Hi guys,
After picking up my beautiful GSD puppy from her breeder last week, she's sleeping well, takes herself outside for the toilet, however as a first time shepherd owner there are a couple of things that are stressing me out.
Firstly, I decided to take a couple weeks off work whilst she settles in, with the intention of slowly getting her used to being alone outside during the working day. The last 3 days we've left her outside alone for 2hr/2hr/3hr, in which she goes between sitting at the back door, sleeping at the step, scratching at the door and whimpering/crying. I know shes only a puppy, but how long will it take for her to adjust and be more comfortable being left alone during the day?
Before leaving her alone i throw the ball around the yard with her, have a little training session, have my shower etc, then leave without making any fuss (shes very calm when i leave).
She has chew toys etc with her, but has no interest in them when shes alone.
Am I doing the right thing? I'm assume I'm just being a worry wart, and she'll get used to it soon, but hearing her howl and whimper is hard to take.
Thanks guys. Any tips etc would be appreciated.