Can You Leave German Shepherd Home All Day?

Do you have a German Shepherd? If so, are you able to leave him or her at home all day while you’re gone? Depending on your answer, this blog post might be for you.

In today’s post, we’ll be discussing whether or not leaving a German Shepherd at home all day is a good idea and what you can do to make sure he or she stays entertained. Let’s get started!

Can I leave the German Shepherd at home?

Yes, you can leave the German Shepherd at home. They are not prone to separation anxiety and can be left alone for extended periods of time without issue. Just make sure to provide them with plenty of food, water, and toys to keep them occupied.

How long can you leave a German Shepherd at home?

There is no definitive answer to how long a German Shepherd can be left at home, as it depends on several factors such as the dog’s age, temperament, and level of activity. 

However, most experts agree that it is best to not leave a German Shepherd alone for more than four hours at a time. 

If you must leave your German Shepherd alone for longer periods of time, it is important to make sure that he or she has plenty of food and water, as well as access to a comfortable place to rest.

black gsd

Can you have a German Shepherd if you work full time?

Yes, you can have a German Shepherd if you work full time. You will just need to make sure that you are able to provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need. 

German Shepherds are very active dogs and require a lot of daily exercise. If you are not able to provide them with enough exercise, they may become destructive or start barking excessively. 

Mental stimulation is also important for German Shepherds. They need to be challenged mentally in order to stay happy and prevent boredom. 

There are many ways to provide mental stimulation for your dog, such as training games, puzzle toys, and nose work. 

As long as you are able to give your German Shepherd the exercise and mental stimulation they need, they will be a great companion for you even if you work full time.

Can a German Shepherd be left alone for 5 hours?

Yes, a German Shepherd can be left alone for 5 hours. However, it is important to make sure that the dog has access to food, water, and a comfortable place to rest.

Additionally, it is important to provide the dog with some form of mental stimulation, such as a toy or puzzle, to prevent boredom. 

Finally, it is important to ensure that the dog has plenty of exercise before being left alone for an extended period of time.

barking german shepherd

How Long Can You Leave German Shepherds Alone by Age?

Many dog owners are curious about how long they can leave their German shepherd alone. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your dog’s age, health, and temperament.

Puppies:

Puppies under six months old should not be left alone for more than two hours at a time. They need frequent bathroom breaks and socialization during this critical period of development.

Adult dogs:

Adult German shepherds can typically be left alone for four to eight hours at a time, but this may vary depending on the individual dog’s needs. 

Some dogs may need less alone time, while others may be able to handle more. It is important to get to know your dog’s individual personality and needs in order to determine how much alone time is appropriate.

Senior dogs:

Older German shepherds may need more frequent potty breaks and may not be able to handle as much alone time as younger dogs. It is important to consider your dog’s age and health when determining how long he or she can be left alone.

When leaving your German shepherd alone, it is important to make sure that he or she has access to food, water, and a comfortable place to rest. 

You should also provide your dog with some toys or chew bones to keep him or her occupied during your absence. German shepherds are intelligent, active dogs who need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. 

If you will be gone for an extended period of time, it is a good idea to hire a dog walker or pet sitter to provide your dog with some companionship and exercise.

German shepherds are loyal, loving dogs who make great companions. With proper care and attention, they can be a part of your family for many years to come.

What Happens if You Leave a German Shepherd Alone for Too Long?

If you leave a German Shepherd alone for too long, they may become anxious or bored, which can lead to destructive behavior. 

German Shepherds are social animals and need companionship to be happy. If you must leave your dog alone for extended periods of time, make sure to provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied. 

Crate training can also be beneficial for German Shepherds who tend to get antsy when left alone.

How to Leave Your German Shepherd Inside When You’re Away?

Leaving your German Shepherd inside when you’re away can be a tough decision. You may worry about their safety or whether they’ll have enough to do. 

However, there are ways to make sure your German Shepherd is comfortable and safe while you’re away. Here are a few tips:

1. Make sure your German Shepherd has plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied. This could include chew toys, Kongs filled with treats, and puzzle toys.

2. Leave them with plenty of food and water. If possible, set up an automatic feeder and water dispenser so they always have access to fresh food and water.

3. Make sure your home is safe and secure. Remove any potential hazards such as chemicals, medications, and small objects that your German Shepherd could swallow.

4. Provide them with a comfortable place to sleep. This could be their crate, bed, or a designated spot on the couch or floor.

5. Ask a trusted friend or family member to check on your German Shepherd while you’re away. This person can make sure they have food and water, take them for a bathroom break, and provide some companionship.

Following these tips will help ensure that your German Shepherd is comfortable and safe while you’re away from home.

10 Tips To Leave Your German Shepherd Alone

1. Get a dog sitter: If you’re going to be gone for more than a couple hours, it’s best to hire a dog sitter. This way, your German Shepherd will have someone to provide companionship and keep them company while you’re away.

2. Set up a safe space: Before you leave, make sure your German Shepherd has a safe space to stay in. This could be a kennel or designated area in your home where they feel comfortable and can relax.

3. Leave them with toys: Leaving your German Shepherd with their favorite toys is a great way to keep them occupied while you’re gone. Make sure the toys are safe and won’t pose any choking hazards.

4. Give them a treat: If you want your German Shepherd to really be content while you’re away, leave them with a special treat. This could be a Kong toy filled with their favorite food or a rawhide bone to chew on.

5. Put on some music: Playing soothing music while you’re away can help your German Shepherd relax and feel less anxious. Choose tunes that are calming and won’t excite them too much.

6. Turn on the TV: If your German Shepherd is used to having the TV on during the day, consider leaving it on for them while you’re gone. This will provide some background noise and distraction from your absence.

7. Leave a shirt: Leaving a worn shirt or piece of your clothing behind will help your German Shepherd feel comforted and secure. The scent of you will be a reassuring presence for them.

8. Consider crate training: If your German Shepherd is crate trained, this can be a good option for leaving them alone. Make sure the crate is comfortable and not too small, as this could cause anxiety.

9. Get another pet: If possible, getting another pet for your German Shepherd to spend time with may be helpful. This could be another dog, cat, or even a small animal like a rabbit.

10. Hire a professional dog walker: If you’ll be gone for long periods of time regularly, hiring a professional dog walker to come in would be suggested.

Final Thoughts

So, can you leave a German Shepherd at home? The answer is yes, but there are some things to consider. 

How long can you leave your dog alone depends on their age and how comfortable they are being left alone. 

If you have to leave your dog for an extended period of time, make sure they have plenty of food, water, and toys to keep them occupied. 

And if you’re ever unsure about whether or not it’s safe to leave your GSD alone, always err on the side of caution and ask a professional.

Leave a Comment