Jobs may come and go, but being a responsible dog owner is a long-term commitment. Under ideal circumstances, you could work from home or bring your dog to work with you and spend as much time with them as possible. But unless you’re employed at a pet-friendly workplace or have a job that allows you to work remotely, it’s likely you’ll need to leave your dog alone during the day.
If you’re wondering how to responsibly have a dog and a full-time job, this guide has you covered. Read on for expert advice on choosing a dog that fits your lifestyle, helping your dog adjust to being alone, and knowing when to rely on doggie daycare or a dog walker.
How Long Can You Leave a Dog Alone?
Whether it’s for meetings, travel, or regular shifts, working a traditional 9 to 5 job often means being away from your dog. The length of time you can leave your dog alone comfortably depends on their age, breed, and individual temperament. If you’re bringing home a puppy, keep in mind that they “have smaller bladders and less training, so they may need to relieve themselves every one to two hours,” says Bethany Hsia, DVM, veterinarian at CodaPet.
As dogs get older, they can hold their bladders longer and handle being alone for longer periods. Generally, “adult dogs can be left alone for about four to six hours at a time without experiencing significant distress,” she says. Senior dogs may need more frequent bathroom breaks due to age or health issues that affect their bladder control.
As social creatures, dogs are most content in the company of their human caretakers. Some dogs are more independent while others are prone to separation anxiety. “Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Border Collies may struggle with being left alone for extended periods, compared to more independent breeds like Greyhounds or Shiba Inus,” she explains. For dogs of any age or breed, leaving them alone longer than they’re comfortable can contribute to behavioral issues like inappropriate chewing or elimination.
Selecting a Dog That Fits Your Lifestyle
Now that you’ve thought about being apart from your dog, it’s time to start researching potential dog breeds. Whether you’ve had dogs in the past or you’re a first-time dog owner, it’s important to consider your lifestyle. Here are some questions to help you determine if you’re ready for a dog:
- Do you have time to socialize and train a puppy or adult dog?
- How long will you be out of the house each day?
- Does your job require travel, and who will care for your dog while you’re away?
- Can you afford the costs of food, veterinary care, grooming, and pet supplies?
- Can you commit to walking your dog regularly and providing mental enrichment?
- Do you have children or are you planning to have kids in the near future?
- Do you have other pets in the home?
- Do they each have a designated space, so you can separate them as needed?
Researching dog breeds can give you an idea of the dog’s size, temperament, and potential health issues. Start by reading information online, contacting breeders, speaking to fellow dog owners, and meeting dog breeds in person. You can use the AKC breed selector tool to help you narrow down the list and find an appropriate match.
Temperament is also worth considering if you currently have a dog and are looking to get another dog to keep them company. Some dogs crave human companionship, so adding another dog to the home might not be the best option. You might end up having two dogs that are bored and prone to engaging in destructive behaviors.
Helping Your Dog Adapt to Being Alone
Getting your dog accustomed to being on their own is a gradual process. Dr. Hsia suggests starting with leaving your dog alone for a short time. Try for an hour and gradually increase the time as they get used to being on their own.
Taking it slow can help reduce anxiety associated with your absence and shows them that you will return after a brief time, she says. You may also wish to use a pet camera to observe your dog while you’re out of the house to see how they’re adapting to the transition.
Another tip is establishing a consistent routine. This includes having “regular feeding times, walks before you leave, and predictable arrival times,” she says. Knowing what to expect promotes stability and helps your dog feel secure.
In addition to consistency, make sure your dog has a designated space where they feel safe and comfortable. They might enjoy resting in a dog crate, snuggling in a bolster bed, or having a cozy corner with their favorite toys and blankets. Be cautious with using a dog gate to keep your dog in one area of the home if they have a habit of jumping or climbing on furniture.
Providing Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Ensuring that your dog stays physically and mentally active “before and after work is crucial for maintaining their physical health and emotional well-being,” Dr. Hsia says. “Exercise helps burn off excess energy that could otherwise lead to destructive behaviors when left alone.” Tired dogs tend to be calmer and are less likely to experience separation anxiety.
Keep in mind that dogs have different needs when it comes to exercise. Depending on your work schedule, this could mean longer walks once a day or taking them out for short walks in the morning and evening. You can also toss a ball for them to fetch or play tug if your dog doesn’t have issues with pulling or aggression.
Just like exercise, mental stimulation helps to engage your dog’s mind and alleviate boredom. She recommends providing your dog with activities like puzzle toys, scent games, snuffle mats, or interactive toys that dispense treats. “These toys encourage mental engagement and provide an outlet for natural instincts like hunting or problem-solving,” she says.
Using Daycare Services or a Dog Walker
Between work and your commute, you’ll likely need to be out of the house for more than six hours at a time. One option is doggie daycare for promoting physical and mental engagement. If your dog needs one-on-one attention, you might consider hiring a dog walker to visit with your dog and take them for a walk.
Before going this route, make sure to research daycare facilities and dog walkers and read reviews from other dog owners, Dr. Hsia says. Ask about their experience handling dogs of various temperaments and sizes. “They should understand canine behavior and have experience managing different situations effectively,” she says.
Find out if the dog walker offers group dog walks or individual sessions. Get to know their policies for emergencies, such as if your dog goes missing or gets injured. You may wish to consider “a trial period with a dog walker or daycare service to see if your dog likes it,” she suggests.
With careful planning and consideration, you can have a dog and a full-time job. But if you’re still on the fence about getting a dog, there are other things you can do. You can volunteer to walk dogs at a rescue organization or foster a dog to see if you can manage these responsibilities while working full-time.
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