Posted: August 28, 2025
Let me tell you about the time my 4-month-old puppy Luna cost me $500 in apartment damages. And how it could’ve been totally avoided if I hadn’t made one crucial mistake.
I thought I was being smart. Luna was house-trained (mostly), knew “sit” and “stay,” and was the cutest thing ever. I figured leaving her alone for a few hours while I went to work would be fine. I puppy-proofed by putting shoes away and blocking off the kitchen.
What I didn’t account for? Separation anxiety mixed with teething. Came home to find she’d chewed through the corner of my bathroom door, scratched up the hardwood by the front door, and somehow destroyed a window blind.
The mistake I made: I never practiced being alone gradually.
Here’s what I should have done (and what I’m doing with my new puppy):
Week 1-2: Short departures
- Start with just stepping outside for 2 minutes
- Come back in like it’s no big deal
- Gradually increase to 10-15 minutes
- Don’t make a fuss when leaving or returning
Week 3-4: Longer periods
- Work up to 30 minutes, then an hour
- Leave a special toy that only comes out when you’re gone
- Try leaving at different times so they don’t anticipate it
The game-changers:
- Crate training – I was resistant at first, but puppies actually like having their own space
- Frozen Kong toys – Keeps them busy for at least 20 minutes
- Tired puppy = good puppy – A 20-minute walk before leaving works wonders
- Background noise – I leave soft music or the TV on now
What I learned about puppy-proofing:
- They will chew things you never imagined (RIP bathroom door)
- Anything dangling is a target (blinds, charging cables, curtains)
- They can reach higher than you think when they’re motivated
- Baby gates are your friend – use them liberally
Real talk about costs:
- Crate: $80 (best investment ever)
- Replacing door: $200
- Hardwood floor repair: $150
- Window blinds: $75
- New security deposit: $500
- Learning this lesson the hard way: Priceless (but expensive)
The good news? Luna is now 2 years old and can handle being alone for 6-8 hours no problem. We gradually built up her confidence, and she actually goes to her crate voluntarily when she sees me getting ready for work.
For new puppy parents: Don’t rush the alone-time training. I know you’re eager to get back to normal life, but those extra weeks of gradual training will save you money, stress, and your security deposit.
Your future self (and your landlord) will thank you.