While beagles can certainly be left alone for short periods of time, it is not advisable to leave them alone for extended periods. Beagles are social animals and do best in the company of humans or other animals. They may become anxious if left alone for too long, leading to destructive behaviour like chewing, barking, and digging as a way to cope with their boredom. To prevent this from happening, it is important to provide your beagle with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation while you are away. Taking him on walks or playing fetch can help keep them entertained and give him an outlet for their energy. Additionally, providing puzzle toys filled with treats or kibble is a great way to occupy them when he’s home alone. With lots of exercise and plenty of entertainment options, your Beagle will be content even when you’re not around!
How Long Can Beagles Stay Home Alone?
Beagles should not be left alone for any longer than 4-5 hours a day. If a beagle is left alone for long periods repeatedly they may develop separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs is when a dog experiences distress and behavioural issues when separated from its owner.
What are symptoms of separation anxiety?
Some symptoms of separation anxiety includes destructive behaviour, pacing and trying to escape.
Destructive behaviour is when your dog starts chewing on objects, digging and destroying items. These actions can result in harm to themselves.
Pacing is another symptom. Some dogs when they are experiencing separation anxiety will pace around a room, in a certain pattern. You likely won’t see this behaviour when you are with them.
A dog experiencing separation anxiety may try to escape the area that they are confined to. Your pet might try to chew or dig through a door to get out.
How can separation anxiety be helped?
Separation anxiety can be helped in a few different ways:
1. Establish Routines: Establishing a consistent routine can help your pet feel more secure and can reduce their anxiety. This includes feeding, walking, playing, and other activities at the same times each day.
2. Provide Mental Stimulation: Providing mental stimulation through activities like puzzle toys or training games can help to keep your pet’s mind occupied when you’re away. Some of the best toys for your beagle can be found here.
3. Exercise Regularly: Taking your pet for regular walks or engaging in other physical activities can help to reduce their stress and release endorphins in the brain that make them feel calmer and happier.
4. Separation Practice: Gradually increasing the amount of time that you spend away from your pet can help them become used to being alone without feeling anxious. Start by leaving them alone for a few minutes at a time, then gradually increase the length of the separation until they are comfortable with longer periods apart.
5. Companion Animals: If possible, consider getting another animal as a companion for your pet while you are away. Having another animal around may provide comfort and companionship which can help to reduce their anxiety when left alone.
Can I leave my beagle puppy alone?
A beagle puppy, around 6 months old, should not be left alone for any longer than 2 hours. As your puppy gets older you can gradually increase this amount of time. With the right training this gradual increase can be very smooth. When leaving your beagle alone it is recommended to have crate trained them or leave them in a puppy proofed room. A puppy proofed room is one that is safe for them to be left in and one that you don’t mind being potentially damaged.
Where should I leave my beagle, when left alone?
When leaving your beagle alone for long periods of time it is important to consider the environment that you are leaving them in. Depending on how well behaved your dog is it should help you to decide where they should be left. A few of the most popular options are in a crate, playpen, enclosed room, garage and outside.
Crate
A crate is a great option for short periods of time. Crates when used properly can become a place of comfort and security for your beagle.
Playpen
A playpen is another good option. A playpen gives your beagle far more room and is more suitable for longer periods of time. A playpen can be made a better space for your beagle by connecting it to their crate.
Enclosed room
An enclosed room is more suitable for longer periods of time, just like a playpen. You will need this enclosed room to be safe for them to be left in. Depending on your trust for your beagle you can decide what room to leave them in and what with.
Garage
A garage is another good option. However, it is important to make sure the area is safe for your dog. There should not be anything that can harm them.
Outside
Outside, in the garden or elsewhere, can be a great option. But it is important to properly prepare the space for them. The outside space must be suitable for both warm and cold weather. You should also make sure that this space is safe for them to be in. Beagles are well known for escaping. If you are going to leave your beagle outside check they can’t find a way out.