Do Pekingnese Need Daily Dog Walkers?

Question

I have a 7 month-old female Pekingnese dog, whom I've been having walked daily while I'm at work (approximately 8 hour days). Initially,I had her walked 2x's p/day when she was a small puppy, then down to 1 walk p/day, and now, she is definitely capable of long-term bladder control. Unfortunately, finances have become strained, so the $12 p/day walks are frankly not possible. I'm wondering if others who work use dog walkers and if so, how frequently? I have friends in the city with small dogs who work full-time & don't use dog walkers at all. I don't want to be a bad dog parent-of course, if $ were no object, I would do it for her getting xtra attentiion/exercise while I'm @ work--it's just that now it may not be possible. She loves her crate, so I would be crateing her or confining her to a small space via doggie gate. Does she still NEED the dog walker? Thank you!

Answer 1

Yes, dogs need exercise and stimulation to stay healthy. Walk your own dog. 8 hours a day is normal work time. You can take a peke around two blocks after work. Its not like they have to walk far. Why would you hand your dog over to some stranger? If I were a dog walker I'd walk away with peoples dogs and maybe ever come back. Goodbye and thanks for the dog. Make myself a profit selling off people's dogs.

Answer 2

I am sure your dog will be fine for 8-9 hours without a potty break. If you are worried about it get some puppy pads and put down for her just in case of emergencies. It will only take a day or two to determine if she is able to hold her bladder that long. In a small space she will try to avoid soiling around where she is kept since it is her space. Most dogs aren't interesting in being around their own feces/urine for any length of time.

Answer 3

Dont feel bad. You can walk her when you get there she really only needs your affection.

Answer 4

She will be fine. Your not a bad parent, just a broke one.