What age do you think puppies can go outside alone?

[Lindsey & Cocoa]

My cocoa is only 10 weeks so I know its way to early to expect her to be alone and she is still at the point where she wont leave my side but more than 10 feet. I have only had her 2 weeks so I know she is still adjusting to her new home.

But I am expecting a baby in May and was wondering how old do you think they are when they will step away from you a little and do their business outside alone?

Right now we are going out every 10-45 minutes depends on when she signals the door (the weather is really weird and nice here so she wants out constantly and I would not mind this except I have to go with her) While out there she plays for a good 20-30 minutes before doing her business.  So I guess my fear is that she will continue this pattern for months and there is no way I can run outside this much and stay outside with her with a 4.5 year old in the house and a new born.

 

So do you think when Cocoa is 5-6 months old going outside with us by her side will be a thing of the past?  I can not remember how long I had to do this with my other dogs and long for the day I can once again just open and the door and say "go potty" and they go out to play and potty alone.

 In about another month should I start just sending her out alone while watching out a winder or something to get her use to this?

[Helen & Kirby]

You're on the right track.  You could even go out with Cocoa and then come back in and leave the door open (weather permiting) while Cocoa stays outside.  Eventually you will be able to leave her outside for longer periods of time.  You never know, there may be a time, like when you're having the baby, that she will will need to be outside alone for extended periods of time.  As long as the yard is fenced and safe, she should be fine.  The earlier you start, the less "barking" you will have later! And not so much separation anxiety!