If you've got a pet, it's likely that you love their company and just want to be around them all the time.
But unfortunately this just isn't always possible, with work and another commitments meaning we need to keep them at home whilst we're out and about.
It takes more than just leaving your dog in the house alone with food and water - the animals need mental stimulation, exercise and toilet breaks throughout the day, and they'll get lonely without any company.
To help owners know exactly how long dogs can be left alone in the house for, pup behaviourist Adem Fehmi from Barking Heads has shared his advice with the Mirror.
How long can I leave my dog home alone?
"Ideally, we should look to leave our adult dogs alone no more than four hours at a time," Adem said.
"For younger dogs, they might only manage between an hour and two hours.
"Not only will your dog likely need to go to the toilet after this length of time, dogs are social mammals and need company as well as mental and physical stimulation throughout the day."
What should I do if I'm going to be out for a while?
"If you don't have any trusted family members or friends to help care for and keep your dog company in your absence, using a dog walker or pet sitter can be a good option," Adem said.
"The team at Barking Heads have created a useful downloadable guide which you can fill out, then hand over to your pet sitter so they know all the necessary info about your pup.
"If your dog has separation anxiety, a home sitter can be a good option.
"Some individual care providers might also be able to take your dog on a 1-2-1 basis at their own home if this is something your dog is able to cope with."
Adem also suggested doggy day care as an option, but whatever you choose, you should make the decision based on your pet's needs and personality.
How to keep your dog entertained at home
"For me, food dispensing toys are a must," Adem said.
"Even though my own dogs are happy to be left alone, either together or individually, when I go out I always leave them with a food dispensing toy each with something tasty to work at inside.
"It is useful to ensure that the food you are offering in a food dispensing toy is valued by your dog.
"If your dog is a fussier eater, it can be helpful to save special 'high value scent' treats such as fish, meat or wet food to use.
"It is also key to choose the right food dispensing toy for your age and breed of dog.
"There are lots on the market and a behaviourist or a good pet shop should be able to point you in the right direction if you are unsure."
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