How long can a dog be left alone? The law and common sense

The law sets a limit of 24 hours, but your dog needs much less time alone to be well. How to organise yourself if you work away from home.

The legal limit

Ley 7/2023 (the Animal Welfare Act) bans leaving a dog unsupervised for more than 24 hours in a row, and any other companion animal for more than three days (art. 27.i). It is a maximum, not a recommendation.

What it really needs

An adult dog needs to go out to do its business several times a day and is not made to spend many hours in a row alone. Puppies and older dogs can manage even less.

If you work away from home

A long walk before you leave, so it is tired when you go.
A dog walker or a trusted neighbour in the middle of the day.
Doggy day care, if there is one nearby.
A fillable or sniffing toy just for when you are not there.
Train it little by little to stay alone, starting with short spells.

Signs it is having a hard time

It barks or howls non-stop, damages doors or things, wees indoors or hurts itself trying to get out. It is not bad manners: it may be separation anxiety. Talk to your vet or a behaviour specialist.