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10 Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone

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Published on
Thursday 22 July 2021
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
akita breed are low maintenance
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There are all kinds of families and owners that are interested in owning a dog. Some may be those that work long hours or have to leave the house regularly. If this is you, then you may want to look into dog breeds that can be left alone without the worry of anxiety or destructive behavior. This means they are comfortable by themselves, which means they won’t be unhappy when you leave. It also means your home is safe from urinating, chewing, and howling due to separation anxiety.

Below we are reviewing the top ten independent dog breeds and their pros and cons. So you can find the best match for you and your home. These dogs love time with you but love their own company as well.

1. Akita

An Akita is at the top of our list for a high level of independence. This is one of their best and worst traits. You can leave them to their own devices and they are quite comfortable. However, they may not always have an interest in engaging with other dogs or you socially. Furthermore, the Akita is a very loyal dog to their owner, but also reserved around strangers. This is due to their guard dog nature.

This is a breed that has confidence and a calm nature. Which on one hand presents a strong and magnificent dog, but on the other gives you a dog that can be difficult to train. However, this is still a gorgeous medium to large-sized dog. Just be aware that they need to be regularly groomed.

2. Chow Chow

If you are looking for a unique dog breed with courage and independence, look no further than the Chow Chow. People know for their thick coats and black-colored tongue. This is an old Chinese working breed that was used for guarding. This is one of the reasons they are so brave and comfortable by themselves. However, they can be stubborn and therefore a little difficult to train. So be sure to start doing so young if you are thinking about buying this breed. They are not a very affectionate breed as they do not fight after human attention or company. However, the loyalty they do hold for their family is still very strong.

3. Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is one of a few breeds on our list that have the potential to be very independent, or very clingy. This can be because of socialization, training when young or lack of, breeding, and personality. But they are top contenders for the most clingy breed and independent. In the case of independence they can often be quite comfortable by themselves or even in the company of strangers. This is a little breed that is known to be feisty, stubborn, but fiercely loyal and loving to their owners. You won’t need to worry about regular grooming unless you get a wired-haired Jack Russell as they may need trimming around their eyes, mouth, and paws.

jack russells are low maintenance dogs
The Jack Russell breed is known for being independent dogs that you can leave at home with ease.

4. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a breed that some argue to be a very independent breed. This is under the consequence that training is implemented young to get them used to time by themselves. Unlike many independent dog breeds, the Bullmastiff is very affectionate and loving as well. They adore their family and love cuddles. However, this breed is also likely to be vocal. Some of you are living in an apartment or attached house, you may want to consider another dog breed. However, they have low energy needs and usually target this towards being playful. Just bear in mind that this is a large breed of dog so make sure you can accompany that fact.

4. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is similar to the Jack Russell Terrier in that they can be very clingy with their owner, or quite content with their own company. Therefore many can be left alone and be happy with that. Proper training to allow them to become comfortable on their own will help this. Especially by implementing a safe space such as a crate, crate cover, and crate training. This little dog has a whole lot of personality and this can be great if you want a dog like this. However, it also means you may need to heavily socialize them to prevent any dog aggression. Also, use a lot of repetition and positive reinforcement in training to counteract that stubborn nature that many Chihuahuas have.

5. Basset Hound

The adorable Basset Hound with their droopy ears and little lumber of a walk are easy to love. This is a breed who originally bred for hunting so has some animal aggression and strong instincts. However, this breed is generally just a relaxed breed who is soft, and affectionate. They are great for apartment living due to this type of nature and also are happy by themselves on the quiet days when you have to leave. The Basset Hound is also a heavily affectionate breed. They adore humans and will form a very close relationship with their owner and family. This also brings out their loyalty as well. However, they are soft to everyone they meet and not an aggressive breed.

6. French Bulldog

A good first-time dog breed to own, the French Bulldog is an affectionate and sweet breed. It is one of the best dog breeds that can be left alone as they are happy by itself, but much happier when you are with them. They are relatively easy to train. Also, as they are a small dog, they are great for smaller places such as apartments. As a very playful breed they will need to be kept mentally stimulated. However, their exercise requirements are not too high but average. Be aware that they have average capabilities to bark and howl, so not excessive but not silent. So if you live close to your neighbors just be aware. This breed also puts on weight easily so be sure to monitor their nutrition.

boston terriers are low maintenance
Boston Terriers are known for their independence as they least likely would develop separation anxiety.

7. Shar Pei

They have a high tolerance for being left alone, but the Shar Pei is not a great dog for first-time owners. This breed is not the easiest to train and can be quite stubborn or not engaged. Furthermore, they can be easily frustrated and nippy during puppyhood. training is especially important for this breed when they are young. You do not really need to worry about drooling or shedding from this breed though. They are also very cute with their many wrinkles, which is an added bonus.

8. Boston Terrier

This is a wonderful, loving, and little breed. The Boston Terrier is as affectionate as a dog breed can be. They are extremely child and dog friendly and make friends with anyone they meet. Shedding and drooling are also problems you do not need to worry about with this little black and white dog. They also have a very short coat, so grooming is not needed often. However, be aware that they can be vocal dogs with an average tendency to bark, yip, and howl. But with their positive nature, they will most likely do so during play or out of excitement and not guarding.

9. English Foxhound

Although the English Foxhound is good by themselves, it is important to know their high energy levels. They need regular long walks, big play sessions, and longs of enrichment to keep them calm. Otherwise, they can become destructive and anxious. So although they are good alone, they aren’t great being at home up for long periods of time unless they have somewhere to put that frustration. They are also more likely to be vocal than other dogs, especially if they become frustrated. However, they are very affectionate dogs, especially towards other dogs. So if you already own a dog then a Foxhound may be a perfect addition.

10. Whippet

The Whippet is another affectionate breed that is happy alone when the time comes. Due to their calm nature, they take changes in their stride and can be relaxed whether you are at home or not. This is a small to medium-sized breed and can easily fit inside smaller houses. Be sure to exercise this dog properly to prevent them from becoming destructive. They have average energy levels but do enjoy the space to run when available. The Whippet is also a very playful breed so get lots of toys to keep them entertained.

More questions about dog breeds that can be left alone? We have all the answers you need.

How long can I leave my dog alone?

A maximum you should leave your dog alone for is eight hours. However, this is still a long period of time for your dog to wait without being able to use the toilet. It may worth considering if you can ask someone to let your dog out in the middle of the day to use the toilet. Alternatively, you can purchase and train your dog to use an indoor potty. This way they will feel more comfortable throughout the day.

Can I get a dog if I have a job?

Many owners of dogs have jobs so you can too. You just have to be sure that your dog has everything they need when you are not home. Access to food (when needed), water, the toilet during long periods of time, and lots of enrichment.

Is it cruel to leave your dog at home all day?

As long as they have everything they need, enrichment and stimulation included, it is okay. A dog can stay home for hours but needs regular walking, love, and play. As long as you can give these daily then you can leave your dog at home while working or going out sometimes.

Which dogs can be left alone?

Our list of top ten show some of the best dog breeds to leave alone without worry. However, the best dog is one who has been trained from young to be comfortable being left alone.

How long is too long for dogs to be left alone?

Dogs should not be left alone longer than eight hours. However, elderly dogs and puppies need more interaction more often so aim for a maximum of six hours.

If you want to choose a dog from some dog breeds that can be left alone, take a look at the Akita as our number one dog for independence. Although many dogs can be left alone, be sure to not leave a dog alone for too long. They need to be able to use the toilet and have affection and walks daily. Furthermore, every dog has a different personality and you need to take this into account as well.

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