I have a rottie akita cross dog who is just over a year old. She is very very hyperactive and requires a lot of exercise. I have been working from home since I got her at 10 weeks (from the pound) and I am able to take her out several times a day. My work situation is changing and I am going to be working from an office away from home full time. I'll be gone from 7:30 am till about 6 pm every day. I live alone and do not have a yard. She is crate trained.

My issue is whenever I leave her alone for more than a few hours now, she chews. She has pulled up carpeting, and chews anything wood (furniture legs) and anything paper. I have given her kongs full of PB and treats and she has lots of toys. She never tries to chew things that aren't her toys unless I leave her alone. (Note: she doesn't always do it, it is every couple times) So - I was hoping to get suggestions of how to handle leaving her alone.

I hate the thought of leaving her in her crate all day, it seems so cruel. Also, she is use to going to the bathroom mid day, as well as getting that exercise. Any advice anyone has would be greatly appreciated. This is my first dog and I'm on a learning curb <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Crating is not cruel. Dogs are den animals.

If you absolutely do not want to crate the dog, confine her to a room without much in it for her to chew. I doubt that will work out though, given her age and energy needs.

This is 100% an owner problem, not a dog problem.

Crate the dog.
Sorry, this needs no further discussion.

Thread closed.