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August 09, 2021

At what point will a puppy be ready to be left home alone most of the day while my wife and I are at work?

Full Question:

Hello, I want to start off by saying I thank you all so much for all the training content you all give to dog enthusiasts like myself. I went to college at UW Eau Claire and heard about your website through the grapevine and have been hooked ever since.

I have a quick question regarding raising a puppy. My wife and I are both teachers and work full days.

We are getting a puppy mid July and will be starting school come September. I was wondering at what point (with diligent crate training) can a puppy be home for most of the day.

Additionally, what are some strategies you suggest to potty training with working full days?

Thanks so much for your time and content again!

Cindy's Answer:

Hi there,
Nice to hear from you.

I'd suggest watching some of our puppy videos now, before you get the pup. It covers how to set up your house, crate, expen, etc.. There is no way to predict when your puppy will be able to be home during the day since they are all wildly different.

What breed and how old will your puppy be when you get him or her?

Cindy's Answer:

You may want to line up a dog walker/pet sitter or family member to give your puppy potty breaks when you first go back to school. Also put your puppy on the schedule you will be on in September from the beginning (as close as you can)

It will make it much easier for the puppy in the long run.

User Response:

We will be getting a bernedoodle at about 7.5 to 8 weeks old. That is great advice and I will definitely be watching some of your videos. I was thinking the dog walker/family member route as well, but wasn't sure your guys thoughts on when a dog may be ready to spend majority of the day in his/her crate without ruining progress we have made potty training by the dog having accidents while we are gone.

Thanks much!

Cindy's Answer:

You're very welcome. It's hard to predict when a dog is ready for all day crating, I have a 7 month old that would likely stay clean all day but he would be VERY wound up when he finally did get let out. Once you get your puppy, get to know the personality and energy level and start working with him/her you'll have a better idea.

You can always drop me a message here as well if you need some input. :)

User Response:

That is very helpful, thanks for the input and thanks for all the amazing information you all provide!

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