When it comes to Cane Corsos, one of the most commonly asked questions is “How long can they be left alone?”
This is a tough question to answer because there are so many variables involved. Each dog is different and will have its own individual needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a look at some of the things that you need to consider when deciding how long your Cane Corso can be left alone.
Key Takeaway
- An adult Cane Corso can typically be left alone for 4 to 8 hours per day, while a puppy under 4 months should not be left alone for more than a few hours at a time.
- Before leaving your Cane Corso alone, ensure they have been adequately exercised, fed, provided with water, and left in a safe, comfortable space with toys and distractions to keep them occupied.
- If your Cane Corso doesn’t handle being left alone well, start by providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before you leave, gradually increase the time they spend alone, and consider using calming aids like your own scent, sound, or even anxiety medication as recommended by a vet.
- To keep your Cane Corso busy while you’re gone, provide them with mental stimulation through interactive toys, ensure they get plenty of exercise before you leave, and consider dog-friendly activities or training exercises that can help them feel more comfortable when alone.
How Long Can a Cane Corso Be Left Alone?
A Cane Corso younger than one year can be left for one to two hours, while a more mature Cane Corso can be left alone for up to six hours. However, senior Cane Corso should be left alone for less time depending on their health condition.
When it comes to leaving a Cane Corso alone at home, training plays a huge part. No dog will be able to handle being left alone for seven or eight hours right away. However, leaving a dog alone will teach them what is expected of them in situations and how to behave at their best.
Cane Corso puppies shouldn’t be left alone for more than an hour or two. It doesn’t matter if you have a doggie-proofed household or a playpen.
The reason why I personally don’t recommend leaving a puppy alone for one or two hours is that they are very curious. Curiosity can get them in trouble. Also, they also might feel lonely and scared.
Like other dogs, Cane Corso is known for having separation anxiety. This is mainly because they really enjoy human company and being a part of the family pack. You will notice that your dog will have a hard time separating from you in the beginning.
Make sure that your Cane Corso has fresh water and food before you leave for work. If you have a neighbor or a family member who lives close by, it would be great to come and check in on your pup while you work.
What Should I Do Before I Leave My Cane Corso Alone?
It is best if you have a routine or schedule in place that you and your Cane Corso follow before you leave for work. Having a routine will set expectations for your Cane Corso and they won’t be surprised when you leave.
The routine or schedule can be simple or complex. It really depends on you. It could be as simple as taking your Cane Corso out for a walk or taking them out for a bathroom break followed by a treat. Heck, maybe even snuggles and cuddles before you leave.
To be honest, your Cane Corso will struggle with being left alone. However, it is your duty as a pet parent to ease this process as much as possible. You have to be careful so your dog doesn’t end up with separation anxiety.
Whenever I do something new with my dog, I want to think from their perspective. So, the routine should be something like this: Okay my mom or dad takes me for a walk, then we snuggle a little bit. I then get some treats and they leave and come back.
Don’t make the leaving part more dramatic than it should be. In time, your Cane Corso will understand that you have to leave and that you always come back. It is not the end of the world.
My only advice here would be to take this training as slowly as possible. At first, try leaving your Cane Corso for twenty to thirty minutes. Just see how they will react, and then slowly increase the time. However, try not to leave your dog alone for more than seven or eight hours.
My Cane Corso Doesn’t Handle Being Left Alone, What Should I Do?
If your Cane Corso doesn’t handle being left alone, you should consider doggie daycare. Doggie daycare is very similar to child daycare. You can drop off your Cane Corso at a doggie daycare before you go to work and pick them up after work. The person who runs the doggie daycare will care for your dog while you are away.
In the doggie daycare, your Cane Corso will socialize with other dogs and humans. They will be provided food and water and will be kept busy so they don’t really have time to think about their owner.
Since Cane Corso’s are social dogs, doggie daycare will suit them. Regardless of whether your Cane Corso suffers from separation anxiety or not, they will be happy to join in the fun and play with other dogs.
My advice would be to try the doggie daycare. Give your Cane Corso some time to learn to live without you. Then, you can try again to leave your dog at home. Hopefully, this time they would be able to stay at home for seven to eight hours.
How To Keep My Cane Corso Busy While I Am Gone
To keep your Cane Corso busy while you’re gone, you can provide physical exercise before leaving, leave interactive toys, create a comfortable environment, and gradually train them to be comfortable alone.
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise is essential for a Cane Corso. These dogs are active and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Before leaving, make sure you take your dog for a walk or play a physically stimulating game. This helps to tire them out and makes them more likely to rest while you’re away.
Interactive Toys
Interactive toys can keep your Cane Corso occupied for hours. Chew toys, puzzle toys, or toys that dispense treats when manipulated can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. Make sure to rotate the toys regularly to keep your dog interested.
Comfortable Environment
Creating a comfortable environment for your Cane Corso can also help them feel secure while you’re away. This can include a comfortable bed, access to water, and familiar items that smell like you. If possible, try to leave some background noise on, like a radio or TV, as the sound can provide comfort.
Gradual Training
Training your Cane Corso to be comfortable alone is essential. Start by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increase the duration. This can help reduce separation anxiety and make them more comfortable being alone for longer periods says Barkercise.
Are Cane Corso Prone To Separation Anxiety?
Yes, Cane Corsos are prone to separation anxiety due to their strong bond with their owners and their need for regular socialization and stimulation.
Cane Corsos are a breed known for their attachment to their owners and their eagerness to please, which can make them more susceptible to experiencing separation anxiety when left alone.
This condition can manifest in various behaviors, such as excessive barking, destructiveness, and showing signs of distress.
The likelihood of separation anxiety can be even higher in Cane Corso puppies, particularly if they’ve been denied proper socialization or have experienced neglect.
However, this doesn’t mean that Cane Corsos cannot be left alone. With the right training, consistency, and consideration for their needs, these dogs can learn to handle periods of solitude.
What Are The Signs of Separation Anxiety in Cane Corsos?
Cane Corsos with separation anxiety typically exhibits behaviors like excessive barking, destructiveness, and signs of distress when left alone.
Excessive Barking or Howling
One of the most common signs of separation anxiety in Cane Corsos is excessive barking or howling. This behavior usually starts soon after you leave and continues for an extended period. It’s not the occasional bark at a passing car or a bird in the yard, but a sustained and frantic barking that doesn’t let up.
Destructive Behavior
Another sign of separation anxiety is destructive behavior. This could include chewing on furniture, shoes, or other items in the house, digging at doors or windows, or other forms of destruction. This behavior is often driven by stress and anxiety, and is not the dog being ‘bad’.
Signs of Distress
Signs of distress can include pacing, panting, drooling excessively, or attempting to escape from a room or crate. These are all indications that your Cane Corso is feeling anxious. In severe cases, dogs may even urinate or defecate in the house.
Changes in Appetite
Cane Corsos with separation anxiety may also show changes in appetite, often eating less when their owners are not present. They may also refuse treats or toys that they would normally enjoy.
Overly Excited Greetings
While it’s normal for dogs to be excited when their owners return home, Cane Corsos with separation anxiety tends to display excessively excited greetings. This could include jumping, whining, and even urinating from excitement.
FAQs
Q: Why is it not recommended to leave a Cane Corso alone for too long?
A: Leaving a Cane Corso alone for extended periods can lead to separation anxiety, which can manifest in destructive behavior, excessive barking, and other negative behaviors. They require ample social interaction and mental stimulation.
Q: How long is too long to leave a Cane Corso alone?
A: While every dog is different, it is generally not recommended to leave a Cane Corso alone for more than 4-6 hours a day. Anything beyond that can increase the risk of separation anxiety and behavioral issues.
Q: What can I do to make sure my Cane Corso is comfortable when left alone?
A: To ensure your Cane Corso is comfortable when left alone, provide them with a safe and cozy space with their bed, toys, and water. Consider using puzzle toys or treat dispensers to keep them mentally stimulated in your absence.
Q: Can I leave my Cane Corso alone if I have to work long hours?
A: If you have to work long hours, it is advisable to make arrangements for someone to check on your Cane Corso during the day. Alternatively, you can consider hiring a dog walker or taking them to doggie daycare to ensure they receive proper socialization and exercise.
Q: Are Cane Corsos prone to separation anxiety?
A: Yes, Cane Corsos are known to be prone to separation anxiety. They form strong bonds with their owners and can become anxious and distressed when left alone for extended periods.
Q: Can separation anxiety in Cane Corsos be treated?
A: Yes, separation anxiety in Cane Corsos can be treated. It is recommended to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can develop a tailored plan to help your Cane Corso overcome their anxiety. This may include desensitization exercises and positive reinforcement training.
Q: Can I leave my Cane Corso alone in the backyard?
A: It is not advisable to leave a Cane Corso alone in the backyard for extended periods. They are prone to separation anxiety and may exhibit destructive behavior or excessive barking when left alone outside. Additionally, they can become targets for theft or harm by strangers.
Q: How can I prevent separation anxiety in my Cane Corso?
A: You can help prevent separation anxiety in your Cane Corso by gradually exposing them to periods of alone time from a young age. Start with short intervals and gradually increase the duration. Providing them with mental stimulation, regular exercise, and positive reinforcement training can also help prevent separation anxiety.
Conclusion and final thoughts
In conclusion, it is possible to leave a Cane Corso alone for short periods of time. However, it is important to keep in mind that every dog is different and some may require more attention than others.
Therefore, it is important to assess each individual case before making decisions about how long a Cane Corso can be left alone. To ensure they receive the best care, it is recommended to provide them with appropriate exercise and mental stimulation while they are alone.
