While we all enjoy spending time with our Golden Retrievers, sometimes we have to part with them for a few hours at a time. However, you might wonder how long it is too long to leave your Golden Retriever alone safely.
You can typically leave your Golden Retriever alone for four to six hours at a time, but never longer than eight hours. If your Golden Retriever is a senior or a puppy, you should be even more careful about how long you leave your dog alone.
Can I leave my Golden Retriever alone?
Yes, Golden Retrievers can be left alone. They should not be left alone for more than eight hours. Four to six hours is a reasonable time to leave your pup alone before needing to be checked. Most Golden Retriever owners work full-time jobs and sometimes cannot check in with their dogs while away from work.
If possible, try to check in with your dog on your break at your job or have a friend or family member check on your Golden Retriever.
Golden Retrievers are a curious, friendly, and playful dog breed. They require constant supervision, especially when they are puppies. Before leaving your Golden Retriever home alone, there are a few things to take into consideration:
Separation Anxiety
Golden Retrievers often suffer from severe separation anxiety when away from their owner. If you leave your pup home alone for a few hours, it is wise to have someone come and check in on your furry friend.
If Golden Retrievers are home alone for longer than six hours, their mental health will begin to suffer. Some common signs of separation anxiety in Golden Retrievers include excessive barking or howling, excessive drooling, pacing, whining, destructive behaviors like chewing or digging and having potty accidents in the house.
Potty Training
A healthy adult Golden Retriever can last as long as eight without needing to urinate. Sometimes, they can wait even longer before needing a potty break.
Typically, vets recommend that you give your dog a potty break every six to eight hours. If your Golden Retriever is a puppy, you cannot leave your puppy home as long as an adult.
Golden Retriever puppies will need a potty break the same number as they are months old. If your Golden Retriever puppy is three months old, he will need a potty break every three hours.
Crate-Trained
Many Golden Retrievers are trained to stay in their crate for hours at a time. However, leaving your pup in their crate for too long can negatively impact their mental health. You should not leave your Golden Retriever in a crate for six to eight hours.
If your dog has an accident inside the crate, it will make them feel uncomfortable and upset. Not only will their mental health suffer, but their physical health will also suffer due to lack of exercise.
Final Thoughts
Can Golden Retrievers be left alone? Your Golden Retriever can certainly be left alone. However, as a responsible pet parent, it is wise to be there for your Golden Retriever as much as possible.
