Do you have a busy lifestyle that requires you to be away from your home for about 8 hours on a regular basis? Are you also looking to get a dog who can be your companion but also can handle being left alone for 8 hours?
Despite the training that you may put some dogs through, some of them are simply not able to be left alone for so many hours. However, some dogs are naturally independent and can occupy themselves. We have compiled a list of 18 breeds for you to choose from.
Table of Contents
List Of 18 Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone For 8 Hours
1. Basset Hound
Despite their droopy and sad faces, Basset Hounds are cheerful family dogs. They can spend most of the day laying around and napping, and they are the ideal breed to be left alone for 8 hours because they also do not require much physical activity.
2. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small but strong breed commonly used as guide dogs. They are known for their overall positive character and independence, which are ideal traits if you plan on leaving your dog alone for 8 hours.
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Although prone to several health issues, the Miniature Schnauzer is an excellent companion breed. Their social and friendly nature makes them ideal for social owner who loves having people over or going out with their dogs.
4. Whippet
The Whippet is among the fastest breeds to roam the planet. Despite their ability to run at breakneck speed, Whippets can be lazy. They love to curl up around the house and not do anything for a while. They would move around and get food or relieve themselves.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are also known as big dogs in tiny bodies because of their significant attitudes. They are independent dogs who can spend 8 hours alone. Chihuahuas get along well with other Chihuahuas, so having a pair would allow them to entertain each other and not feel lonely.
6. Greyhound
The Greyhound is an exceptional family dog. They are eager to please their family so training them is easy. However, they love adventuring. Take your Greyhound for a long walk.
7. Beagle
The Beagle is a small and energetic breed. They were initially bred to be scent-tracing dogs; however, today, they are widely used as companion dogs because of their endearing nature. If you leave your Beagle at home for several hours, ensure that they get some intense exercise beforehand to release some of their pent-up energy.
8. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is the ideal breed for someone who does not have children and does not typically need an affectionate dog. Chow Chow is not great with kids, nor are they affectionate.
However, they can be affectionate once you have built a bond. Chow Chow tend to enjoy their alone time, so you would not have to worry about them while you are away.
9. Golden Retriever
Unsurprisingly, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Many dog owners adore their calm and friendly temperaments. Their sense of duty and need to protect their family allow them to adjust to various circumstances to please their owners.
10. Shar Pei
As a breed with a long-standing history as a guard, hunt, and fighting dog, the Shar-Pei are calm dogs from China. They are aggressive towards other dogs by nature which is a trait that is often exploited in illegal dog fights. However, their calm nature allows them he able to be left alone.
11. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu can not only be left alone, but they are also ideal for apartment living. They would be an excellent match for novice dog owners who want a dog that is easy to train and is socially at ease.
12. Pug
Pugs are mild-tempered dogs who are affectionate by nature. Although they are friendly, Pugs are not likely to partake in games such as fetch or chasing a ball around the yard for long. They can spend up to 14 hours of their day asleep.
13. Maltese
Maltese do not require much physical activity despite their playful and outgoing nature. They would be the ideal breed for someone who spends quite a bit of time away from home but does not have much time to take their dog out on frequent walks.
14. Basenji
These silent dogs have endless energy storage, but they are also strong-willed. They are ideal for an owner with a lot of perseverance and patience because they tend to be mischievous. If you enjoy a challenge and have a great sense of humor, the Basenji is your breed.
15. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog will be the perfect companion if you love to cuddle. French Bulldogs naturally have low energy and can spend the day sleeping and calmly going about their day. They would welcome you home warmly and cuddle up next to you whenever they have the chance.
16. Poodle
The Poodle is an intelligent but playful breed, and they are always eager to play fetch or some sort of game with you. These fun-loving dogs are also highly independent, which means that they can find various ways to cure their boredom when they are left alone.
17. Boston Terrier
The Boston terrier is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They love spending time with their family; hence leaving them alone may be tricky. However, if you ensure to give them sufficient attention when you are around, leaving them alone for 8 hours can be relatively simple.
18. Bull Terrier
Like the Boston Terrier, the Bull Terrier can also be left alone for 8 hours. The Bull Terrier’s sense of duty and protective nature enables them to stay alone for 8 hours. Although they are brave, you would hardly see your Bull Terrier reject your cuddles.
Can You Leave A Puppy Alone For 8 Hours?
No, you cannot leave a puppy alone for 8 hours. Your puppy’s brain and body are still developing; there are many things that they have not learned and experienced yet. Leaving them alone for that long will cause them to develop adverse behavioral tendencies.
Aside from the behavioral issues it may cause, they may harm themselves. Puppies are curious, and the world is still new to them. Your puppy may do something that may harm them, and you would not be there to help them.
Things To Consider Before Leaving Your Dog Home For Long Hours
Doggy’s Health Status
When your dog is sick or has an underlying health issue, leaving them alone for long hours is typically not good. An ill dog requires more attention than a healthy dog, significantly if your dog is affected by an illness that may cause them to vomit, experience diarrhea, or faint.
You would not want your dog to experience those symptoms while they are all alone. Some diseases, such as kidney disease, may cause your dog to have seizures. In such cases, you would have to contact your veterinarian depending on the length and severity of the seizure.
Exercise Requirements
Dogs who have high energy levels tend to have high exercise requirements too. You should be able to take your dog out on a walk or to the park for some playtime to fulfill their exercise requirements.
Some dogs tend to become restless or destructive if they are not allowed to release their pent-up energy.
Age
Your dog’s age is essential in determining how long they can be left alone. Because puppies are not yet mature physically and mentally, they require more supervision and company than older dogs.
Older dogs would have been able to build up a routine by now, and they know what they may and may not do. It would be safer to leave an older dog alone only if they have been accustomed to spending a lot of time alone; otherwise, you should first train them.
Bladder Control Of Your Canine
If your dog has a hard time controlling its bladder, you should not leave them alone for too long, and this will help prevent any accidents from occurring indoors. This is also true if your dog tends to relieve themselves rather frequently.
Behaviour Changes
If you notice that your dog’s behavior has changed, you should not leave them alone. Some dogs display signs of depression when they are left alone for too long, including lethargy, loss of appetite, and isolation.
Tips When You Leave A Dog Home Alone
- Before Leaving, ensure that your dog has the opportunity to relieve itself.
- Ensure that your dog is still able to get some physical activity.
- Make sure that your dog has something constructive to do when you leave so that they do not become destructive.
- Ensure that you leave enough food and water for them before leaving.
FAQ
Which Dog Breeds Can Be Left Alone During The Day?
Golden Retrievers, Pugs, Chihuahuas, and Boston Terriers can be left alone during the day. They can be left alone for about 8 hours, but you should typically not leave your dog alone for longer than that, or they may develop a sense of depression.
Should I Get A Dog If I Work All Day?
Yes, you should get a dog even if you work all day. Dogs are excellent and loyal companions, and knowing that your dog will be home to warmly welcome you will surely make your day at work even better. However, if you work for more than 8 hours, you should not get a dog.
Can You Have A Dog And Work 9-5?
Yes, you can have a dog if you work from 9 to 5. However, you should get a dog who can handle spending so much time alone. You should also train your dog to be able to entertain themselves constructively when you are away from home.
What Is The Best Dog If You Work All Day?
If you work all day, you should get a Dachshund. Dachshunds are independent and clever dogs who are also stubborn, making it challenging to train them. However, once you can train them, they are obedient dogs.
Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone For 8 Hours But Love To Cuddle?
Golden Retrievers can be left alone for 8 hours, but they also love to cuddle. Golden Retrievers are affectionate dogs who love curling up with their family and cuddling. If you work throughout the day but would also love to cuddle after work, a Golden Retriever would be ideal.
Which Dog Breeds That Don’t Mind Being Left Alone?
Greyhound, Maltese, Shar Pei, and Miniature Schnauzer do not mind being left alone. They are all independent dogs who can keep themselves busy and have a responsible nature.
Conclusion
When you have a busy lifestyle that requires you to be away from home for a significant portion of the day, but you also want to have a dog to spend your time with, you should look for a dog that can spend that much time alone.
The ideal dog would be an independent, responsible, and calm breed. Your dog should also not have health issues that require them to have adequate supervision. Remember also to train your dog to be able to spend time on their own from a young age.
