From the moment you brought your fur baby home you vowed to do anything to keep them safe and sound. But eventually you have to go to work and your pup will have to stay home alone. While it's normal to be nervous about this transition, there's plenty you can do to ensure your dog is safe while you're away.
Keep the Perimeter Secure
The first thing you need to do is make sure your dog can't get out of the yard while you're at work. Make sure there aren't any weak spots in the fence around your yard and that your dog can't dig under it, jump over it or fit through it. Just in case they manage to get out (dogs can be pretty resourceful), make sure they have a collar and tags on at all times, are microchipped and are documented. This way if someone finds them, they can contact you or your vet to come pick them up.
Create Safe Spaces
If your pup seem nervous or anxious about you leaving, you may want to consider crate training. Make this a safe and comfortable place for your dog to relax and feel protected (don't use it as a punishment). Put a dog bed and their favorite toy in the crate to ensure they're comfortable.
If you decide to let your dog have room to roam around your house, make sure everything is puppy proof. Put baby locks on your cabinets, trash cans and dog food so they don't eat anything harmful or get into their food. You also should put any choking hazards or breakable items up high where your dog can't reach them.
Provide Entertainment
Puppies tend to get in trouble when they get bored, which is often the cause of chewing and destruction in your home. Before you leave for the day, give your dog a toy or treat to play with for a long period of time. Kong toys full of peanut butter are a great option, or you can look for a puzzle game to exercise your dog's minds.
Check In on Them
It's hard being away from your puppies all day. You're worried if they're OK, if they miss you and if they're getting into trouble. Put your mind at ease by using your home security system to check in on them from the office. Set up home security cameras where your dogs are so you can see what they're doing at any time. This way you know if you need to rush home in the case of an emergency.
Arrange for Company
If you work long hours, arrange for them to have some company throughout the day. Use a dog-walking app to find someone to give your dogs some exercise during the day. Set up a doggy sitter to check on them or feed them dinner if you won't be home in time. If you're gone for the weekend, you can check them into doggy day care or a kennel to make sure they're well taken care of.