Can i have a dog?

From Ipswich,

Hi, My girlfriend and I really want to get a rescue dog but are unsure if it would be ok as we are both at work for a large part of the day. I would take the dog out for a walk befor work and im usally home by three. We have a good size garden which the dog could have access too through a dog flap but is this enough?? really gratefull for any responses thanks Tom.

From Seattle, 4 posts

I would suggest you do research on dog breeds and find a dog that isn't as dependant on the owner(s) as others. It would be bad to have a needy dog and be away so often, this can often result in destruction of your property. Some dogs, when left alone too long, will start destroying furniture like couches, chairs, tables. I personally had an Aussie that if I was gone too long he would rip into pillows. But not all dogs are so dependant on their owners, but it is a major part of considering when getting a dog.

From USA, 19 posts

my girlfriend's chiwawa is really keen on her. he barely leaves the house without her. good think she's not working many hours. try a breed that's more independent!

From South West UK, 2002 posts

Get a cat instead. Far easier if you're both working!

There are many beautiful cats in rescue centres to choose from. Better still, get two. Company for each other then. A dog does not like being left alone for long. I had a rescue dog once. He destroyed my house! Caused thousands of pounds worth of damage just while I took my kids to School! So be warned!

From London, 3 posts

The same thing is running through my mind i want to get a king charles cavelier but i dont know what to do. i leave hame about 7:30 and get back about 4 (this is in the day time)

4 posts

i am the same as miss. Williaams
i would love a cevelier and it would have a perfect home with me
The only problem is that the cavelier king charles spaniel would be left for up to 6 hours.
Is that fair on the dog?

From West Sussex, 2 posts

Not really, some breeds may cope better than others, but cavaliers crave company. You could always consider "TWO" as compant for each other.

Please also consider re-homing as many adult dogs are in need of a loving forever home.

2 posts

I think you would be fine to have a dog, as long as you do not get a dog like a greyhound or alsation that needs a lot of attention and exercise

4 posts

You should definitly get a rescue dog.
I really wanted a Cavelier King Charles Spaniel but in the end we realised that they were not the right dog for us.

I work during the day and so we were worried also about if the dog would be okay.
In the end we found the perfect dog, she was from a rescue centre from Dublin and is very independent.
We let her out in the garden during the day and walk her before and after work and she is extremely happy.

3 posts

Well it all depends on how much effort you are willing to put in. Dog take so much time and commitment to raise. Also you need to make sure your yard is fully fenced in.

To see if you are ready for a dog

http://www.teachingpuppies.com/am-i-ready-for-a-new-puppy

If you then decide that you are ready for puppy or rescue an older dog it is worth checking out http://www.teachingpuppies.com/picking-the-perfect-puppy

Animal Behaviourist

http://www.teachingpuppies.com