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How long can your dog with separation anxiety be left alone?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | neutered | 3 years and 8 months old | 61 lbs

He has separation anxiety but not the kind from one person. So we got him a puppy. We waited till she was old enough and solid on thinking alone time was good so she wouldn’t learn the behavior. He started out at 5 min freak out till 2 hours within a month. What I do stay at say 40 mins for a week till solid just laying there or chewing bones then move on. So anyways what should I build up to? Like hourwise? Would he ever get to 8 hours? Or what would be a max time for someone who doesn’t work

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, gradually work up to the length of time you are usually gone for a normal day. He may or may not ever make it though. If he has extreme separation anxiety I would discuss medications (anti-anxiety) with your vet and private training. If he likes other dogs consider doggie daycare twice a week so he can expend energy. Max is a high energy breed. On your days off and free time be sure to exercise him well. If he plateaus at a certain length of time I would seek help and meds form your Vet. I hope this help!

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