24 Small and Large Dogs You Can Leave Home Alone
Adopting and taking care of a dog is a huge decision and time commitment, respectively. Which is why it's important to do your due diligence and find the dog breed that is right for your household so that your pup isn't neglected. Whether you are looking for a dog for a home occupied by mostly seniors or a quiet dog breed that won't upset your neighbors in the apartment building, there are major pros to adopting one of these dogs that can be left alone. Independent dog breeds range in size, coat, and personalty, but one thing they all have in common is low separation anxiety.
From small white dogs like the Maltese to teddy bear dog breeds like the Chow Chow, dogs that can be left alone are the opposite of Velcro dogs — meaning they won't cling to you as you move from room to room. That isn't to say that these dogs don't still require proper training and lots of love, but they can be left at home for a few hours while you run errands, without ripping apart your favorite slippers or wetting the carpet. It's still important to watch out for any dog behaviors that might indicate they are being left alone for too long, though. Here are 24 dog breeds that can be left alone for reasonable periods of time.
Basenji
Nicknamed "the barkless dog," the Basenji is an independent dog who won't mind some time alone. According to the American Kennel Club, however, they are fairly energetic and you'll need to help them burn off their energy when you get home. This can mean walking around the neighborhood, playing fetch in the yard, or going to the dog park.
Chow Chow
The lion-like Chow Chow is always clean, refined, and dignified, according to the AKC, meaning they'll do just fine unsupervised in your home. They do require regular exercise, so you'll have to commit to a few good walks before and after work.
Bullmastiff
Despite the fact that the Bullmastiff can weigh up to 130 pounds, it's a docile dog when at home, the AKC says. Some are more sedentary than others, but most enjoy getting exercise by taking a brisk walk. A bonus is that Bullmastiffs were originally bred as guard dogs, so your home will be a little safer with one around.
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Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are known for their tiny stature, usually weighing no more than six pounds, making them great dogs for an apartment or small home. They're fairly independent, according to the AKC, but require a firm hand when training in order to be left alone.
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Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are incredibly cute and always ready for a formal occasion with their tuxedo coloring. Bostons love having toys to play with, according to Barking Royalty, so just make sure to leave a few out when you go out to keep them occupied.
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Basset Hound
The AKC notes that Basset Hounds are very independent: This makes them a bit more challenging to train, but it means that they'll be fine being left home alone. And if their adorable droopy ears weren't already the selling point, they're also mild and love to get affection from their family.
French Bulldog
This small stocky breed was bred for city life, according to the AKC, meaning they don't require a significant amount of exercise. They're also on the quieter side, meaning they won't bark while you're gone and bother your neighbors.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos will run around your home to burn off energy and are good at entertaining themselves, the AKC notes. They're also low-shedding, which is great for maintenance purposes.
Maltese
These extremely friendly, low-shedding pups are compact and can get most of their necessary exercise by running around the house, according to the AKC.
Greyhound
Greyhounds may be known for whipping around a racetrack, but these big dogs are "perfectly happy to lounge around the house all day," according to the AKC. They do, however, require opportunities to stretch their legs and go for a run.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are friendly and eager to please, making them a dream to train, the AKC says. And because of their small size, they do well in a smaller house or apartment. Just be sure to leave a few toys out to occupy them while you're gone.
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Shar Pei
Shar Peis are both independent and serene, according to the AKC, making them a perfect fit for someone who's out of the house for several hours. They're known for their intelligence but can be quite stubborn, so you'll have to be firm and consistent when training them.
Dachshund
According to the AKC, Dachshunds won't grow taller than 9 inches or weigh more than 32 pounds, which makes them a mini pup perfect for a small home with kids around. They are also innately brave and independent as they were bred to be hunters of dangerous prey.
Labradoodle
Petplan describes Labradoodles as extremely friendly and outgoing, but also curious and vocal. While they can be left alone for periods of time, they can suffer from separation anxiety. The breed can also become quite destructive if bored, so if you leave the house to run a quick errand, make sure to leave out some doggie toys for them to play with while you're gone.
Scottish Terrier
Although Scottish Terriers may not be great around other dogs, they are super independent and confident, making them an ideal dog that you can leave home alone without worrying. The AKC even describes them as almost human in behavior, and they make excellent watch dogs.
English Foxhound
With an elegant body type and perfectly level back, English Foxhounds are determined creatures driven by primal instinct. They care mostly about pursuit and training, which means that as long as you leave them entertained, they will be all good while you step out for a bit.
Small Munsterlander Pointer
These athletic and affectionate dogs are trainable and have great social behavior. Small Munsterlander Pointers are capable of learning new tricks, which means you can train them to be on their own while you are at work and the kids are at school.
Otterhound
Otterhounds are known for their shaggy coat and affinity for swimming, as they were bred for the now outlawed hunting of otters. These dogs are affectionate towards people, but have an acute sense of smell — so make sure you hide the treats before you head out.
Shiba Inu
The ancient Japanese breed was brought to the U.S. 60 years ago and has since grown in popularity in the West. These well-muscled dogs are adaptable, bold, alert, and confident.
Pug
Pugs are great with children and "live to love and to be loved in return." This means that the small but muscular creature needs a fair amount of attention, but are trained house dogs through and through.
Bull Terrier
While Bull Terriers are sometimes referred to as the most comical and mischievous pups in the dog kingdom, they are also devoted pets that require early socialization and proper training. You need to give them lots of love, but as long as they know you are coming back, they will keep themselves entertained until you return for cuddle time.
Whippet
Whippets are lean and fast dogs that are synonymous with grace. They enjoy chasing something and being loving companions to their owners. But they also love stretching out and relaxing for hours on end — which means they can snooze while you grab a bite to eat out with friends.
Beagle
These dogs are loyal companions and happy-go-lucky in nature. Since they were bred in packs, they enjoy company, which may mean they would be best left alone with another furry buddy.
Golden Retriever
One of America's most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are obedient and serious hunters who have been trained for search and rescue missions. They are easy to train, family dogs who are outgoing and trustworthy — so you won't come home to a broken vase on the floor.
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