Leaving a dog at home while heading to work or running errands can trigger anxiety for both the owner and the pet. Dogs are naturally social, and isolation can lead to separation anxiety. However, with proper training and preparation, pets can feel secure and relaxed during short separations. Dog trainer Sarah Hodgson, author of Dog Anxiety for Dummies, recently shared three essential strategies to keep dogs calm when home alone.
Why Calmness Matters
When leaving a dog home alone, creating a relaxed mental state is crucial. Dogs that feel agitated or anxious are more likely to develop behavioral problems such as destructive chewing or territorial aggression. According to Hodgson, the goal is for the dog to feel peaceful and settled when the owner leaves, not alert or stressed. “When thinking about leaving your dogs home alone, here is a big thing to consider: when you leave the house, you want them to be relaxed. You don't want them to feel agitated, anxious, or aggressive,” she said in a viral TikTok video.
Create a Safe Space
Hodgson suggests establishing a dedicated safe space while away. If dogs are left in a room with open windows overlooking the hallway or street, they will “assume the role of border patrol.” When someone passes by or a sound is detected, they will “react in a territorial fashion.” To prevent this, a safe space—such as a room that brings comfort or a ‘doggy den’—helps the pet associate security and comfort with being alone.
Use Sound-Cancelling Music
External noise is often overlooked in canine anxiety. Hodgson recommends playing sound-cancelling music or calming background audio to mask outside noises. Removing this external trigger helps the dog feel more relaxed. Soft music or specially designed pet-calming audio can significantly reduce anxiety levels throughout the owner’s absence.
Keep Your Calm Upon Reunion
How an owner greets the dog upon returning home is equally important. Hodgson suggests keeping energy levels calm and composed. “When you come in, you want it to be a joyous occasion, but keep your energy level calm, and they'll mirror what you're modelling,” she said. The trainer emphasized that developing a “calmer home-alone routine means a more relaxed dog throughout the day.” By implementing these simple strategies, owners can help their dogs feel secure and comfortable when home alone.
