9 Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone For A Few Hours

If you’re always on the go and wonder if you can still have a dog, the answer is yes! Having a dog is a big commitment, but not all dogs need constant attention. Some dogs manage well on their own for several hours, perfect for busy lifestyles. While the RSPCA recommends not leaving dogs alone for more than four hours to ensure they get enough exercise and companionship, some breeds adapt better to spending time alone.

When choosing a dog, it’s important to pick one that matches your lifestyle. Avoid high-energy breeds or dogs with special care needs if you’re away a lot. Instead, think about getting an adult dog known for being calm and independent. Setting a consistent schedule from the start is key to making sure your dog feels secure and happy.

Even with a hectic schedule, you can be a great dog owner. It just requires some planning and commitment. Ready to find a furry friend that suits your busy life? Here are 9 dog breeds known for being okay with having some alone time.

Dog Breeds that can be left Alone

1. Greyhound

Greyhounds are fast, graceful, and friendly dogs who love being around people. They enjoy being part of a group and form strong bonds with their owners.

They’re usually very chill and love to lounge around, which makes it easier for them to be on their own for a while. Each greyhound is different, though. Some might be okay by themselves for longer, and some might miss company more.

Greyhounds like to relax in cozy spots, so they’re less likely to get into trouble by chewing things they shouldn’t. However, being alone for too long can make them anxious. They have short fur, so they’re pretty low maintenance in terms of grooming.

Even though they’re known for racing, greyhounds need regular walks and fun activities to keep them happy and healthy. A good walk or playtime right before you leave can help them settle down and rest until you return.

2. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are loving dogs that really enjoy being with their people. But there are times when they need to stay home alone. While some adapt well on their own, others might need a bit of training to get used to it.

With the right training, you can leave a Basset Hound alone for a bit without worry.

Basset Hounds are pretty laid-back and love to nap, making them one of the best dog breeds for people who work full-time. They’re low-energy and might spend most of the day sleeping, whether you’re there or not. And they won’t make a big deal when you come home—that’s just their relaxed nature!

But, because they’re not very active, it’s important to make sure they get enough exercise to prevent obesity and other health issues. Basset Hounds are pretty easy to care for in terms of grooming. Their short fur means they only need a quick brush once a week. Bathing them is only necessary when they’ve rolled in mud or gotten really dirty.

Their easy-going nature and need for only moderate exercise make them a good match for busy owners.

3. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a loyal and playful dog that enjoys spending time with its family but is also quite happy when left alone. This breed is perfect for those who might need to leave the house without their dog for a while.

Lhasa Apsos are more independent compared to many other breeds, so they’re less likely to experience separation anxiety. They can keep themselves entertained, making them ideal for people who are out often.

Petplan assets that keep in mind that the Lhasa Apso was originally bred to be both a guard dog and a companion. While they might be standoffish with people they don’t know, they are very loving and affectionate with those they’re familiar with and trust.

If you have a smaller living space, a Lhasa Apso could be a great fit. They don’t mind hanging out at home and playing with their toys on their own. Despite their independence, Lhasa Apsos still love to play and are smart, needing daily walks and playtime to stay happy. Their grooming requirements can be high, especially if you keep their coat long.

4. Shiba Inu

Shibas are known for their loyalty, strong connections with their families, and active participation in household activities. The Shiba Inu cherishes its independence, fitting well in homes with or without children. They’re not overly clingy and don’t need constant affection or attention.

Despite their independent nature, Shibas do need enough exercise, especially if they’re going to be home alone during the day. According to Orvis, a Shiba Inu can handle being alone for up to eight hours, but to prevent boredom and potential mischief, like chewing on unsafe items, crate training might be necessary.

As they grow older, Shibas become even more independent. They’re quite self-reliant, coping better on their own than many other breeds, yet it’s essential for them to have regular interactions with others to remain happy. Even these somewhat cat-like dogs need a sense of companionship.

Shiba Inus have a natural inclination towards cleanliness, which generally makes them easier to housetrain. If they receive sufficient physical exercise and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartment living. However, without enough to keep them occupied, they might resort to destructive behaviors.

5. Maltese

The Maltese is a gentle and good-natured dog known for its playful disposition and companionship. While they enjoy being active, they don’t need a lot of exercise, making them perfect pets for those who work away from home. They greet their owners with great excitement and love spending time close by during the evenings.

Despite their small size, Maltese are quite independent dogs and can manage to be alone for a while without any trouble. They fit well into apartment living due to their adaptability to smaller spaces.

If your Maltese has had enough exercise, they’ll likely fall asleep shortly after you leave, spending much of their time resting comfortably. A quick walk or a playful session before you go can tire them out, leading to them dozing off quite quickly.

This bit of activity isn’t just good for tiring them out; it’s also great for their health and helps in preventing obesity later on.

Caring for a Maltese is fairly straightforward. Their long fur requires brushing just a few times a week. They’re smart and enjoy learning, making training a breeze as they’re keen to make their owners happy. Maltese dogs are also great with kids, offering affectionate and faithful companionship.

6. Standard Poodle

Poodles are known for their friendly, playful, and easy-going personality, making them excellent family pets. They get along well with children and other pets, especially when socialized early. Poodles enjoy being in the spotlight and are eager learners.

They are calm dogs, capable of staying alone for periods of time. However, when it’s playtime, they’re full of energy, loving to run, chase, and play.

Being highly social, Poodles need a good amount of family interaction. They can manage being alone for four to eight hours, but too much time without company can lead to separation anxiety and potentially destructive behaviors.

Poodles are also great for first-time dog owners because they’re easy to train and generally healthy. The main consideration for a Poodle is their need for regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition.

7. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a loving and lively breed, perfect for indoor living. They are incredibly affectionate, enjoy fun and games, and have a strong bond with their families, though they might be shy around strangers.

Because they thrive on companionship, Japanese Chins can experience separation anxiety if they are away from their families for too long. PetMD asserts that early training, especially crate training, can help them feel secure even when alone.

While they’re not big barkers, Japanese Chins will alert their families to strangers or unusual sounds. With their cat-like behavior, they enjoy resting in high spots like the back of a couch or an armchair, yet they still cherish outdoor walks and showing off their tricks.

Grooming a Japanese Chin involves managing their long, silky fur, which is quite straightforward. Regular brushing, about once or twice a week, and baths when necessary will keep their coat in good condition.

8. Pug

Pugs are a favorite among first-time dog owners because of their relaxed nature, making them great companions for nearly everyone, including other pets. They enjoy being close to their humans, whether that means sitting on your lap, sleeping snugly beside you, or trailing behind you at home. Pugs are also very sociable; they relish playing and interacting with both people and other dogs.

The AKC highlights that Pugs cherish being around their families and can become sad if left to their own devices alone too often. It’s advised to start them early on socialization and puppy training classes. Pugs win hearts with their charming looks and lively character, and they’re quiet, making them great for apartment living or shared spaces.

According to the ASPCA, Pugs are somewhat inactive and usually sleep around 14 hours daily. They love their food a bit too much and can easily gain weight, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on their diet. Though Pugs aren’t suited for intense activities, they still need regular, gentle exercise to stay healthy.

Pugs are considered low-effort in terms of grooming despite their shedding. A daily walk of just 30 minutes is enough to keep them fit, and a good vacuum can handle the hair they leave behind, making them a manageable companion for those seeking a low-maintenance pet.

9. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are known for their strong protective instincts, which means they form deep bonds with their owners. They may experience separation anxiety, so they thrive best in homes where someone is usually present.

While Bullmastiffs can manage being alone for short periods with toys to keep them entertained, their compatibility with other pets varies based on their upbringing. These intelligent and strong dogs need proper mental and physical stimulation, along with socialization, to prevent them from becoming difficult to handle.

Generally, Bullmastiffs are gentle and calm, but they can show aggression towards other male dogs and strangers when provoked. However, they are usually very patient with children and small pets. They may be cautious around new people, yet they show great affection towards their family.

Regular bathing and grooming are important for Bullmastiffs, not only to keep their coat healthy and minimize shedding but also to ensure good skin health. Depending on their activity level and environment, bathing can range from weekly to every six to eight weeks.

Conclusion

Choosing the best dog breed for those times when they need to be left alone involves considering independent dog breeds that are known for their self-sufficiency. Breeds like the Miniature Schnauzer stand out as they are not overly affectionate and can handle a few hours by themselves without issue.

Adult dogs, in general, may require as much exercise as younger ones but are often more adaptable to spending time alone. Regular visits to the dog park can help keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Guard dogs also possess the independence needed to be on their own for a while, making them not just wonderful companions but also protectors of their human families.

In conclusion, with the right breed and some preparation, your dog can enjoy their own company for a few hours, ensuring they’re happy and healthy until you return.