Teaching your puppy to be alone
Because in an apartment, quiet confidence matters. Life with a new puppy in the city means teaching them to be comfortable on their own.
Because in an apartment, quiet confidence matters.
Life with a new puppy in the city means teaching them to be comfortable on their own. Not just for your sanity (though that matters too), but because a dog who can settle calmly when you're gone is a happier, less anxious companion.
In an apartment, this skill becomes even more important. Neighbours are close. Sounds carry. A puppy who panics when left alone can quickly become everyone's problem.
Start with the crate
A crate isn't punishment — it's your puppy's own quiet space. Think of it as their bedroom. Start by feeding meals in the crate with the door open. Let them explore it freely.
Once they're comfortable eating inside, begin closing the door for short periods while you're home. Five minutes. Ten minutes. Gradually longer.
The goal isn't to trap them. It's to teach them that being in their space is safe and calm, even when they can't follow you around.
Practice leaving
Before you leave for real, practice fake departures. Put on your coat. Pick up your keys. Walk to the door. Then sit back down.
Do this randomly throughout the day. It teaches your puppy that your "leaving" routine doesn't always mean you're actually going anywhere.
When you do start leaving for real, keep it brief at first. Five minutes to check the mail. Fifteen minutes for a coffee run. Build up slowly.
Make it boring
Don't make a big deal of leaving or coming home. No dramatic goodbyes or excited hellos. Keep it calm and matter-of-fact.
Leave a special toy or chew that only comes out when you're gone. Something that keeps them occupied and creates a positive association with alone time.
Some puppies do well with soft background music or a white noise machine to muffle outside sounds that might cause anxiety.
Know the signs
Whining and mild restlessness are normal at first. But persistent barking, destructive behaviour, or attempts to escape the crate signal that you're moving too fast.
Take a step back. Shorter departures. More crate practice. Some puppies need weeks to build confidence, not days.
Ask for support. Some behaviours need expert help. Your vet or a qualified trainer can offer advice specific to your dog and your space.
Want help finding the right crate, calm toys or enrichment games? Ask Sniffrey. I'm happy to fetch a few ideas.