How Long Can I Safely Leave My Labradoodle Home Alone?
One of the most common questions Labradoodle owners ask is, “How long can I leave my dog home alone without feeling guilty?” It’s a fair concern. Labradoodles are affectionate, social, and smart—which means they don’t love being left out of the action. Still, life happens, and there are times when you have to leave them behind.
Finding that sweet spot between giving your Labradoodle independence and avoiding separation anxiety is all about balance. So let’s look at how long is too long, and how to make solo time safe and stress-free.
It Starts With Age and Maturity
A young puppy is a very different story from a full-grown dog. When your Labradoodle is still under 6 months old, their bladder just can’t hold it for long. At that stage, 2 to 3 hours is about the max before nature calls. And beyond potty needs, they’re still learning how to be alone without getting anxious or destructive.
Once your Labradoodle hits the 6-month to 1-year range, you can start stretching solo time to around 4 to 6 hours. By the time they’re adults—around 1 to 2 years old—most can comfortably be left alone for 6 to 8 hours a day. But just because they can doesn’t always mean they should.
Temperament Plays a Role
Not all Labradoodles handle alone time the same way. Some are independent by nature and nap the day away until you return. Others get bored or anxious within minutes. If your dog tends to shadow you from room to room or whines when you leave, they might need more preparation for longer alone stretches.
Pay attention to behavior. If you come home to chewed furniture, shredded pillows, or nonstop barking reports from the neighbors, it’s time to shorten the window or add more enrichment.
What to Do Before You Leave
A tired dog is a happy dog. If you know you’ll be gone for a while, take your Labradoodle for a brisk walk or a game of fetch first. Burning off that energy before you go helps them settle down faster and nap longer.
Leave them with interactive toys—think treat puzzles, durable chew toys, or even frozen peanut butter in a Kong. The goal is to keep their brain occupied while you’re away.
Also, make sure they have access to fresh water and a cozy, safe place to rest. Whether it’s a crate, a gated room, or a dog bed in a sunny spot, the environment should feel calm and secure.
When Alone Time Turns Into Anxiety
Some Labradoodles do struggle with being alone, even after training. Signs of separation anxiety include excessive barking, accidents despite being house-trained, destroyed belongings, or pacing around the house. If this sounds like your pup, don’t ignore it.
Start by easing into alone time. Try short absences of 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase. Leaving the TV or some soft music on can help soothe nerves. Some owners even leave behind worn clothing that smells like them to provide comfort.
If anxiety gets worse, speak with a professional trainer or behaviorist. It’s not about spoiling the dog—it’s about helping them build confidence and feel safe without you there.
Hiring Help or Finding Solutions for Long Days
If your job keeps you out of the house for long hours, consider a midday dog walker or pet sitter. Some owners use doggy daycare a few times a week, which can be great for socialization and stimulation. Even asking a neighbor or friend to stop by for a short walk can make a difference.
Technology can also lend a hand. Pet cameras let you check in, talk to your dog, and even dispense treats remotely. It’s not a substitute for real company, but it can help you stay connected.
What About Leaving Overnight?
Leaving your Labradoodle home alone overnight is not recommended without planning. Dogs need bathroom breaks, meals, and some social time. If you must be away overnight, make arrangements with someone you trust to check in or stay over. Dogs can feel lonely and stressed if left alone for that long with no interaction.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long your Labradoodle can be left alone. It depends on their age, personality, and how you’ve trained them. But with the right prep and a little creativity, you can keep your Doodle comfortable and content when you're not around.
At All About The Doodles, we believe raising a happy Labradoodle means supporting them through every part of daily life—including the alone moments. Whether you need tips on enrichment, crate training, or easing separation anxiety, we’re here with real-world advice for real Doodle families.