We work full time, which dog is best for us?

Question

My partner and I are looking into getting a dog but we both work 4 days a week, however he doesn't leave the house until 9.30 am and I am usually back at 4.30pm. we also have a family member who is prepared to come at lunch time and take the dog out for a walk. we also don't have a garden but live right near the beach. Is there any dog that would be right for us and if so what age of dog is best?

Answer 1

I'm not entirely sure of the right breed, but it seems as if many would work for the two of you. Props to you to putting so much consideration into this. My partner and I have an eleven year old black lab. We are both on night schedules, sleeping during the day. He seems to work very well with our schedule. However, I've only been a partial owner for a year now. I would maybe consider asking some individuals at animal shelters near you. They would be able to offer you advice without the bias a breeder/pet store might. As far as the comment on a pet being a life long committment, it is. However, many people have to work and are able to spend a good deal of time with their animals.

Answer 2

Hi there. Actually, the question you need to ask yourself is, what kind of dog do you want to include your basic "Mutt"; who by the way make awesome pets. Your limits are only what you are able to handle along with what breed you want. Only you know what dog is best for you.

Reading your situation, and having a family member come over and walk the dog at lunch is all cool, but what if for a few days the family member is sick and just can't do it, then what? Here's where I'm going with this.... Are you looking to get a puppy or a dog? I tell everyone this, you need to really think about crate/kenneling your pup/dog while you are at work. No, it is not inhumane. I have a smaller Rottie and my Mastiff that are kenneled when we are at work. There are gentle steps you need to take if you should decide to do this.

Now, as far as size etc, again that's up to what you want and can handle. I tell all my peep's to research the breed you are most interested in. When you make a decision, always remember that no matter the breed you choose, you are the pack leader. This means that you are purchasing a pup/dog, not a doll or baby human to be dressed in pink dresses and carried in a purse. Dogs have basic instincts that no matter what we do, we will never ever be able to take these instincts away from a dog. What I mean here is that everyday after work when you get home no matter how big/small the dog you must walk him at least 20-30 minutes a day. This also gives you one on one time with him to bond. If you get a dog that has a higher energy rate, in addition to the 30 minute walk, play games with him, or get a Kong and put a treat in it, that will keep him busy.

Also, remember to socialize your dog, take him to classes if you can, and always remain calm and assertive.

Good luck. If you would like additional help you can email me at [e-mail]

Answer 3

Well, a dog that is a bit older, beyond the puppy years, might benefit you as very young puppies can sometimes need to potty every 30 minutes. An older dog can "hold it" for longer periods.

The kind of dog you choose depends on a few things too. You have a place to take the dog for a good romp, but how often can you commit to doing this? Daily, evey few days, or several times a day? Your personal acitvity level should dictate breeds you consider. How big is your home? If you live in a rather small home, a large breed might not be the best choice. Do you mind a dog that needs lots of grooming, or is the weekly brushing all you prefer to do?

From personal experience, American Eskimo Dogs are great. Mine is sweet as ever and I made a point to socialize her well with people and children when she was little and now she loves everyone. Dachshunds are sweet, little dogs with a big personality, but they are also a little clingy. Ours love to be with his people all the time. We also have a Border Collie, but this breed does require a major commitment to training and excercise... the daily walk isn't sufficient for this breed and they really need a "job" to do. They tend to need mental stimulation as well as physical excercise and if they get bored (happens easily) they can become destructive as a result. This breed is a wonderful dog, but not for everyone and takes serious amounts of dedication to keep it truly happy. We are going into agility and obedience competitions and training with our to give her that "job".

A rescue is always a good option too, if you don't have your heart set on a purebreed. A good rescue group/shelter will know enough about the potential dog you want to adopt and be able to help determine if it will fit nicely into your lifestyle-taking things like how much time you spend away from home and your activity level into consideration.

Good luck finding a new friend!

Answer 4

Avoid toy breeds. They need companionship and company. They live to sit on a lap and pamper their people - conning them into thinking their dog is the center of their universe.

Avoid sporting breeds. These dogs thrive on long walks, frequent play and being the center of the universe.

Avoid long-haired breeds. They require frequent brushing and live to be groomed and admired.

Check with your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy to see what dogs are on their blacklist. Certain breeds are considered too high risk for an insurance policy to cover your liability. Generally, insurance companies will frown at a policy holder owning a german shepherd, rottweiler, akita, doberman, american stafforshire and shar pei.

What does that leave? St. Bernard, Mastiff, Great Pyrenees. The larger the dog, the more content he/she will be to keep the hearth warm for your return. In adulthood, these animals are rarely hyper and they can be content with a single bone to gnaw away the idle hours with. No blanket can compare with the warmth of a pyrenee sleeping on the covers - keeping you tucked in. In maturity, they tend to become large mounds wherever they sleep that have to be stepped over - thus keeping your leg muscles well toned.

That's just my personal opinion. Your mileage may vary.

Answer 5

I think a golden retriever would be good for you--perhaps one old enough to be already house-broken, since it sounds as if it would be difficult for you to put the time into it that it takes for most dogs. A golden grows into a loving pet content to be with its humans, and also loves a fun run or walk. The beach would be great. It is a fairly large dog, however, and you might or might not want that...

Answer 6

This is for you to do some home work and your partner and see what kind of dog to get. There are a lot of dogs at the Pound or you can adopt one but you need to look at what is good in the cage. Like a lab is good but maybe to big but a westie may be just right.
good luck.

Answer 7

Definately not a puppy of any breed. If you're not at home for long periods, DO NOT GET A PUPPY! They'll tear your house apart, and it's not fair to leave a puppy alone for extended periods.. I think you should go to the local shelter and see who speaks to your heart. Purebreds are just dogs in designer cloths. Mixed breeds are just a loving and devoted, any the ones at the shelters REALLY need you.

Answer 8

An adult dog would work for you go to local shelter and adopt one but before you do ask yourself are you ready for the commitment and make sure when you do get your dog its the one for you good luck

Answer 9

personaly i would go for akita gowjas dogs love walking and can adapt to any life style i have two and the are brillant and smart,protective,good with kids. a good purebred akita is the way to go u have a friend for life then.

Answer 10

Go to the pound. Purebreds, they go a little coo coo in the head because of all the inbreeding.