How long can you leave a dog alone in RSPCA?
Palma Conroy
2025-06-29 12:15:35
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The length of time a dog can be left alone depends on the individual dog but we advise that they are left for no longer than four hours so they have opportunities to exercise, go to the toilet, and spend time with people.
The Blue Cross agrees, suggesting that ‘your dog should never be left alone for more than four hours at a time’, though it very much depends on the dog, their age, breed and how they cope with being on their own in the house.
Some may struggle being away from their owners for this long and others will be unphased.
However, online pet service company Rover says dogs can be left longer if they’re able to hold their bladder, suggesting they could be left for ‘up to eight hours’.
If you’re dog’s used to being left alone and does not suffer from any form of separation anxiety you should be able to leave them for up to 8 hours (max) but as we mentioned earlier, any dog forced to hold their urine for too long is at risk for urinary tract infection, stones, or crystals, plus holding urine for too long is uncomfortable, and can lead to accidents in the house.
Destinee Hane
2025-06-23 18:16:32
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The Animal Welfare Act 2006 already makes it an offence if for a person to cause unnecessary suffering to an animal. This would include suffering caused by leaving a dog alone for an extended period. The Government's code of practice for the welfare of dogs specifically states that owners should make sure that their dog is never alone long enough for it to become distressed. Make it illegal to leave any dog alone for more than 12 hours. People who leave their dogs either locked in a house or tied up outside for more than 12 hours should be fine and have the dog taken away. If you're concerned about a specific incident, you may wish to report it directly to the RSPCA.
Edison Volkman
2025-06-11 23:45:29
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Dogs owners should not leave their dogs alone for more than four hours at a time, according to the RSPCA. The organisation has now issued advice on the matter - saying that dogs should not be left home alone for more than four hours at a time. A further 39% admitted to leaving their dogs home alone for seven hours or more each day – a move which can contribute to a "sense of sadness or loneliness" in our four-legged friends. They found that 20% of owners thought it was fine to leave their pet unattended for more than a day.
Lilian Willms
2025-06-04 10:28:35
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Never leave your pet on their own without a responsible person to care for them. Pets can get stressed when you're away, as it means a change to their normal routine. Having someone look after them in your home is usually best, as it allows you to keep things as familiar as possible for them. This is especially true if you've got a cat, rabbit or small animal, as they won't be familiar with travelling and visiting new places. For dogs, it depends on the individual dog as to whether they'd be happier to stay in their home or go to a friend or family member. You should make sure that they understand your pet's needs and any special requirements that he or she may have. If this isn't possible you could use a pet sitter or take them to a boarding establishment. Always visit the boarder before choosing one.