Will I have time for dog?

It’s not completely true that you can’t have a dog if you work full-time; many owners find a way of adjusting their hours or putting provisions in place, but it does require planning and commitment. However, some charities won’t rehome dogs or puppies to full-time workers, due to concerns that the animal will be left alone for too long.

When you first bring your puppy home, he will still need feeding four times a day, as well as frequent visits outside to toilet. Therefore, you should consider the timing of your new pup’s arrival, and whether you can book some time off from work so you can focus on toilet training, socialising, getting him used to the big wide world, and simply getting to know each other. Similarly, if you’re retired and spend lots of time away with family or going on holiday, you may need to consider whether a puppy would suit this lifestyle.

Young dogs, especially, need stimulation or they can become bored and destructive, resulting in a plethora of behavioural issues. Consider these options:

● Could you work from home sometimes? ● Could you dedicate enough of your free time to a dog?

● Do you have someone who could visit your dog during the day, such as a professional dog walker, family member, or trusted neighbour?

● Would it be best to choose a breed that doesn’t need as much stimulation and human interaction?

The general rule for an adult dog is that they shouldn’t be left alone for more than four hours a day, and although it’s good if you’re able to come home in your lunch hour to let your dog out for a wee, you will still need to find a way of compensating for the time you’re away.