12 Dog Breeds That Can Stay Home Alone

Some dog breeds have more anxiety than others. If you are going to be away during the day, it’s important to have a breed that can handle being without you. Here are 12 dog breeds that can stay home alone.

Akita

This medium to large-sized Japanese dog is famous for being docile and dignified. This has helped this hunting breed to become a popular watchdog around the world. The fact that they can stay home alone is another critical characteristic of Akitas. However, they will demand a lot of your attention when you return. This independent breed is very reserved until they encounter a stranger in the absence of their parents.

Basenji

Hailing from Africa, Basenji was also developed as a hunting dog. The ever-active nature of this breed clearly reflects the exploring extinct. High levels of intelligence and independence make them an ideal option to leave alone. While you are away, they always try to find new ways of staying engaged. Basenjis are often called the “barkless” dogs because of their limited vocalizations. They don’t really bark and all you hear from this breed is whining, growling, and yodeling.     

Basset Hound

These hunting dogs are quite famous for their easy-going nature. This cool dog doesn’t mind being alone for most parts of the day as it loves to sleep. These couch potatoes are more than happy to keep relaxing on your couch while you are away. Given their sleepy lifestyle, they are prone to obesity and daily walks are necessary to keep them in good shape. Similarly, you should ensure a balanced diet to keep this short-legged dog healthy.

Boston Terrier

Generally, terrier dogs suffer from separation anxiety and can’t be left alone for too long. Contrary to that, Boston Terriers are quite independent and can spend a lot of time on their own. The 21^st most popular dog breed of the United States is quite fond of toys. Therefore, if you are working full-time, you should buy some amusing toys for your dog and he will be fine.

Boston Terriers do have a reputation of being stubborn but that can be managed through proper training during puppyhood.

Chow Chow

Probably the most self-dignified of all dog breeds, Chow Chows are NOT a fan of physical closeness, which makes them on of the best dogs to be left alone at home. Given their cute and fluffy appearance, it may seem a little difficult to believe but that’s how it is. It doesn’t mean that Chow Chows are not interested in their parents. In fact, it is their way of showing love and affection.

These dogs are exceedingly independent and it feels that you are living with a roommate. Similarly, they are extremely comfortable when left alone at home and can serve as an excellent watchdog. 

Greyhound

In contrast to their racing background, Greyhounds are equally comfortable as couch potatoes. Despite the fact that they are incredibly fast runners, they do love long naps. Given their training as racing dogs, they are used to staying alone and this makes them ideal for parents who work full-time.

Having said that, these gentle giants do need a daily walk/run to keep them happy. Unleashing these dogs in the outdoors is NOT a good idea because they are difficult to recall. However, if you have an enclosed space with high walls, you can let them run off-leash.

Labradoodle

This mixed breed (half Poodle and half Retriever) is one of the most understanding dogs in the world. There are a number of reasons which make this dog an excellent choice for dog lovers. Firstly, they are easy to train and can stay home alone for long spells without suffering separation anxiety. It’s one of the big dogs that can be left alone.

Secondly, they have a hypoallergenic coat and offer a perfect combination of Labrador’s loyalty and Poodle’s intelligence. Similarly, it is also an amazing therapy dog. All in all, it is a great companion for working families.

Lhasa Apso

Originally bred as royal watchdogs, Lhasa Apso is an engaging pet for all kinds of people. Although it is a small breed, these dogs have a strong and dominant character. These funny creatures have absolutely no idea about their tiny size and like to do what they want. This resolutely independent nature enables them to keep themselves occupied for long periods of time, which makes them one of the small dogs that can be left alone.

Stubbornness can be an issue with these dogs because they always keep their purposes at the first priority. Hence, you will need a lot of tolerance and patience with this breed.

Maltese

This cute, little dog is one of the most suitable breeds that can stay home alone. The thing which makes it possible is the mature attitude of this dog. He is quite willing to spend most of its day sleeping. As a reward, he expects your company in the evening and will require regular grooming. The long hair of these dogs should be combed on a daily basis to avoid mats. Alternatively, you can visit a professional groomer for a short haircut and save yourself from this hassle.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer is one of the most favorite dog breeds of the United States. These low-shedding dogs are easy to train and can stay home alone for long hours. However, they do need some activities to keep their intelligent minds busy.

For instance, you can give a Miniature Schnauzer the role of a guard dog and it will stay alone happily. Sometimes, they can get a little noisy as guard dogs but they will adapt quickly. Similarly, offering toys and chew things is another way of keeping them engaged.

Shar Pei

This unusual-looking breed hails from China and is often categorized as aloof. This makes these independent dogs an ideal alternative for families that have a busy schedule. Considering the fact that Shar Peis were developed as hunting and fighting dogs, they are extremely reserved.

They don’t mind staying home alone but do require proper training and socializing in the early days to avoid negative behavior. Once you have invested your time in their puppyhood, these dogs will become an ideal companion for your family.

Shiba Inu

Originally bred in Japan, Shiba Inu is one of the most famous Asian dogs. Just like many other independent dogs, they can be a little stubborn and need proper training. Having said that, their self-determining nature makes them a suitable choice for working parents. All you need to do is to plant a substitute idea in the mind of your pet and you are good to go.

Shiba Inus are pretty intelligent but they might not respond to standard training techniques. Consequently, you will need to devise some interesting approaches to train this breed.