Can Labradoodles Be Left Alone? Separation Anxiety Tips

Labradoodles are known for being loving and loyal, and the flip side is that they can struggle when left alone. If you work outside the home, this is worth planning for before your puppy arrives.

How long can a Labradoodle be alone?

• Puppies (8 to 16 weeks): only about one to three hours at a time, depending on age.
• Adolescents (4 to 12 months): up to about four hours.
• Adults: many manage four to six hours, though most do best with a midday break.

No dog should be alone for a full workday on a regular basis without a break from a family member, neighbor or dog walker.

What separation anxiety looks like

• Barking, howling or whining when you leave
• Chewing doors, furniture or crates
• Accidents in the house in a dog that's already housetrained
• Drooling, pacing or trying to escape

Mild fussiness is normal in puppies. True separation anxiety is more intense and doesn't improve on its own.

Prevent it from the start

1. Teach alone time early. Practice short absences even when you're home. Put your puppy in the crate or pen with a toy for a few minutes, then return calmly.
2. Keep goodbyes and hellos low-key. Big emotions make leaving feel like a big event.
3. Exercise first. A walk or play session before you leave helps your dog settle.
4. Give something to do. A stuffed toy or puzzle feeder keeps their mind busy.
5. Build up slowly. Add a few minutes at a time.

Our crate training guide has a step-by-step plan.

The comforts of home

The littermate-scent blanket that comes with your puppy is a good start. Soft background sound, like a radio or TV, can help too. Keep your puppy in a safe, comfortable area such as a crate or small pen so they can't get into trouble.

Help from others

If your schedule is long, consider a midday dog walker, a trusted neighbor or doggy daycare. A second dog doesn't always cure loneliness, but some dogs love having a buddy.

What not to do

• Don't punish your dog for chewing or accidents after the fact. They won't connect it to what happened.
• Don't suddenly leave a dog for hours after weeks of constant company.
• Don't let an anxious dog "cry it out" for hours.

When to get help

If your dog panics or hurts themselves, talk to your vet. A trainer who uses positive methods can help, and in some cases a vet may suggest additional support.

Choosing a puppy that fits your schedule

We match puppies by temperament. If you tell us you work long days, we'll help choose a puppy that suits your home. Mention your schedule on your application so we can make the right match.

Questions? Call or text me at 281-923-9266.