There is more to taking care of a Boston Terrier than just feeding them and giving them a place to sleep. We learned pretty quickly that our new Boston Terriers did not like to be alone. Over time we have learned what we need to do for them and they have learned we will come back.
Boston Terriers are one of the breeds that you shouldn’t leave alone all day. They’re prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior when left home alone. It’s best if you don’t leave your Boston Terrier alone for more than eight hours a day at most.
If you are thinking about adding a Boston Terrier to your home but are away for long periods of time you should keep reading. If you already have a Boston and are wondering about some things you find when you come home, you should also read on.
Why You Shouldn’t Leave Boston Terriers Alone for Too Long
Boston Terriers are very sweet and affectionate dogs, but they can also be a bit of a handful. If you have one, it’s important to know that they need attention and company. Below are reasons why it is best to avoid leaving your Boston terrier alone for long periods of time:
Boston Terriers Are Sociable Dogs
Boston terriers are very active dogs and need lots of attention and exercise. If you have to leave your Boston Terrier alone for more than 3 hours at a time, they will need some stimulation while you’re gone. They might need a playmate or some entertaining activity in their crate while waiting for you to get home.
Boston Terriers Were Bred for Companionship
This breed is known to be extremely affectionate, and they thrive on human interaction. If you are considering leaving your Boston Terrier alone for long stretches of time, you should consider other options like a dog sitter or coming home for your lunch break.
Some owners make the mistake of thinking that dogs are like cats, which can be left alone for hours with no problems. However, this is not true for Boston Terriers.
Boston Terriers Are Very Prone to Separation Anxiety
If you’re wondering, “Can Boston Terriers be left alone for a short period of time?” They can, but keep in mind that they are very prone to separation anxiety. This means that they will become very depressed if they are left alone for too long, and it can even lead to health problems such as constant barking and chewing.
If your Boston Terrier is exhibiting signs of separation anxiety, consider taking him for a good long walk to burn some of that nervous energy. Also, realize that dogs are a lot like children, they work well with routines. Your Boston Terrier will adapt to your schedule as long as it is on a routine.
Boston Terriers Will Develop Destructive or Escape Behaviors
It is possible to leave a Boston terrier alone, but they may develop destructive or escape behaviors if left alone for too long. Boston terriers are a relatively small breed, so they will be able to get into things if you’re gone for an extended period. Check your home for small items that your dog could eat or chew on to avoid this.
Your dog can also become bored if left alone for too long. This can cause them to start digging at carpets or furniture, which can lead to permanent damage if it happens often enough. To combat this problem, try giving your dog interactive toys that will keep him busy when you’re gone, such as tennis balls that he can chase around the house.
Best Ways to Keep Your Boston Terrier’s Stress Low When You’re Away From Home
Let’s face it your Boston Terrier will need to be alone sometimes. Even if you are a stay-at-home mom or working remotely it is going to happen. There will be times when you will have no choice but to leave your dog’s home alone. There are ways to reduce your dog’s stress in this situation. Here are some suggestions for doing so for your dog:
Crate Training
You should crate train your Boston Terrier if you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time. Crate training is a great option for owners who work long hours or travel frequently, and it can help your dog adjust to the idea of being apart from you.
Your dog must be taught that going into his crate is an enjoyable experience rather than a dreaded one. Getting him into his crate is going to be a lot easier if you start by putting treats in there. Afterward, close the door for a few minutes and then let him out again so he can eat the treats. Step up the time spent in his crate until it’s safe for him to stay there for an hour or more.
Make Sure They Have Multiple Safe Places
When it comes to keeping your Boston terrier happy and healthy, having a safe place for them to retreat to is essential. This can be a crate, a bed, or just a corner in the house where they know that nothing bad will happen and no one will bother them.
When you’re not home, make sure that this safe place is easy for them to get to and that nothing’s blocking their path. If there are stairs or other barriers, try removing them so that your dog has an easy path to follow if they’re feeling anxious or stressed out while you’re gone.
Feeding Schedules
Feeding schedules are one of the best ways to keep your Boston Terrier’s stress low when you’re away from home. This is because it will help them feel more secure, knowing that they have a predictable routine. If they’re not used to eating at certain times during the day, make sure that you do this with them.
When you get home, try to make time for playtime with your dog. This can help relieve some of their stress and make them happy to see you.
Exercise and Play Time
Boston Terriers are energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and play time to stay well-behaved. This can be achieved by walking your dog for at least 30 minutes each day and playing with him in your yard or in a safe park. Your dog needs to run around and stretch his legs and not just sit at home alone all day.
You might consider hiring a dog walker if you cannot provide this type of exercise for your pet. A good dog walker will give your dog the exercise he needs while also keeping him socialized with other dogs.
Use Doggie Day Care or a Pet Sitter When You Are Gone for Longer Periods of Time
Make sure your Boston terrier is getting the social interaction he or she needs. A doggie daycare or a pet sitter are the best options for this, and you should consider taking advantage of the services they offer.
Doggie daycare is a great option if you have a flexible schedule and want to keep your dog healthy and happy while you’re away from home. Keep in mind that the cost will vary depending on where you live. Consider that the more experience they have with dogs and the more flexible their hours are, the higher the price will be. In addition, pet sitters can provide care for your Boston terrier while you’re away from home.
Don’t Change Your Routine Too Much
It’s important to keep your Boston terrier’s routine as consistent as possible when you’re away from home. Changing your dog’s routine while you’re away can be difficult, so try to stick to the one that works for them.
For example, if they usually eat at the same time every day, don’t make them wait until you get back from work to eat. If you’re going on vacation, leave them with food that is similar in size and shape to their normal meal. They’ll be able to recognize it as “meals” and will be less likely to get anxious about when they’re going to eat next.
If your dog has any routines that involve getting attention or affection from you, try not to break those either while you’re gone. It’ll help them feel more comfortable with being left alone.
Consider Family Members or Friends Who Can Visit Your Dog
Make arrangements with a friend or family to come to visit your dog if you know you’ll be gone for an extended period. This can help keep your Boston Terrier’s stress level low, especially if they don’t have other dogs around to play with and keep them company.
Ask family members or friends who live near you if they can visit your dog while you’re gone. This is a great way for your Boston Terrier to break up the boredom.
Provide Chew Toys, Treats, and Toys That Can Also Be Used as Chew Toys
You can keep their stress levels down by providing them with chew toys and treats that they can also use as chew toys. Toys that your dog can chew on will keep him occupied and distracted while you are away. Chewing is also a natural behavior for dogs, and it helps keep their teeth clean, so providing chew toys is a win-win situation!
The best type of chew toy for your Boston Terrier is one made of rubber or nylon since it’s safe for them to bite down on. They won’t break their teeth and will last longer than other types of material such as rope or fabric.
In addition, if you have time before leaving the house, take some time to play with your dog with a few of these toys. This way, they will associate playing with those objects with fun times together instead of just being left alone while you’re away.
The same goes for treats. Provide ones that can double as a chew toy! You can put them in Kongs, which are available at most pet stores. They keep food inside until your dog works it out using their teeth. This will help keep them occupied and mentally stimulated while you are away.
Don’t Leave Them Alone in the Dark For Too Long
Boston Terriers are just like most other pets and they need a little light. If you just leave them in a dark room all of the time it can lead to stress. Instead, you should give him some light-up toys or flashlights while you’re out…. or turn on a tv and open the blinds. Not only will this provide some light for your dog, but it will also help them think that you haven’t left them behind.
Make sure that you keep their environment light and bright. There are plenty of ways to do this. You install a timer that turns on lights at night or even leave a lamp or night light on while you’re away.
These methods will help keep your pup from feeling anxious or scared when they’re out of your sight.
Consult Your Veterinarian About Anxiety-Reducing Medications
There may be medications that can help alleviate your pet’s anxiety. Separation anxiety medication may be the best option for some dogs. They may be able to recommend any supplements to help them with anxiety as well.
Conclusion
As you can see, Boston Terriers may not be the best dog for people who work all day. They are very affectionate and love to be around their owners. There are many ways to help work through needing to leave your Boston Terriers alone.
Ensure they are on a good routine and crate training them are two easy ones. Some people have told me they feel like crate training a dog is mean but after a short period of time, you will see that it does many things for the dog and the owner.
The first and most important is that it gives your dog a place to feel safe when they are alone. You will start to see your Boston go to their crate when they are tired or just want some comfort. It makes them feel like they are in a home inside of their home.
If you leave and come home every day around the same time, it helps your dog get used to it. Then if you make sure to play with or walk them when you get there, then the wait becomes less stressful. They get much more comfortable and happy being on a routine.
