz]

I have a 6 months puppy and I'll watch him on camera, he is just sleeping behind the door for 8 hours and doing nothing waiting for me, that makes me so feel bad. what should I do? he doesn't eat or pee :(

[@SPCScuba]

Hey Toby is a 11 week old golden retriever and if he is left alone in his kennel he whines and will poop. Time left alone is 30 ish minutes and we try to get him to go potty before we leave. Any suggestions?

[@amydenisesprivatechannel5575]

Hey John, Good for you for letting him potty before going into his crate. This issue could be a few things. If the crate is too big, some puppies will eliminate in it. Check the size. If the puppy is feeling anxious about being left alone or in his crate you'll have to teach him that you "go away and come back" in smaller sessions. Start where he can be successful. Is it 5 minutes? 10 Minutes? You may need to experiment and/or get a camera so you can see what he is doing and when anxiety begins. Ex. You leave Toby crated, check the camera and see that at the 10-minute mark he's sleeping, Id return to him while he's calm and let him out. Gradually build the time that you go away. Check out Crate Games by Susan Garrett or you can join our virtual puppy class here: services.denisemazzola.com/offers/LYuGna7e. Puppy class meets weekly via zoom and has a private FB page where we encourage you to post videos and ask questions. It's a great class.

[@annielee2172]

How to choose the right size of king? Thanks

[@EverythingDog]

the easiest answer is to buy larger than you think you need. YOu want to be able to really stuff it with food and make a fun puzzle toy for them.

[@heidithatcher7524]

Me and my partner are having a cockapoo puppy in the next t two weeks. My partner will be doing half days for the first week of having the puppy leaving at 730 and coming home at 12. We already have an area (kitchen) where the puppy will have its own section to wonder around in and have a place to eat drink and sleep (will have a crate there too). Would this be ok ? unfortunately we are not able to get any time off from work. The puppy will be 9 weeks old.

[@EverythingDog]

Your long-term confinement area sounds fine. Do you have a camera that will allow you to keep an eye on the pup from work? Be sure there is a clear potty area in the longterm confinement area. when you are home, spend as much time as possible so the puppy will continue to bond with you. A dog walker might be in order once you go back to working all dday. the puppy will need lunch and attention during the day.

[@heidithatcher7524]

@@EverythingDog thank you so much for replying. Yes we have a puppy camera that we can also talk through. And an area for the puppy to do it’s business. We are looking into a neighbour who works from home to pop over to check on the pup when we are full time

[@wayneshufelt3393]

This I is something we have not done even though we know we should have. Did with our other dogs but not this one. My wife and I are attending church services when we first got her but she was do frantic when we got back my wife started staying home. It's been a year+ since my wife and I have been to church together and our boarder terrier is now a year and a half. Is it too late to teach this? I'm thinking not but it will take more time to accomplish the end goal. What say you.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Wayne, you can certainly still work on this. Get a camera so you can watch your dog through your phone. Start with leaving for 5 minutes observe what he is doing and adjust accordingly. He needs to understand that you go away and come back. Some dogs do have an anxiety attack when left alone, but it's way too soon to determine that for your dog. And remember, it's ok for the dog to be uncomfortable for a short period of time. Everyone, including our dogs, have to learn to deal with stress, but if you are always protecting him from feeling stress it's a real disservice.

[@jaenongbet]

Please help me, a first time pet owner and I just got him for a few days now but I just learned that I have school soon and there's no one to look after him since all my family members work ..I'll be gone for 5- 7 hours or less and for now he simply cannot be alone and barks and cries whenever we leave him even after giving food and taking him out for a walk..he's a cocker spaniel 7 months old and I heard that they have been known to have seperation anxiety..is there any way I can train him to be alone and enjoy his own company?

[@EverythingDog]

Hi Jae, there is a lot you can do. Let's chat. Book you 50-minute Virtual Ask Me Anything here: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@missdoke1669]

My 11 week old Coton de Tulear puppy is trained to sleep in her crate. During the night she does not pee or poop in there. I wonder what will happen when I crate her for longer periods of time during the day. She usually needs to go potty a lot more during the day. When I eventually go back to work(7 weeks from now) I want her to feel comfortable while I’m gone. Do you have any advise?

[@EverythingDog]

Congratulations on your new puppy! Coton's are adorable. She will need an long term confinement area. Check out this blog: denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/

[@cyrilgeorge8554]

Hello, we are getting an 8 week old Border Collie towards the end of the year and once the pup turns 15 weeks old the family will go back to normal times about 5-7 hrs. We have planned to buy a play pen attached to a crate and we need advice on whether we should place him inside(tiles) or outside (half on grass to pee and half on concrete for the crate). Please reply asap. Thanks

[@EverythingDog]

Sounds like it would be best for a 50 minute, virtual Ask Me Anything. Click here: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@rileyhoenes5303]

Which is better for a puppy, Exercise pen or a crate?

[@EverythingDog]

It's not so much which is better, as much as which one works for you, your puppy and your situation. Both will help with house training. Just be sure they don't give the puppy so much space that he/she will potty in in.

[@mireillegenier]

Hi there! We just got our puppy (he's a 9 week old cockapoo) and we've been doing alot of crate training during our time off work. Friday we both go back to work. My husband works 12 hour shifts and does shift work and I sometimes have to work 10 hour shifts. What would you recommend for the puppy for have a successful experience in his crate when we are gone? My husband wants to stick with the crate and not confuse him with a x-pen and pee pad, Or even a small room. Is it cruel to leave a puppy in a crate all day even if me or someone else comes home every 2 to 3 hours to let him outside? I want to make sure I do the right thing for him.

[@EverythingDog]

Hello Mimi, If I am understanding this correctly, there is no way your 9-week old puppy can stay crated for 10 - 12 hours. At this young age, 2 to 3 hours would be the longest he could be crated. Your puppy is simply too young to hold his "business" that long. He needs access to water, a mid-day meal, toys, a bed, and yes a potty area. You'll need to set up a long-term confinement area for the puppy. And or get someone to come in and take him outside every 3 hours. Here is an article on Long term confinement areas: denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/

[@dchocolate44]

I am about to get a puppy, I work 8-4. I have a play area that allows for food, water toys and pee pad. I also will have her crate in front of the TV, and keep it on. Will this be okay leaving her home?

[@EverythingDog]

@@dchocolate44 sounds like a long-term confinement area set up, which we recommend. It is a long time for a young puppy to be all alone. Do you have a dog walker, friend, or family member who could come in and take the puppy outside? Give some 1:1 attention? Play with her? Or is there any type of PUPPY play school near you? Not forever but for a few weeks to help her adjust to being alone.

[@Seanscichlids]

How did the dog do? I am thinking of getting a Shihpoo myself, and I'm in almost the same boat as I am gone from home for almost 9 hours minimum.

[@Seanscichlids]

@@dchocolate44 How did this work out? I'm probably going to have around the same setup

[@jadakeryn5650]

I was thinking of getting a Havanese but I go to school from 9:00-4:00, what should I do?!

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Jada, it might be better to wait until your schooling is complete. It wouldn't be fair to the puppy to be alone for all that time. An older dog might be more suited to your current lifey style. Good luck

[@jadakeryn5650]

@@EverythingDog Thank you! I talk to my family and they said they would be willing to care for the dog with me! I'm glad you told me, thank you!!!!

[@carrierobinson9442]

My puppy escapes the dog pen so we need to use a crate. When I walk away from her she starts to bark so when I come back she is still barking is it bad to let her out while she's barking? I don't want her to associate barking with me letting her out of the crate but she will bark for a long time if I don't.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Carrie, It's not "bad" but you are correct in recognizing that you don't want to reward her barking with you returning. Have you tried putting a "cover" of some sort over the top of the pen? It's just a thought. Your goal with the crate is to make positive associations with the crate and stand there and wait for 5 seconds of no barking before you let her out. She is hard-wired to do what works, so if barking doesn't get her out but being quiet does get her out, she'll start to be quiet.

[@louiseoliver7250]

Hello. Can I see if I get a reply on this before I ask my question?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Louise, we reply to all comments and questions.

[@AyanokojiiKun]

isit possible to teach a toy poodle to be home alone for normal working adult that works in a 8 - 5 job?

[@EverythingDog]

Yes, it's possible regardless of the breed of dog. If the dog is anxious, not house trained, or a chewer, then they'll need a containment system. This article might help: denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/ If you need more specific help, maybe a 50 minute Virtual Ask Me Anything would be best: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@impactstockyy5591]

We recently got a a dashound she’s 8 weeks old and we are struggling with the barking when she’s alone she’s left for 1 hour max she can’t stand the creat and it’s got to the point where neighbours complaining hopefully this helps her

[@EverythingDog]

Congratulations on your new dashound. If you've just brought her home it makes sense that she is upset when left alone. Poor puppy, just left her litter, her home etc. Give her some time to adjust to the sights, sounds and smells of your home plus she needs to sort out your routines, which will become her routines. If you are following our house training protocol then she'll naturally be "left" for very short periods of time which will help her learn that you go away and you come back. All the best.

[@impactstockyy5591]

@@EverythingDog we have had her for a week now she is perfect when we are there she’s good as gold, I’ve been leaving her in her creat for about 15 mins and coming back she cries and barks a lot but done it abit today and she doesn’t seem to be crying as much

[@dwx]

I looked away for a second and that wasp freaked me out. Thought there was a wasp flying around me.

[@cjacquetpayne]

Hi! Our puppy is 2 months old and we leave her when we go to work in an ex pen. We have it where one side is her wee wee pads and the other her bed food. We have a camera and noticed she doesn’t pee while we r out. She actually holds it. Then we we get home She’s peeing out side the area we have for her. We don’t walk her because she doesn’t have her 2 set of shots yet. Not sure how can we set her space up while we r out where she can know to pee there and even when we r home she doesn’t get to go there

[@EverythingDog]

There isn't any reason she can't go outside to pee regardless of shots. Don't take her into the woods or around dog parks/runs etc. But your lawn should be perfectly safe. You inside set up sounds good. If you want more help, Book a 50 min virtual ask me anything: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@cjacquetpayne]

@@EverythingDog thank you so much. We live in an apartment in NYC so taking her outside makes me nervous. Thank you I’ll click the link if I need more help

[@sakusjournal]

Hey can we train Cockapoos to be home alone. Will they get separation anxiety

[@EverythingDog]

Sakunika, any dog/puppy can be taught to learn how to be alone. Cockapoos aren't any different. Slow and steady. Don't push them further than they are ready for. You can do it.

[@samuelmcghee2630]

Hello! My puppy does not seem to be at all food motivated. When I leave her with food she ignores it and immediately starts crying. I’m not sure how to reinforce good behavior when she cries the entire time

[@EverythingDog]

I can assure you, if your dog was lost, they would look for food, water and shelter. It doesn't sound like a motivation issue, it sounds like anxiety. If the dog is too stressed or distracted, they won't be able to eat.

[@michellelynngray]

I would find a real high-value treats something that is really tasty… How about cut up pieces of hotdog to have while you’re using that for training keep it in the refrigerator or something you find she likes a lot other than kibble

[@cheesebiscuit1493]

So my family just got an 8 month year old puppy. He whimpers and barks if we don’t let him out of his pen once he wakes up and can’t play by himself for very long. What should I do?

[@EverythingDog]

8 month old's are in their adolescent stage. If you've only had him a short period of time, he/she is still adjusting. If he/she has never been alone before then it's a new concept. The goal is to teach the dog "I go away and I come back." Start with very short departures, ALWAYS leaving the pup with something amazing, stuffed kong, bully stick or scattered food for him/her to find. You'll be teaching him/her that when you leave, something fantastic happens for them, a positive association. AND remember, it is OK for our pups to be upset sometimes. Life isn't rainbow and unicorns. You'll have to gauge HOW upset the pup is. Some whining is ok, time it to see how long it lasts and whether or not the intensity is decreasing. You can sign up for an 50 minute Virtual "Ask Me Anything" here: Everythingdog.as.me/AskMeAnything

[@cheesebiscuit1493]

@@EverythingDog Ok! Thank you

[@muresanana-maria1050]

What is your advice if i don't want to put my puppy in a crate or pen. He is a french bulldog, so he is small sized and i puppy proofed the apartment so he won't chew cables, choke or hurt himself on something. He is also trained to pee and poo in a specific place in the spare bathroom where I can wash the tiles. Do i really need a crate or pen or can he just be left free in the apartment? I work from home so we're together all the time and he is almost 4 months old now. I don't leave him alone more than 20 min. When I do leave i put treats inside a toy or peanutbutter but he ignores them completely and cries at the door. He also has his own bed he can go to. I thought him the "wait" command and that works for about 10-15 min, then he starts howling. How much crying is normal?

[@EverythingDog]

Tricky question. Depending on your "puppy's" age, is he fully house trained, do you have carpets he could chew on or plants? What is your objection to keeping him safe in a crate or pen?

[@muresanana-maria1050]

@@EverythingDog i just feel bad for him being trapped is such a small space. I only have carpet in my office and that room is closed when I leave, in the bedroom, hallway and his bathroom there are no carpets, no plants he can reach, no cables. I want him to have space to run and play if he wants to and not be trapped in a crate.

[@EverythingDog]

@@muresanana-maria1050 The reality is your dog will just sleep while you are away. For me, safety takes precedent over my feeling bad. Dogs love dens and cozy places to sleep. Set up a camera so you can see what he is doing while you are away. It will help tremendously.

[@muresanana-maria1050]

@@EverythingDog i did not know that. He's my first puppy and i though maybe he'll explore the house while I'm gone or want to roam around, but if he sleeps and is not being a prisoner I'm not opposed to a crate or pen. Thank you so much for your replies, they help a lot

[@kevywilliams3304]

What is an xpen

[@amydenisesprivatechannel5575]

Exercise pen for dogs. Amazon has them. They can be an alternative to crates.

[@julieannosorio2971]

Hi, is it possible to leave my puppy at night since I'm working on a graveyard shift? Thank you.

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Julie, I would still set your puppy up in a long-term confinement area so she has a clear eat, sleep area VS a clear potty area. I don;t think a young puppy should or could be crated for that long a time especially is no one is home. She'll need your attention during the day as well, do you have someone to help you so you can sleep?

[@alexie838]

Hi.. me and my 10 years old beagle & also 12 years old puddle had been move to new apartement.. they was bark and anxiety when I tried to leaving them home.. Is it normal because they had been not feel comfort in new place? How long it will goes well? Thanks

[@EverythingDog]

Alexie, your dogs are seniors, bless their hearts and a move can be upsetting for them. Keep your routines the same as much as possible and leave for short periods of time so they understand that you will go away and come back. If you were not in an apartment previously, then they may also be hearing other new sounds and that can be alarming to them. Play music when you leave or use a noise machine. I don't know how long it will take. They'll adjust slowly. Good luck.

[@alexie838]

@@EverythingDog I had try everyday to leave them start from 5 minutes, then 15 minutes, and yesterday for 30 minutes.. they was looks little controled.. sometimes was barking but just onces.. so, If tomorow I shold go work for 5 hours.. is it possible to be try?

[@EverythingDog]

@@alexie838 If you have to go to work, you have to go to work. I would suggest getting a camera that you can watch on your phone so you know what exactly what they are doing. Talk to your neighbors and tell them you are working on getting your dogs settled. Ask them to call or text you if there is a problem.

[@mirvasopanen1403]

And what if when the puppy cries in the puppypen? I don’t have crate, i don’t want that. I have small space for him.

[@EverythingDog]

Well, it depends on several factors. Does the puppy need to potty? Does she have water? Or is she crying because you've walked away? If it's the last one, it's ok for the puppy to be a little upset, she is learning that you walk away and come back. If she's hysterical, we should talk. everythingdog.as.me/

[@imcoorey]

Is it too late to train at 2 years old? Mine has separation anxiety. I go back to work next week and am a little worried and also upset I didn’t do this earlier,

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Cooreyteebz, Don't feel bad, most people don't seem to do this until they need to. What is your dog doing when left alone? Do you have a camera? Many people tell me their dog has Separation Anxiety, which is a panic attack when left alone, but many times the dog is just being a dog and having a good time at our expense. It's never too late to teach your dog that you go away and come back. Every day, multiple times per day, you need to leave your dog, drive away for 5 min, then return, do it again leaving for 10 minutes then come back. If you did this 5x per day, adding time each time, you could get it done for your dog. Sounds like currently, your dog doesn't have a PRECEDENT for being left alone, he doesn't understand that you will come home. Start NOW.

[@imcoorey]

@@EverythingDog I can hear her whine or bark at the door as i leave the apartment complex but haven’t caught her barking on camera, she’ll sit and stare at the door for as long as it takes however, no destruction of furniture and i always leave treats, food and the tv on for stimulation. To be fair i think i’m the one with separation anxiety after re-reading my comment haha

[@EverythingDog]

@@imcoorey hahaha, that could very well be.

[@sofgrove4371]

Hi, I have a 13 week old Cocker Spaniel, had her since 9 weeks and have always done 10 mins , 15 mins and even up to an hour of alone time so she can get used to it however I have now set up a camera and she barks the whole time and looks like she is looking for us, will she get used to this the more we do it? She’s confined to the kitchen and hall, all other doors closed. Thanks!

[@EverythingDog]

Good for you for starting to leave her in gradually increasing times. I may have more questions than answers. Go back to a short time frame and watch her on the camera. If she is ok, say, at 5 minutes, then stay at 5 minutes for a few days, next try 10 minutes. if she's barking the whole time, drop back to 6 minutes etc. Does that make sense? I would also leave her some high value chewie things to occupy herself with. An easy stuffed kong, pigsear, etc.

[@sofgrove4371]

@@EverythingDog thanks so much for coming back to me! I will definitely give that a try I’ve left her in her confinement area this morning and I am working in a different room and so far she pretty much settled straight away. Is this because she knows I’m in the house? Is it still a good way for her to learn to be on her own, it’s been an hour so far and I’ve not heard a peep

[@EverythingDog]

@@sofgrove4371 Yes, it's a good way for her to learn you go away and come back. Go back to her when she's QUIET, not when she starts barking etc. Don't push her. Did you leave her with yummy chewie items? Watch the camera and when she is settled, that would be a time to return. So she learns that calm behavoir brings you back. You'll be reinforcing calm behavior.

[@sofgrove4371]

@@EverythingDog yeah I had left her with a kong, she did bark and whine to begin with but then settled down and was fine for a couple of hours and I’m trying a bit more time this afternoon as she’s been for a walk and had her lunch! Thank you for the advice! I will keep going with it and see how she does :)

[@sofgrove4371]

@@EverythingDog she’s done a couple of hours on her own in the morning and afternoon today and yesterday as I’ve worked quietly in a different room, will this help her for when I leave the house or will she know the difference of me being in another room and me leaving the house? Thanks :)

[@djhadloc]

Around how old (months) should a puppy be before he can be left alone at home?

[@EverythingDog]

Puppies can be left for very short periods of time, an hour to start. As they get older, they can be alone longer.

[@djhadloc]

@@EverythingDog i see. this video has been a big help. I've been wanting to get a furbaby for the loooongest time now, but I haven't done so considering I am out of my apartment 9 to 5 on weekdays. :(

[@PandyJarvis]

What do you do if they cry for attention though?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey @PandyJarvis, there are many factors to consider. Age of your puppy, how long you've had him/her and it's always good to know if the breeder started any alone training. Let's say your puppy is under 4 months and you've had him/her for several weeks. As long as the puppy isn't in a full-blown panic and doing damage to herself, learning to live with some stress and discomfort is ok. Everyone, dog and human need to learn how to cope with low level stress. Be sure you talk to her and tell her you'll be back. Id leave her with some yummy chewie items to keep herself busy while you are away. If you've never left her then begin with 10 minute departures and return. DO NOT LET HER OUT if she is barking, whining etc.

[@irenestelwagen8372]

Hi! i have a 9 week old mini dachshund puppy that barks and cries when i leave the room or even if i put him in a playpen and i stay in the room he cries. The only thing he wants is to stay very close to me and sleep on my lap. How can i train him to be alone and not so attached to me? Where do i begin to train him?

[@EverythingDog]

Hey Irene, great question. I'd be sure to always leave him with something that smells like you. A Tshirt you've slept in a few nights, socks etc. Scent is a dog's primary way of getting information. Next, Id make your leaving a POSITIVE experience for him. As an example, give him 10 small pieces of chicken, then walk away and return. Your goal is to create a positive association between leaving and him getting the equivalent of $100. You can give him a lightly stuffed Kong and walk away and return quickly. Try to ignore him the whole time he's crying. You want to teach him the crying will NOT WORK to get to you or to get your attention. Al the best.

[@irenestelwagen8372]

@@EverythingDog Thank you so much for your quick response i will try it and keep you updated! :)

[@Believe_become24]

We got the puppy (10weeks ) just 3 days back.. both of us are work and daughter goes to schools. Every time we leave , he cries at the top of his lungs… it’s sooo heart breaking to hear him cry… someone pls pls pls help me with suggestions of tips that worked for you.. 😢😢

[@EverythingDog]

Let's go, this is a HUGE change for your puppy. He's gone from living in an environment he was familiar with and was with his siblings to being ALL Alone! He has no concept of the fact that you leave and come back. If you have vacation time you can take, I would take it to help the puppy adjust. It's not all up to the puppy, you need to accommodate your life to his needs as well. He needs a long term confinement area that gives him a bed, water, toys and a clear potty area. denisemazzola.com/long-term-confinement/ I would look for a dog walker who can come and spend at least an hour with your puppy during the day. Lastly, what was your plan for a new baby (puppy) coming into your home?

[@monicalee1374]

Hi- at what age is good to start this? My pup is 6 months and I feel like I need to start now! Lol ~ he started in a crate for couple months but he will not go in there anymore , he pretty much has free reign to wander in the apartment with bathrooms and bedrooms closed.

[@EverythingDog]

Monica, Do you go to work and leave your 6-month-old pup home? Do you go grocery shopping and leave him home alone? All this is home-alone training. If you've never left him alone, then yes you need to start now. He needs to understand that you will go away and come back.

[@monicalee1374]

@@EverythingDog hi , he’s been going to work with me in the mornings then afternoon kids are working from home so he’s never been alone. I do short errands and as long as someone is home he’s ok.

[@EverythingDog]

@@monicalee1374 oh boy. Yes, you need to start home-alone training. You may want to get a camera so you can watch him when you are not home. YOu'll need to start with very short absences, 10 minutes, then 20 etc. Gradually build up to a full grocery shop. Also, pair your departure with something fabulous for him. Example, give him a Marrow bone (only if he's had one before) or a pig ear or other edible. Your goal is for him to look forward to you leaving because he'll get a special yummy.

[@monicalee1374]

@@EverythingDog thanks so much. Is there a camera that you recommend? It’s confusing with so many out there.

[@EverythingDog]

@@monicalee1374 No, sorry. Something inexpensive that connects to your phone!

[@alejandrobeltran8808]

Yeah, i understand. And it sounds really easy. But... What if the puppy gets insane and anxious, screaming and crying inside the crate since second one? What to do in that case? I don't know what to do. I got neighbors, i can't let the dog just get frantic and calm down... Help

[@EverythingDog]

Alejandro, great question and it's NOT easy. A lot depends on the breed of the dog and age of the dog and the history of the dog. If we are talking about an adult dog or any dog with past trauma in a crate, then we need to find another way to contain the dog that does not involve the crate. Weimaraners are known to have Separation Anxiety, so if you have this breed, I'd look into meds. If the dog is young and/or a puppy, I would go real slow. Feed the pup in the crate, door open, through treats randomly into the crate and let her go in and eat, do not close the door. Crate Games is a great product from Susan Garrett. Or trying an Exercise pen and not a crate might be better. It's hard to answer a complicated question without all the info, but hopefully this gave you a place to start.

[@alejandrobeltran8808]

@@EverythingDog it's a great place to start, thank you very much. It's a Belgian Shepard, 8 weeks, but yeah, i am trying slowly and it seems to be going well. It's just more difficult to potty train cause i don't have much control, but i think it's ok for now. I appreciate your reply. Thank you!

[@EverythingDog]

@@alejandrobeltran8808 Great. Check out this youtube video on house training. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKXXop2PoKyXi68 Tethering can work wonders for house training and it's how we house train any client dog that comes to us for Board and Train.