New daaawg and Home alone

[berty2000]

Hi,

I really want to get a dog and have been putting it off for years as I live alone and the times that I work are either 3 nights of 7pm to 7am or 3/4 days of 7am to 7pm.

The dogs I really want are either a Basset hound or a British Bulldog. From what I have read I know that the Basset is a real people person, very intelligent and is very likly to not like being alone when i go to work, so i guess that rules that one out.

The Bulldog is also said to be a real loyal, affectionate dog but as yet I havent read anything to say how it would miss me.

I know that I am not in the best lifestyle pattern for a dog but I dont think I can be that unusual, however, I also want to be responsible, (hence having waited so long for various reasons). Would the Bulldog be ok if the Basset really was out? If not, are there any dogs that would be suitable? (Would love a Siberian Husky but that would be mad for me)

If thats the case then its back to reptiles I guess!

Rob.

[DiegoDog]

There are some breeds known for their independence. But don't disclude a breed for worry as to how it will be when your gone. Whats important is how you train it and get let it learn how to rely on itself while love you and be loyal. So many dogs go through seperation anx. And that is generally the only issue in which dogs have difficulty with a person being gone. With your work schedule it will be very very hard to train a puppy. Only because 12 hours plus travel is very long for a young puppy. If you can get someone to let out the puppy while you are at work then its okay, but otherwise it will be too hard on the puppy not to mention unfair to expect her to hold it that long when she is trained. So my advice is to hold off unless you can find someone or a situation in which the puppy can get the attention it needs. If you live in a larger city, perpahs see if there are any doggy day schools or day kennels where the puppy can still get socialized and her needs taken care of while you are unable to be ther with her. Because I understand the desire to have a puppy to love and thats a good thing. But you have to make sure that what you do is also best for her. (By the way I am just using her because its easier then writing he/she all the time)

[Magnum]

I agree with Diego. I also noticed you didn't exactly say anything about getting it as a puppy, so this would make a difference in the training. If you were to adopt a dog from a rescue, you should be able to find one that is suited to your work, as well as already potty trained. A rescue organization has dogs in foster homes that potty train, crate train, and socialize the dogs on a daily basis. They will be neutered/spayed, up to date on shots, and ready to go to a forever home. There is an application process, but this is to ensure the right home is chosen for the right dog. Do you work 3 shifts then so many off in a row, or is it 6 days a week? This also makes a difference. If you work 5-6 days a week at 12 hours per shift, I would say that wouldn't be fair to the dog, regardless if it was conditioned to deal with it. I think you are doing a great job in researching your options and keeping the dog's well being at a high priority. Good luck and please let us know what you decide to do. ;)

[berty2000]

Hi ya,

I would prefer a puppy but yeah, I understand the problems my shift would cause so I am fine with getting a rescue dog. In fact, I feel good about getting a rescue dog rather than a 'new' one as it isnt the dogs fault it doesnt have a home and it isnt as if it is 'over the hill' just becaus eit isnt a pup.

I work usually Fri, Sat and Sun, rarely a Monday, then I am off. In the offtimes I would be with the dog probably pretty much all the time. I used to keep some Reptiles which is why i originally didnt have a dog, then I moved and became single, didnt wanna couple up just so I could have a dog! I am about 15mins from work at the mo so travel time is short.

All advice is great thanks.

Rob.

[DiegoDog]

Well if you have no issues with one that is not in need of the constand potty breaks then I don't see any issues. As long as the dog is let out before and after. My dog is left about 10 hours a day when I work. Once they get used to the schedule all is good. If you have any questions when you get your dog, let us know. Everyone here is to help one another. And good luck with your doggie search!

[berty2000]

Many thanks Diegodog

It is good to know other responsible people leave their dogs for long times too. I am fine with toilet spilages, I wouldnt expect a 4 hour dry session so to expect 12 hours is way out of line for the lil' things!

Rob

[Magnum]

4 days off in a row is great!! :D Good luck and please keep us updated. ;)

[berty2000]

Hi Magnum,

I will keep you in touch thank you, many thanks also for your input. As I said to Diego, it is nice that others who are responsible think that that amount of time alone is ok for the dogs as i would not wanna stress the dog out, especially a rescue one.