Dog Community

New puppy alone

Anonymous

Posted : 8/16/2006 8:24:14 PM

Hi!
I wanted to get a puppy (boston terrier) or rescue one. I am undecided as to which I am going to do yet, although I realize a rescued pet might need a little more love depending on what they've been through. Anyways, my question is, how long does everyone leave their dogs alone during the day for while they work? If I got a dog, it'd be alone for 10 hours by itself, from 8am til 6pm when my boyfriend gets home from work. I feel that this is not fair to the dog and its the biggest reason as to why I didnt get a dog yet. I was just wondering what everyone else's opinions on this were? Obviously when I get home from work the dog would go for a long walk everyday, or at least do something outdoors. Any opinions are welcome to sway me in one direction or another.

Thank you!

Julitza

Posted : 8/16/2006 8:42:26 PM

With you working such long hours i'd recommend getting an older dog, who does not mind being alone as much and doesnt need the constant attention that a puppy needs.

If I had come across I-Dog before getting Liz I probably would have adopted an older dog, for the simple fact that I work from 8to5. But Lizzie has been really patient, though she is a terror when I am at work, always barking at something.

House training was a bit harder for the simple fact that I got home and had to do a zillion things and I couldnt keep my eye on her 100% of the time.

But anyway, good luck finding your perfect pet!

jones

Posted : 8/17/2006 11:30:10 AM

I'm not sure a Boston is the right breed for your situation. The breed info I've read on them states that they're highly social and need a lot of time with their owners to be happy and well adjusted. Whatever breed you do get I would strongly recommend adopting an adult dog. Younger dogs need a lot of exercise, a lot of social interaction, a lot of training, a lot of time with you... an adult dog, perhaps a larger less active breed, would be better able to cope with hanging out alone all day.

Anonymous

Posted : 8/17/2006 11:40:02 AM

I haven't had time to read up on the Boston Terriers yet so I really didn't know that about them. A lady in our apartment complex has one and we both think they are just the cutest dogs...do you have any suggestions on a breed that would fit my situation? I wouldn't want a dog any bigger than 40 lbs.

Thanks for your advice!

Laura R

Posted : 8/18/2006 1:28:06 PM

Leaving a dog alone for so long isn't the best for them but thousands of people do it all the time so i'm sure it can work, and there must be great info out there about it. Mostly all i've read is to get another pet to keep it company, preferably another dog but i've heard cats can help, too. I know that isn't always an option, though! I know one very laid back breed that would probably do well for you would be the basset hound. We fostered an adult basset not long ago and absolutely fell in love with him. Only thing I didnt like about him was that he was almost too lazy! Lol We couldnt seem to get him motivated for walks or anything... unless food was involved

Best of luck on your new little one!

Caprice Christian

Posted : 8/18/2006 1:59:04 PM

I also would suggest getting an older dog and one that is less active. Being gone for 10 hrs a day, your dog would need at least one walk a day, but it would be better if you could walk him/her in the moring as well. I have a 1 1/2 yr old Poodle / Yorkie mix that is SOOOOO lazy. He would probably be fine if I left him that long, he likes to sleep all day anyways!

Candice Sparrow

Posted : 8/21/2006 1:41:51 PM

Hi, just wanted to say I just got a boston, I work from 8:30-4:30 but I am able to go home at lunch time and on my break cause i live not to far away from work, but then again i also have a dog sitter who is also my neighbour come and check up on him. Just wanted to say they are such good little dogs..... full of energy!