[Discussion] How do you avoid feeling guilty about leaving dog for longer than normal? Also, any tips on transitioning to indoor-alone time?

This week my semi-new dog will be home alone a couple extra hours three days this week (work obligations, unfortunately). The work stuff is at night so I'll have to crate him (don't want him outside in the dark, and he does like his crate when we're home- he chooses to sleep in it at night). But I feel so bad anytime I've had to leave him at home in his crate. I always give him a Kong with treats but I know he doesn't like being left home alone regardless of where he is. Did anyone else feel guilty about this kind of thing but eventually realize that it's ok? Advice please! HahaBackground - Adopted an 8 month old dog 2 months ago (so he's 10 months now). He has free reign of the backyard (fully fenced, shade, etc) when I'm at work Tues-Fri. He gets playtime before and after I leave for work. I'd like to transition him to being inside alone when the weather warms up and on weird work days like this week. Last week we went out one night and wanted to see how he'd do without his crate (I don't want him outside in the dark). He ripped up the carpet by the door and ignored all the toys I had put in the room. I think he's still a little too young and still has some of his separation anxiety (though it's much better than it used to be) so I'm thinking I'll have to hold off on indoor alone time for a bit longer?TLDR; How do you avoid feeling guilty when you leave your dog longer than normal? AND any tips on transitioning dog to being home alone inside? via /r/dogs http://ift.tt/2ruKT6M