Getting a dog and working hours

[indi]

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Hi people

Hope you all are well

I want to get a dog but have concerns as I work shifts and live alone. I currently work 10 hours shifts different start times but do get a a decent amount of days off

Would it be possible to get a dog when working long hours ? I wanted to get a small breed for example a Boston terrier .

Where do you all keep your dogs during the day when you are working?
I know some people have a gated area for example in the living room

I was thinking I could hire the services of a dog walker too if needed

Anyone in a similar situation who has a dog, advice would be appreciated

 

[colettedb]

Are you able to get someone to share a dog with you? 10 hours shifts are really too long to leave any breed on their own in my opinion- and you don’t say what your commute time is. So even having a dog walker come in for an hour a day would be very long periods for them to be alone and could lead to a very sad and distressed dog.

 

[JoanneF]

There are several reasons why it's not good for a dog to be left for long periods - apart from toileting, there's boredom. And dogs are social creatures, they like to be in company.

So I'd suggest two things. First, research daycare for dogs in your area. Some are badly run, others are excellent. So you will need to find out about them. Avoid ones that are chaotic, a free for all, with dogs running riot. Look for one that recognises different play styles, has opportunity for down time and one to one attention. Ask about the staff's training in dog behaviour, first aid etc.

If you work long hours, will they do pick up and drop off?

If you find one you like, my second suggestion is this - I suggest this to a lot of people in your situation.

For the next month, act like you have an adult dog. Get up an hour earlier than normal, take an hour long walk. Do the same in the evening after work - and come straight home from work; no shopping, gym, socialising. Do this every day, without fail, regardless of the weather.

Be aware of the season, and remind yourself every morning that for several months of the year you will be doing this in the cold and dark.
Also put away what you think a dog will cost for food, insurance, vet bill excesses, toys etc, then add 10% because we always underestimate these things.

That will give you a good insight into some of the commitment you will need to make.

Don't think about what a dog will bring to your family, think about what your family can offer to a dog.