Time alone
We have been unsure about Brandy having the run of the house when we were away, as we were concerned with her chewing and potty habits, so a few times we have been putting her in the bathroom for an hour or so with her toys, open crate and a food-filled Kong. We twice found her on the counter-top when we returned and she would cower a bit. Most recently, she resisted somewhat going into the bathroom so we lured her, a real chow-hound, with food.
We wanted a better solution and, especially, a happy Brandy, as she has built our trust. Yesterday, as a test, we thought we’d leave her alone in the house for twenty minutes as we took a drive through the Old Coach area of Poway, admiring the homes, as well as a bit of country. When we returned, we were met by a happy Brandy and no destruction or soiling. We were ecstatic!
We later in the day went to our grandson’s, Hunter’s, 6th birthday party leaving Brandy with the run of the house for about three hours. Again, Brandy was simply happy we were home and had been a good girl while we were gone.
We would like to have the option of leaving Brandy outside while we are away and will soon work on that. Our concern is that she will bark, which is intolerable. We live in a very quiet neighborhood and will do our best to keep it that way.