Last Updated on August 27, 2024 by Fumipets
Chaos Greets Woman After German Shepherd Puppy Left Home Alone for 5 Hours
Puppies are known for their playful nature, but sometimes, that playful energy can turn into complete chaos. Dora, a dog owner from the UK, recently experienced this firsthand when she left her 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy, Rolo, home alone for five hours. What she returned to was nothing short of a disaster zone.
Rolo’s Introduction to the Family
Dora and her partner had been considering getting a dog for about a year before they finally took the plunge. They stumbled upon Rolo’s advert online, and after viewing him and his siblings, they couldn’t resist bringing him home. Since then, Rolo has become an integral part of their lives, with his curious and energetic personality keeping them on their toes.
A Day Like Any Other
Dora’s day began like any other. She took Rolo on a 20-minute walk in the morning, letting him burn off some energy with a run around the nearby field. Afterward, she left him in the kitchen with his toys and some extra food before heading off to work. Little did she know that this routine day would end in chaos.
The Damage Unleashed
While at work, Dora’s father dropped by her house around 2 p.m. to check on Rolo. What he found was far from the calm, resting puppy they had hoped for. Instead, the kitchen was in shambles. The lino flooring was torn up, wood and concrete covering the pipes were chewed, and Rolo had shredded his puppy pad. He even managed to jump up and chew the washing sponge. Despite all this destruction, Rolo seemed completely unfazed, happily munching on his dinner in the corner when Dora returned home.
Puppy Antics: A Common Challenge
Raising a puppy is not for the faint-hearted. According to a survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of pet insurance company Bought by Many, 30% of dog owners found the first two years of dog ownership to be the hardest. In fact, 17% of those surveyed said it was more challenging than raising a baby. While Dora may not make such bold claims, it’s clear that Rolo’s antics have added a level of chaos to her life that she hadn’t fully anticipated.
Preventing Future Chaos
Despite the destruction, Dora handled the situation with grace. She quickly replaced the damaged flooring and implemented new strategies to prevent a repeat performance. Now, when she leaves Rolo alone, he stays in the bathroom with plenty of toys, a few of her T-shirts, and calming music playing in the background. So far, this plan has been working well, with no new incidents to report.
Lessons Learned from the Chaos
Though the situation was undoubtedly stressful at the time, Dora has come to see it as a memorable part of Rolo’s puppyhood. Sharing the video of the destruction on TikTok not only allowed her to laugh at the situation but also provided her with valuable advice from fellow dog owners. In the future, she plans to look back on this incident as a funny memory of Rolo’s early days.
Signs Your Puppy Might Be Bored
- Destructive Behavior: Chewing, scratching, and digging can indicate that your puppy has pent-up energy.
- Excessive Barking: A bored puppy might bark excessively, often without any apparent reason.
- Restlessness: If your puppy is constantly moving around or can’t seem to settle down, they might need more mental and physical stimulation.
- Attention-Seeking: Puppies may start to follow you around, paw at you, or nudge you if they are bored and want attention.
How to Keep Your Puppy Entertained When You’re Away
- Interactive Toys: Toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving can keep your puppy occupied for hours.
- Exercise Before Leaving: A tired puppy is less likely to get into trouble. Make sure to take your puppy for a walk or play a game of fetch before you leave.
- Create a Safe Space: Designate a puppy-proofed area with their bed, toys, and water. This can help prevent them from getting into areas they shouldn’t.
- Calming Sounds: Leaving the radio or TV on can provide background noise that may comfort your puppy while you’re away.
- Hire a Dog Walker: If you’re going to be gone for a long time, consider hiring someone to take your puppy for a walk to break up the day.
Final Thoughts
Owning a puppy is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its challenges. From chewed-up floors to shredded toys, puppies like Rolo keep their owners on their toes. However, with the right preparation and mindset, these moments of chaos can become cherished memories. Dora’s experience serves as a reminder that, while raising a puppy can be tough, it’s all part of the journey of welcoming a new furry family member into your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. What should I do if my puppy is destructive when left alone?
It’s essential to provide your puppy with plenty of mental and physical stimulation before leaving them alone. Interactive toys, exercise, and creating a safe, confined space can help reduce destructive behavior. If the problem persists, consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer.
2. How can I prevent my puppy from getting bored?
To prevent boredom, ensure your puppy has access to a variety of toys, gets regular exercise, and has some form of mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys. Rotating toys can also keep them interested.
3. Is it normal for puppies to destroy things?
Yes, puppies are naturally curious and energetic, which can lead to destructive behavior. However, this can be managed with proper training, exercise, and providing appropriate chew toys.
4. How long can I leave my puppy alone?
Puppies shouldn’t be left alone for long periods. As a general rule, a puppy can be left alone for one hour per month of age, up to a maximum of four hours at a time. Always ensure they have access to water, toys, and a safe space.
5. Can crate training help with destructive behavior?
Yes, crate training can be an effective way to prevent destructive behavior. It provides your puppy with a safe and secure space while also limiting their access to areas where they might cause damage.
References: Newsweek
