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Leaving a dog home alone all day can feel uncomfortable, even when everything else is going well. The routine works. Their needs are met. And still, you feel that nagging guilt as you’re heading out the door.
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Some dogs notice your absence immediately. Others barely register it. They chill out, move once or twice, and treat the day like a long pause until something interesting happens again.
This guide looks at dogs that are ok being left alone — not because they don’t care about you, but because time on their own doesn’t unsettle them. We’ll walk through what that looks like in real life, how long dogs typically handle being alone, and which breeds tend to cope better when the house goes quiet.
Why Are Some Dogs More Independent Than Others?
Some dogs handle being alone well because they’re built for it. Not coldly or distantly — just in a way that makes their downtime feel manageable instead of stressful.
A big part of that comes down to breed history.
- Dogs developed to work independently, guard property, or make decisions without constant human input tend to be comfortable when left to their own devices. Long stretches without interaction don’t register as a problem.
- Other breeds were developed almost entirely for companionship. Their role was to stay close, respond to people, and remain emotionally tuned in. For those dogs, separation lands harder. A still house isn’t neutral — it’s noticeable.
Emotional regulation matters, too. Independent dogs usually settle more easily when stimulation drops. They don’t stay on alert waiting for the next interaction. When activity slows, their nervous system follows.
Energy level plays a role, but not always in the way people expect. Lower-energy dogs often cope better because they don’t need frequent outlets to stay balanced. High-energy dogs can be trained to tolerate time alone, but there’s a limit to how much training can override temperament.
That’s why two dogs raised the same way can react very differently when left alone. One paces. The other sighs, circles the bed once, and seems genuinely pleased that nothing else is required.
How Long Can You Leave A Dog Alone?
There isn’t one number that works for every dog. How long a dog can stay alone depends less on the clock and more on who that dog is when nothing is happening.
Age matters first.
Puppies need frequent potty breaks, structure, and reassurance. Most can’t manage more than a few hours without becoming uncomfortable or overstimulated. Senior dogs may sleep more, but their health needs may their window.
Adult dogs fall into the broadest range. The Animal Humane Society notes that many adult dogs can handle a typical workday alone when their physical and emotional needs are met before and after — a reassurance that often gets lost in blanket “never leave your dog” advice.
That doesn’t mean they’re awake the whole time. Most move through the day in long stretches of rest, with brief check-ins on their surroundings. Where people get tripped up is assuming training alone decides this. Training helps, but it isn’t the whole picture.
Temperament sets the ceiling.
- Dogs who naturally settle themselves down relax faster.
- Dogs who stay alert may follow the rules and still struggle internally.
Environment plays a role, too.
- Predictable routines lower stress.
- Familiar spaces help dogs disengage.
- Before-and-after activity matters more than midday entertainment.
That’s why time limits work better as guidelines than guarantees. The goal isn’t seeing how long a dog can stay alone — it’s knowing whether they’re coping well when they do.
How To Keep Your Dog Entertained While You’re Away From Home
For dogs that cope well alone, the goal isn’t about entertainment as much as it is about giving them enough structure so nothing feels unresolved when the house empties out.
Start with what happens before you leave. A dog who’s had physical movement, mental engagement, and a predictable routine is far more likely to settle. Skipping this step often leads to restlessness that no toy can fix later.
Once you’re gone, simpler is usually better.
- Rotation toys work better than piles of options. Familiar, low-effort items encourage calm chewing rather than frantic problem-solving.
- Background noise can help some dogs disengage. A radio or TV at low volume often signals normalcy rather than stimulation.
- Defined spaces matter. Dogs who know where to rest tend to settle faster than dogs given full access to patrol the house.
If your dog consistently winds down, naps, and transitions smoothly when you return, the setup is doing its job. Entertainment isn’t about filling time; it’s about making it easier for your dog to relax.
Veterinary sources, such as VCA Hospitals, note that healthy adult dogs sleep up to 14 hours per day, especially during quiet hours, which explains why many dogs appear to “do nothing” while their owners are gone.
Wonder What Your Dog Does While You’re Gone?
If you’re curious how your dog actually spends the day, a pet monitoring camera can offer some peace of mind. We’ve reviewed the most popular options and broken down what features matter in our guide to the best dog cameras.
20 Best Dogs That Can Be Left Alone
Not every dog on this list loves being alone, but they tend to handle it without distress. These are breeds that are more likely to kick back, self-regulate, and move through long stretches of the day without needing constant interaction.
That doesn’t mean training, routine, and environment don’t matter. They do. But these breeds usually start with a temperament that makes independence easier for them to manage themselves, rather than something you’re constantly managing.
Below, we’ve grouped dogs that can stay alone by size. Each breed includes a quick snapshot of energy level, independence tolerance, and why they tend to cope better when the house is empty.
Small Dogs That Are Okay Being Left Alone
Small size doesn’t automatically mean high need. While many small dogs were bred for close companionship, some are surprisingly good at adapting once the house empties out.
The key difference is emotional intensity, not attachment. The small dogs that cope best alone tend to be lower-energy, less reactive to every sound, and more comfortable resting without constant reassurance. When their needs are met, they’re often content to nap through large chunks of the day.
Below are small breeds that are generally more comfortable spending time alone, along with what helps them cope, and what to keep an eye on.
1. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are self-possessed and a little aloof, even with the people they love most. They tend to observe before engaging and don’t feel the need to be involved in everything happening around them.
When left alone, many Lhasas handle the time by retreating into their own routines. As long as their environment feels familiar, they’re usually content to nap, reposition, and quietly keep tabs on the house — as if that were the assignment all along.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Bred to be watchful rather than needy, they’re comfortable with long stretches of low activity.
Watch out for: Strong opinions about strangers and unexpected noises.
2. Corgi
Corgis come with a lot of opinions packed into a small body. They’re alert, confident, and very aware of what’s happening, but that doesn’t mean they need constant company. When the day is predictable, many Corgis are perfectly comfortable doing their own thing for a while.
They tend to do best alone when their needs are met before you leave. After that, a Corgi often settles in with the confidence of a dog who believes they’re still technically in charge, even if they’re doing it from the couch.
- Energy level: Moderate
- Independence tolerance: Moderate to good
- Why they cope better alone: Their herding background encouraged independent decision-making, which translates to better self-settling when nothing is happening.
Watch out for: Skipped enrichment can lead to boredom barking.
3. Pug
Pugs are affectionate, easygoing, and emotionally uncomplicated. They enjoy company, but they also appreciate comfort and routine more than constant stimulation.
When left alone, many pugs transition smoothly into rest mode. After a brief check to confirm nothing exciting is happening, they’re usually happy to settle in and nap, often in the same position you’ll find them hours later.
- Energy level: Low
- Independence tolerance: Moderate
- Why they cope better alone: Their low exercise needs and relaxed temperament make extended rest feel natural.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are alert, observant, and very aware of their surroundings. They like knowing what’s going on, even if they don’t plan to get involved.
When home alone, many Mini Schnauzers monitor the situation briefly and then settle once nothing changes. They’re often fine resting for hours, as long as their needs were met earlier and no one rings the doorbell to trigger their internal security system.
- Energy level: Moderate
- Independence tolerance: Moderate
- Why they cope better alone: Their working background encourages independence and self-direction rather than constant reassurance.
Watch out for: Noise sensitivity can lead to alert barking in busy neighborhoods.
5. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are social and expressive, but they’re also surprisingly fond of doing absolutely nothing. Once the excitement fades, many are perfectly happy disengaging from the day.
They cope best alone when they’re comfortable and not overstimulated beforehand. After that, a Boston often spends the afternoon rotating between naps and brief check-ins, as if supervising the house is a responsibility they’ve chosen to take very lightly.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Moderate
- Why they cope better alone: Their generally easygoing temperament makes relaxing come naturally once activity slows.
6. Maltese
Maltese dogs are deeply people-oriented, but they’re also more emotionally steady than they’re often given credit for. They like closeness, not chaos, and tend to prefer calm consistency over constant interaction.
When left alone, they usually cope best if their routine stays predictable. Once they’ve confirmed that nothing interesting is happening, many Maltese dogs adapt and wait it out — patiently, but with the quiet expectation that you’ll be back on time.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Moderate
- Why they cope better alone: Their small size and lower exercise needs make long rest periods feel normal rather than frustrating.
Medium-Sized Dogs That Are Okay Being Left Alone
Medium-sized dogs often sit in a sweet spot when it comes to independence. They’re big enough to feel secure in their environment, but not so high-energy that long stretches of downtime automatically turn into a problem.
The breeds that cope best in this group tend to share a few traits: moderate energy, emotional steadiness, and a low need for constant feedback. When their physical and mental needs are met, they’re usually content to settle in and let the day pass without much commentary.
7. Greyhound
Greyhounds have a reputation for speed, but their real talent is doing nothing exceptionally well. Calm, gentle, and surprisingly low-key, they tend to move through the day without much emotional noise.
When left alone, many Greyhounds settle quickly and stay settled. Once these low-maintenance dogs have confirmed no walk or meal is happening, they usually stretch out and treat the rest of the day like scheduled recovery time.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their natural rhythm favors short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest.
8. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are laid-back, stubborn, and largely unbothered by the passage of time. They enjoy company, but they’re not emotionally urgent about it.
When home alone, many Bassets settle into a slow, predictable routine. As long as their needs are met beforehand, they’re usually content to nap and wait things out — preferably somewhere soft and close to the floor.
- Energy level: Low
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their low drive and relaxed temperament make downtime feel natural rather than frustrating.
Watch out for: Boredom can lead to vocalizing if exercise and enrichment are skipped.
9. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are reserved, independent, and selective with their affection. They tend to bond deeply with their people, but they don’t need constant interaction to feel secure.
When left alone, many Chows handle the time calmly and without distress. They’re comfortable occupying their space and often prefer minimal interruption — as if solitude is a feature, not a problem.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: High
- Why they cope better alone: Their naturally aloof temperament makes self-settling come easily.
Watch out for: Early socialization and clear routines matter to prevent anxiety or guarding behaviors.
10. Shar Pei
Shar Peis are calm, serious, and famously unimpressed by unnecessary activity. They bond closely with their people but don’t require constant interaction to feel secure.
When left alone, many Shar Peis handle the time quietly and without much fuss. As long as their routine is predictable, they’re usually content to rest and mind their own business, which suits them just fine.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their reserved temperament makes downtime feel normal rather than stressful.
Watch out for: They don’t love sudden changes or unfamiliar visitors in their space.
11. Basenji
Basenjis are independent thinkers with a stubborn streak. They’re curious and intelligent, but they’re also perfectly capable of entertaining themselves without emotional distress.
When home alone, many Basenjis treat the day as a solo project. Once they’ve investigated their surroundings, they tend to settle in, preferably somewhere comfortable, and wait things out on their own terms.
- Energy level: Moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Bred to hunt independently, Basenjis are used to operating without constant guidance.
12. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are confident, self-contained, and emotionally selective. They enjoy companionship, but they’re not dependent on it to stay regulated.
When left alone, many Shibas handle the time with quiet composure. As long as their environment feels familiar, they tend to relax and wait patiently, often acting as though this arrangement was their idea.
- Energy level: Moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their naturally independent temperament makes self-settling easier.
13. Whippet
Whippets are gentle, sensitive, and surprisingly low-key indoors. They enjoy closeness, but they’re not emotionally demanding once the environment settles.
When left alone, many Whippets handle the time by doing what they do best — resting deeply and efficiently. After a quick check that nothing exciting is happening, they’re usually content to curl up and let the day pass quietly.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Like Greyhounds, Whippets are built for short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest.
Watch out for: They’re sensitive dogs and do best with a calm, predictable routine.
14. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are easygoing, steady, and rarely in a hurry. They enjoy companionship, but they don’t need constant interaction to feel comfortable.
When home alone, many bulldogs transition quickly into rest mode. As long as their needs are met beforehand, they’re usually happy to nap through the day — often in the same spot, barely noticing the hours go by.
- Energy level: Low
- Independence tolerance: Moderate
- Why they cope better alone: Their low exercise needs and relaxed temperament make downtime feel natural.
Large-Sized Dogs That Are Okay Being Left Alone
Large dogs are often assumed to need more attention simply because they take up more space. In reality, many large breeds are emotionally steady, lower-energy indoors, and less reactive to long stretches of downtime.
The large dogs that cope best alone tend to be calm by default. When their needs are met, they don’t spend the day monitoring the house or waiting for something to happen. They settle in, stay put, and let the hours pass without much concern, which makes size far less important than temperament.
15. Akita
Akitas are quietly confident and highly self-contained. They bond deeply with their people, but they don’t need constant interaction to feel secure.
When left alone, many Akitas handle the time with calm composure. They’re comfortable occupying their space and often treat solitude as a regular part of the day — not something to react to.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: High
- Why they cope better alone: Their naturally independent temperament makes self-settling come easily.
16. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are steady, observant, and emotionally grounded. They’re attached to their people, but they’re not inclined to hover or demand attention.
When home alone, many Bullmastiffs settle in quickly and stay there. Once they’ve confirmed the house is calm, they’re usually content to nap and wait as if guarding the couch counts as a full shift.
- Energy level: Low
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their calm demeanor and low activity needs make long rest periods easy to manage.
Watch out for: Young Bullmastiffs may need time to grow into this steadiness.
17. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs are independent thinkers with a strong sense of responsibility. Bred to work without constant direction, they’re comfortable making decisions on their own.
When left alone, many Great Pyrenees settle into a watchful but relaxed routine. They’re used to long stretches of quiet vigilance and don’t rely on constant interaction to stay balanced.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: High
- Why they cope better alone: Their livestock-guardian background encourages calm independence and patience.
Watch out for: Alert barking can increase if they perceive unusual sounds.
18. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle, steady, and emotionally even. They’re deeply attached to their people, but they don’t express that attachment through constant movement or attention-seeking.
When left alone, many Newfoundlands settle in without much concern. Once they’re comfortable, they tend to nap heavily and stay put — as if the size of the dog somehow justifies taking up the entire afternoon.
- Energy level: Low
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their calm temperament and low reactivity make extended downtime easy to tolerate.
19. Great Dane
Great Danes are affectionate but surprisingly low-key indoors. Despite their size, they’re often content with very little activity once their needs are met.
When left alone, many Great Danes transition quickly into rest mode. After a brief check that nothing exciting is happening, they’re usually happy to stretch out and remain exactly where they are until you return.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: Good
- Why they cope better alone: Their calm indoor demeanor makes long rest periods feel natural.
20. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are serious, independent, and deeply self-reliant. They bond with their people, but they don’t look to them for constant reassurance or direction.
When left alone, many Tibetan Mastiffs treat the time as normal and uneventful. Bred to guard independently for long stretches, they’re comfortable settling into their space and staying there, often with the quiet confidence of a dog who assumes they’re still on duty.
- Energy level: Low to moderate
- Independence tolerance: High
- Why they cope better alone: Their guardian background fosters patience, self-direction, and sustained calm vigilance.
Watch out for: They do best with experienced owners and very consistent routines.
Tips On How To Leave Your Dog Home Alone
Even dogs that cope well alone still benefit from the proper setup. Small changes before and after you leave often matter more than anything that happens while you’re gone.
Start with predictability. Dogs that know what comes next adapt faster than dogs left guessing. Consistent departure cues, familiar resting spots, and a reliable return routine all help reduce unnecessary stress.
Pay attention to before-you-leave needs.
- Physical movement that matches the dog’s energy level
- Mental engagement without overstimulation
- A calm transition, not a rushed exit
Once you’re gone, resist the urge to over-manage. Too many toys, constant novelty, or frequent camera check-ins can keep some dogs mentally “on.” For dogs that handle independence well, less stimulation often leads to better rest.
Finally, watch how your dog behaves when you return. A dog who greets you normally and settles quickly afterward is usually coping just fine.
Best Dogs That Can Be Left Alone — Quick Picks
Not every independent dog fits every lifestyle. If you’re scanning for a match, these groupings highlight where certain breeds tend to do especially well.
Best Low-Energy Dogs
These breeds are more likely to nap through the day than pace it.
- Basset Hound – Professional lounger with opinions about moving
- English Bulldog – Low stamina, high commitment to the couch
- Great Dane – Giant body, tiny daily agenda
- Newfoundland – Sweet, sleepy, and emotionally unbothered
- Pug – Will nap first, nap second, and nap again
Best For Apartments
These apartment-approved pups are generally quieter, lower-energy, and less reactive in a limited space.
- Greyhound – Built like an athlete, lives like a retiree
- Whippet – Quiet, compact, and insanely into blankets
- Boston Terrier – Social, adaptable, and done early
- Maltese – Small, calm, and surprisingly unfazed
- Lhasa Apso – Low drama, high self-containment
Best For Inexperienced Dog Owners
More forgiving temperaments and fewer behavioral curveballs make these dogs easier to train.
- Boston Terrier – Friendly, flexible, and easy to live with
- Pug – Affectionate, predictable, and not overcomplicated
- Maltese – Manageable energy with a soft landing
- Greyhound – Calm, polite, and shockingly easy indoors
- Great Dane – Gentle giant with simple needs
Better For Experienced Owners
Independent thinkers who cope well alone but value structure and need a more experienced trainer.
- Akita – Loyal, serious, and not interested in micromanagement
- Chow Chow – Reserved, selective, and confidently aloof
- Shar Pei – Calm, stubborn, and very sure of themselves
- Tibetan Mastiff – Independent to the core, zero interest in supervision
- Great Pyrenees – Patient, watchful, and quietly in charge
Worst Choices If Left Alone Frequently
These pups are highly social or high-energy dogs wired for interaction.
- Border Collie – Needs a job, not a quiet house
- Australian Shepherd – Thrives on activity and constant engagement
- German Shepherd – Loyal, alert, and people-focused
- Labrador Retriever – Social, energetic, and happiest with company
- Vizsla – Velcro dog with feelings about separation
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re still weighing whether your dog can handle time alone, you’re not overthinking it. These are some of the most common questions owners ask when trying to make sense of independence, routine, and what’s actually normal. Don’t see your question here? Ask us in the comments.
Is It Cruel To Leave A Dog Alone All Day?
Not necessarily. For many adult dogs with the right temperament, being alone during the workday is manageable when their needs are met before and after you’re absent. What matters more than the number of hours is how the dog copes during that time.
Do Dogs Sleep The Whole Time You’re Gone?
Often, yes, especially dogs with lower energy levels. Many dogs move through the day in long rest cycles, waking briefly to reposition or check their surroundings before settling again.
Are Low-Energy Dogs Always Okay Being Left Alone?
Not always. Lower energy helps, but emotional steadiness matters just as much. A calm dog who struggles with separation can still have a hard time, while a moderate-energy dog with good self-regulation may cope well.
Can Training Fix Separation Issues In Independent Dogs?
Training helps, but it isn’t a cure-all. Temperament sets the ceiling. Some dogs improve with structure and gradual desensitization, while others need more support or shorter alone periods.
How Do I Know If My Dog Is Coping Well When I’m Not Home?
Look at their behavior before and after you leave. Dogs who settle quickly, aren’t destructive, and greet you normally — without panic or overexcitement — are usually managing just fine.
The Other Side Of The Spectrum: Clingy Breeds
Not all dogs are built for independence. Some breeds were designed to stay close, follow their people from room to room, and feel most secure with frequent companionship. If your dog leans that way or you’re considering a breed that does, our guide to velcrodog breeds breaks down what that behavior looks like, why it happens, and how to choose a dog that fits your daily routine.
Does your dog nap through your entire workday like it’s a personal achievement? Act mildly inconvenienced when you return? Or greet you warmly and then go right back to what they were doing?
We want to hear it. Drop your funniest, most relatable “home alone” dog moments in the comments, especially if your dog has mastered the art of pretending nothing happened while you were gone.
