Dog-how long alone during day?

[disneynut 0]

Amy, as a multiple dog owner, I would agree that having at least one dog is a great idea. It's wonderful to have someone to greet you when you get home from a long day of work, who wants nothing but love and loves you back no matter what. On the same note, they are a lot of work too. If you have never owned a dog before, you must be consistent with walking, feeding time, etc. because they don't care if it's a Saturday and you want to sleep in or you are on vacation. Goldens shed a lot! Are you prepared to have dog hair on everything you own? Puppies cannot and should not be left in a crate for that long a period without a break to potty, eat, drink and play. All my dogs are crated during the day, but I always go home at lunchtime to let them out to do their business. If I can't be home because either I'm busy at work or plan on being away all day, I hire a dog sitter to come over to let them out. I personally think being in a crate for 8 hours is too long, not that they cannot hold it for that amount of time, but just to take a break!

Do lots of research to find what breed is best for you and your lifestyle. If you are not active, you don't want a jack russell terrier, a border collie or austrailian shepard. If you are active, i.e. biking, jogging, hiking, etc., you don't want a toy breed. Look into petfinder, breed specific rescue or the humane society. Unfortunately, a lot of beautiful, sweet and healthy dogs are dumped because people think they are disposable. Dogs are a lifetime commitment, so picking the right breed will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Best of luck in finding a wonderful companion or two.

Paula

[BPM 0]

If you can fence your yard and put in a doggy door so they have all day access..then get a big dog. If it truly is going to be an inside dog...the go with a toy breed.

I have:

A 7 year old Chihuahua....fantastic dog and not anything like the stereotype of small dogs.

I have a 5 year old "Daschua" Daschund/Chi mix.

I have a 2 year old Rat Terrier.....Holy hell on 4 feet. I love her to death but she will run you ragged and wouldn't make a good indoor dog.

I have a 1 year old Boxer....also an incredible dog. If you are stuck on a big dog...do some research on these dogs....they are incredible....and I would highly recommend either a Boxer to the big dog fan or a Chi to a small dog fan.

As you can see.....we are dog lovers.

[CCBSTX 0]

First, I'd like to suggest a fence before the dog. It will save you time/effort when you are home to let the dog out without having to always join it. If you can do it ,financially, you'll be glad you did!

I'm with the getting the older dog group. Because it is just you and the dog, it would be an ideal situation.

Good luck. Shawn

[jgandg 0]

The time away is fine (our dog is alone from 7:30 - 5) but housetraining might be difficult. I suggest reading a few books before deciding on a puppy (I think one of the Dummies books helped us when our dog was a puppy) because the first year can be very difficult if you work, difficult for you and the dog.

I think it's a wonderful idea though! Dogs are just wonderful and bring so much joy. Best wishes to you in this new stage of your life.