Can Chiweenies Be Left Alone? (Useful Tips for Owners)


A Chiweenie is an adorable mix of two very popular breeds, dachshunds and chihuahuas. They’re small in stature with prominent personalities and are known to be loyal and oh-so-snuggly. But if you have a job or other activity that takes you away from home for several hours, you might wonder whether or not this designer breed can be left alone.

Chiweenies can be left alone, but only in small increments. That’s because the Dachshund parent can only be left alone for a maximum of four hours. Although the Chihuahua is a bit more independent, the inclusion of the Dachshund means that your Chiweenie should be left alone for a maximum of six hours at a time.

You’ve found this page because you need to find out whether Chiweenies can be left alone – and we’re here to help. . Below, you will find essential information such as how long Chiweenies can be left alone and how to avoid separation anxiety.

How Long Can Chiweenies Be Left Alone?

Chiweenies can be left alone for a maximum of six hours

This is primarily due to the Dachshund parent. Dachshunds are famously needy and love to spend hours snuggled on their owner’s lap. While this is one of the reasons why many people desire to own a Dachshund, it can also be a drawback for some pet owners, as they can’t be left alone for longer than four hours.

Chihuahuas, on the other hand, have a bit more independence. While they are also lap dogs that enjoy cuddling with their favorite people, they don’t mind spending time alone. In fact, Chihuahuas can easily be left alone for up to nine or ten hours at a time – much more than the Dachshund breed.

Since a Chiweenie is a cute combination of the Chihuahua and the Dachshund, it’s clear why six is the magic number. Honestly, it’s best if you didn’t leave your Chiweenie at home for six hours regularly, though. They genuinely love your presence and will be upset if you’re away from them often and for too long.

Can a Chiweenies Be Left Alone for 6 Hours?

A Chiweenie can successfully be left alone for six hours, as long as there are some safeguards put into place (discussed later in this article). However, because six hours will likely be OK, it’s best to opt for shorter time frames to keep your hound happy.

Can Chiweenies Be Left Alone for 8 Hours?

You should avoid leaving your Chiweenie alone for eight hours. While now and then might be OK, you may put undue stress on your canine. They may even develop separation anxiety if you’re not careful. Therefore, keep the time your Chiweenie is alone to a minimum.

Are Chiweenies Prone to Separation Anxiety?

Chiweenies are prone to separation anxiety. If you leave them alone too often or for long periods, your charming Chiweenie will likely develop separation anxiety, which spells more significant trouble for you and your furry friend.

Your Chiweenie may be suffering from separation anxiety if they do any of the following:

Engages in Destructive Behavior

One of the most evident signs that your Chiweenie is struggling with separation anxiety is destructive behavior when you’re out of the house. When you’re gone, your Chiweenie may chew on your shoes, rip up the couch, or destroy the bathroom, among other types of destruction.

Another common thing a Chiweenie may do is flip their water or food bowl over. It is done out of anger, but the repercussions can be serious. For instance, if your Chiweenie flips their water bowl the second you leave the house, they may run out of water throughout the day, leading to dehydration.

Barks Excessively

Chiweenies may be small, but they have a lot to say. They are known for being one of the most vocal designer dog breeds. Chiweenies enjoy barking, and it can be hard to get this canine to stop barking even with proper training.

That said, it’s unsurprising that one of the signs of separation anxiety is excessive barking – especially while you are away from home. If you have a friend or neighbor who shares that your Chiweenie barks incessantly while you’re away, it may indicate separation anxiety.

Not only is this bad news for your pup, but it can create trouble for owners, too. For instance, a dog that won’t stop barking for hours on end can lead to issues with housing, especially if you live in an apartment or townhome complex with thin walls.

Paces in Circles or Straight Lines

Another sign that your Chiweenie is dealing with separation anxiety is pacing, either in circles or in straight lines back and forth. Of course, you’ll need a camera to pinpoint this sign of separation anxiety, but you should have a monitor in your home to keep an eye on your pooch while you’re away anyway.

Has More Potty Accidents

Lastly, Chiweenies suffering from anxiety will have more accidents – number one and two. If you come home to messes in every direction, you can conclude that your Chiweenie may be struggling with separation anxiety. 

(Potty accidents can indicate other health conditions, so consider getting your Chiweenie checked out by a veterinarian if the accidents occur while you’re home.)

Tips to Successfully Leave Chiweenie Home Alone

Chiweenies should be able to be left alone for about six hours, but even then, they might not be too happy about it. The good news is that there are many ways you can successfully leave your Chiweenie home alone without the fear of separation anxiety. Here are a few top tips and tricks.

Train Your Chiweenie (Preferably at a Young Age)

Chiweenies are notoriously difficult to train. That’s because they’re independent, intelligent, and fiercely stubborn. Needless to say, Chiweenies require a robust owner that can take on the challenge. 

If that’s you, then you need to train your Chiweenie to be left alone – especially at a young age. Like other types of training, such as housebreaking and socialization, the earlier you do it, the better.

To train your Chiweenie, practice coming and going in small increments. Do not make a big fuss about your departure or arrival. Simply put on your shoes, give your Chiweenie a hug, and provide them with something special and time-consuming. For instance, Chiweenies will appreciate an old shirt to snuggle with and a doggy puzzle game to keep them secure and occupied.

Start small with one or two-hour trips. You can gradually increase the time frame until your Chiweenie is happy and healthy, with you being away for up to six hours at a time.

Create a Safe Space

Chiweenies are tiny little fellas that can quickly become scared or intimidated by a big apartment or home. With that in mind, you must create a “safe space” for your Chiweenie. Don’t think of crate training, though, as crates are too small for your Chiweenie.

Instead, pick a portion of the home to section off using gates. Most people will choose the living room. You can place their bed, water and food bowl, toys, and other favorites in a smaller space. Consider keeping the TV on low so they feel comforted by the noise.

Exercise Them!

Although Chiweenies are pretty small, they require a good deal of exercise. Actually, Chiweenies need up to 60 minutes of exercise per day. If they don’t meet these physical requirements, they can become bored and pent-up, leading to naughty behavior.

That said, the best thing to do is to ensure that your Chiweenie gets enough exercise daily. Take them for a walk or play a game before leaving home. That way, they’ll be nice and tired while you’re away, leading to less of a chance of destructive behavior.

Give Them Plenty of Toys

Remember – Chiweenies are highly intelligent. If they aren’t using their mind for good, they’ll use them for evil. (That may seem excessive, but you will agree when you come home to a torn-up home!).

One of the easiest ways to avoid boredom is to offer your Chiweenie an assortment of toys. Chiweenies enjoy interactive and puzzle toys (link to Amazon), although they also enjoy companion toys when they feel cuddly.

Come Home During Lunch Break

If you can, do your Chiweenie a big favor by coming home on your lunch break. During this time, you can have lunch with your Chiweenie, play a game, and get some snuggle time in. This will appease your Chiweenie until you come home for the day.

If that’s too much, consider hiring a dog sitter to help out. That way, you can rest assured your Chiweenie won’t end up with separation anxiety and will get the exercise and socialization they need for their well-being.

Final Thoughts – Chiweenies Shouldn’t Be Left Alone for Long Periods

Chiweenies are prone to separation anxiety and don’t like being away from their owners. You should avoid leaving your Chiweenie alone for more than six hours, although the less time, the better. 

More on Chiweenies

If you’re simply in love with Chiweenies and can’t get enough, then check out our other posts below:

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