As dogs are pack animals, they shouldn’t be left for more than four hours at a stretch, but there are ways in which you can make the time pass more quickly while you’re out.

Home alone

Most dogs will sleep well if they have had a good run around, so try and fit in a morning walk before you head off to work – it’s also a great way to clear your mind to prepare for the day ahead. If you can’t return home at lunchtime, arrange for a neighbour, friend or dog-sitter to let your dog out for a call of nature and another walk or play session to help her chill for the afternoon with another nap.

Brain games

Another equally good way to tire your dog out is to make him use his brain. You can do that on the walk by asking him to walk to heel, sit, wait or leave, and rewarding the correct behaviour. Letting him have every sniff is also a good mental workout for your dog. When you get home, you can stuff a Kong with his breakfast or a selection of his favourite treats and leave him to exhaust himself working out how to release the food. Lulu’s Pet Pantry stocks Kongs and other brain games such as Lickimats and treat dispensers. Give your dog a mental challenge by packing her favourite toys in a box or bucket. Layer them with old towels and a few treats to keep her interested, and loosely cover with a lid to make an exciting present for her to unwrap while she’s home alone.

Chew to relax

In the wild, canines savour the bone of their prey and spend hours chewing to release the highly nutritious marrow and calcium, while the chomping action alone stimulates the flow of endorphins which relaxes the dog, making it feel sated and happy. You shouldn’t leave your dog unattended with a chew, but providing a raw bone or natural product such as a chewy tendon, pizzle or antler before you go will simulate this natural relaxant. Chewing is also nature’s way to remove plaque, so this also keeps your dog’s teeth in tip top condition.