Can Great Pyrenees Be Left Alone [Helpful Tips]

Are you considering adding a Great Pyrenees to your family, but anxious about leaving them alone?

Fear not! The Great Pyrenees are known for their independence and ability to thrive when left alone for moderate periods of time.

In fact, these gentle giants were historically bred to guard sheep in remote mountain regions and can handle the solitude.

But like any dog, it’s important to provide them with enough exercise, mental stimulation, and training to ensure their well-being.

Let’s explore some tips and tricks for keeping your Great Pyrenees content while you’re away.

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Can Great Pyrenees Be Left Alone

Great Pyrenees are known to be independent and are typically fine being left alone for shorter periods like 5 to 8 hours during the day if given enough exercise and mental stimulation.

However, if you’re planning on being away for an extended time, it’s best to arrange for someone to check in on your furry friend or arrange for doggy daycare.

How to train your Great Pyrenees to stay alone

Training a Great Pyrenees to stay alone at home while you are away can be done gradually.

Start by leaving the dog alone for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration.

It is recommended to exercise the dog regularly to help reduce anxiety and destructive behavior.

You can also create a safe confinement area, such as an exercise pen or crate, to help the dog feel secure while alone.

It is important to be patient and consistent with the training process to help your Great Pyrenees feel comfortable and safe while alone at home.

Tips for leaving a Great Pyrenees alone

Here are some common tips for leaving a Great Pyrenees alone:

Make sure they have plenty of water and access to the outdoors to relieve themselves.
Provide them with toys and other forms of entertainment to keep them occupied.
Consider enrolling them in doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker to give them some exercise and socialization while you’re away.
If possible, leave them in a space where they feel comfortable and secure, such as a bedroom or a crate.
Train your Great Pyrenees to feel comfortable being alone from a young age, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend alone.
Give them a treat or special toy only when you leave, to help establish a positive association with being alone.
Consider leaving a radio or TV on, as background noise can help them feel more comfortable.
Avoid making a big fuss when you leave or return, as this can increase anxiety and make them more upset.
Consider using a pet camera or other technology so you can monitor your Great Pyrenees while you’re away and ensure they are doing well.

Potential problems with leaving Great Pyrenees alone

Leaving a Great Pyrenees alone for extended periods of time can potentially lead to a number of problems.

Here are some potential issues to consider:

Separation anxiety: Great Pyrenees dogs are known to be very loyal and affectionate towards their owners. If you leave them alone for long periods of time, they may become anxious and stressed.
Boredom: Without sufficient mental and physical stimulation, Great Pyrenees dogs may become bored and start engaging in destructive behaviors.
Excessive barking: Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their tendency to bark, especially when they feel like they need to protect their territory or family. If left alone for too long, they may bark excessively.
Loneliness: Great Pyrenees dogs form strong bonds with their family and may become lonely if left alone for too long.
Lack of exercise: Great Pyrenees dogs are a large and active breed that requires plenty of exercise. If they are left alone for too long, they may not get enough exercise, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Health issues: Leaving your Great Pyrenees alone for extended periods of time may make it more difficult for you to recognize any health issues they may be experiencing.
Destructive behavior: If left alone for too long, Great Pyrenees dogs may engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing on furniture or digging in the yard or other behavioral concerns.
Aggression: If not properly socialized and trained, Great Pyrenees dogs may become aggressive towards strangers or other animals.
Escape attempts: Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their tendency to roam, and if left alone for too long, they may attempt to escape in search of company and stimulation.

It is important to not leave your dog alone for extended periods of time and provide them with plenty of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation if you must be away from them for any length of time.

Better alternatives to leaving a Great Pyrenees alone

Here are some alternatives to leaving a Great Pyrenees alone:

1. Take your Great Pyrenees to a doggy daycare

If you’re worried about leaving your Great Pyrenees alone at home you can always take your Great Pyrenees to a doggy daycare.

Great Pyrenees who require socializing and exercise might consider doggy daycare.

Your Great Pyrenees may spend the day socializing with other dogs and getting attention from the professionals at a dog daycare.

Also, they can get training and grooming, which helps keep them happy and healthy.

2. Hire a dog walker or pet sitter

You may hire a dog walker to visit your house and walk your Great Pyrenees during the day.

A stroll may provide your dog exercise, access to the outdoors, and a chance to go potty.

Also, it allows for human connection, which helps lessen stress and loneliness.

Your Great Pyrenees can spend some time at your house being played with and given care by a pet sitter.

This might provide your dog with some much-needed socializing and a break from the day’s activities.

3. Get a second dog

Your Great Pyrenees might benefit from having a companion dog to aid with loneliness and boredom.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to establish a good rapport between your Great Pyrenees and the new dog before bringing them home.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that having a second dog is a major commitment that demands more effort, focus, and finances.

4. Install a doggy door

Your Great Pyrenees will be able to walk about and explore at their leisure if you install a doggie door that gives them access to the yard or other specified areas.

By doing this, they can get some exercise and get some relief from boredom.

However, it’s crucial to make sure your yard is secure and that your Great Pyrenees can’t escape or end up in any hazardous conditions.

5. Provide them with plenty of toys and activities

Due to their intelligence, Great Pyrenees need mental stimulation if you must leave them at home alone.

Giving your Great Pyrenees a variety of toys, including chew toys and puzzle toys, helps keep them entertained and cognitively active.

Also, you may teach them new skills and give them training tasks to keep their minds active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to leave my Great Pyrenees alone at home for long hours?

Many Great Pyrenees dogs can become anxious or bored when left alone for extended periods.

It’s important to assess your dog’s individual needs and make sure they have enough stimulation and exercise before leaving them alone.

How long can I leave my Great Pyrenees alone?

Great Pyrenees can generally be left alone for up to 6–8 hours if they have access to water and a comfortable place to sleep.

However, it’s important to make sure they have plenty of exercise and socialization time when you’re home.

What can I do to keep my Great Pyrenees entertained when I’m not home?

Providing your Great Pyrenees with toys, puzzles, and puzzle feeders can help keep them entertained and mentally stimulated when you’re not home.

You can also consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to provide additional exercise and attention during the day.

Will my Great Pyrenees bark excessively when left alone?

Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their loud bark and can sometimes bark excessively when left alone.

It’s important to train your dog not to bark excessively and to provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation, as excessive barking can be a sign of boredom.

Should I crate train my Great Pyrenees when leaving them alone?

Crate training can be an effective way to help your Great Pyrenees feel safe and secure when left alone.

However, it’s important to introduce crate training gradually and make sure your dog is comfortable in their crate before leaving them alone for extended periods.

What are some signs that my Great Pyrenees is not doing well when left alone?

Signs that your Great Pyrenees is not doing well when left alone can include destructive behavior, excessive barking or whining, loss of appetite, and changes in behavior or temperament.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to assess and adjust your dog’s routine to make sure they are comfortable and happy

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Great Pyrenees dogs are known for their independence and ability to guard their homes, they may not be the best choice for those who work long hours or travel frequently.

However, with proper training and socialization, they can learn to be comfortable when left alone for short periods of time.

Remember to always prioritize your dog’s well-being and seek professional help if needed.