Most dog lovers wish they could spend 24/7 with their pooches and bring them everywhere, but the unfortunate reality is sometimes they have to be left at home. But the question is, how long is a reasonable amount of time for a dog to be left alone when we head out?

While opinions and circumstances may differ, experts seem to broadly agree on a fair time period. Factors including the dog's age, how often they need to go to the toilet and how regularly they need exercise can all play a part, the Mirror reports. Some pets can also suffer from separation anxiety which can add complications.

Pet food company Royal Canin says: “Some dogs begin to feel anxious if there’s a sudden change in their life such as moving to a new house or family. Or if they suddenly begin to spend a lot less time with their owners than they’re used to, such as when people return to going out to work after a period of lockdown. Even the loss of another family pet can bring about separation anxiety.”

Anxiety issues can lead to dogs toileting in the house or becoming destructive and damaging furniture. The RSPCA recommends owners use a pet camera or video call their dog to check in on them and ensure they are coping well alone. There are several cameras available to buy, and some are better than others.

They include £20 cameras where you can talk to your dog, and a pricier £200 camera with 360 degree views and the ability to throw treats. The Mirror Choice team have previously tested a number of these devices for checking up on our pooches, and you can find out which they think is the best here.

Separation anxiety aside, the RSPCA suggests that the length of time a dog can be left alone is up to four hours. They said: “The length of time a dog can be left alone depends on the individual dog but we advise that they are left for no longer than four hours so they have opportunities to exercise, go to the toilet, and spend time with people.

“Studies have found that if you gradually introduce your dog to being left alone when they come to live with you, then you are less likely to have a problem later on.”

The Blue Cross agrees, saying ‘your dog should never be left alone for more than four hours at a time’, though it very much depends on the dog, their age, breed and how they cope with being on their own in the house. The charity added: “Some may struggle being away from their owners for this long and others will be unphased.”