Good or bad idea for a one person household to own a Dog?

Fortune50 · 01-19-2007, 09:11 PM

Hi, I would like to ask a question relating to single persons who own dogs. That is, it'll just be one person in the household along with one dog. I was wondering if this environment is healthy for a dog? My concern is that my work hours are long. I work 6a-6p on rotating days and I would work 3 or 4 days a week. Would my long absences become a big problem for a dog? Basically I don't want to get a dog if Im going to give it a complex, lol. Are some breeds better than others for this type of environment? I personally like smaller dogs. Breeds no heavier than say 12 lbs is what I'd prefer. I love dogs & cats and grew up around them almost all the time. But once I've been out on my own, I haven't had or been around pets that I'd consider my own since around 1990. But I believe a dog would be more to my liking. Any advice & experience will be good to hear from those in the know.

sobreeze · 01-19-2007, 10:36 PM

you might want to get a older dog a puppy needs a lot more time than your job would let you give there are some great dogs out there that need to be rescued look on pet finder.com and put in info see what comes up

britishbandit · 01-19-2007, 11:28 PM

Hmmm, well I live alone and have 3 dogs...LOL. So yes, it can be done, BUT, I don't work the hours you do. Great advice on searcing petfinder for an older dog though.

I think a puppy would be the wrong choice, it just isn't the right time for you. But, an older dog (I don't necessarily mean senior, just not a young pup) that isn't so (how do I put it....."demanding"), would be ideal.

Wimble Woof · 01-20-2007, 02:10 AM

I think an adult would be a great match for you! As long as you are willing and able to have some Serious excersise sessions after work!!!
I am relatively alone from monday to Friday ( bf works out of town) and I too work long hours ( once you factor in travel time) I have 4 dogs now ( since i have been off) but had 3 for the last 3 years! They adapt. As long as they are excersised like mad when you return, and are safe and content when you are gone! It would be great companionship for you!

skelaki · 01-20-2007, 06:34 AM

I often do work the hours you do and have almost always had a dog (at least). It can work. The best thing is to have someone, a pet sitter, or responsible friend or neighbor come in daily and take the dog out for walk, potty and play break. Also, don't plan a lot of activities outside work, such as going to the gym or partying. It's like having a child. The dog has to be your first priority. You should also consider getting a more independent breed such as a sighthound breed, Pekingese, or Tibetan Spaniel. Stay away from breeds such as Weimaraner's, which need to be close to their people all the time.

FranMan · 01-20-2007, 09:08 AM

I think is depends on your house. Do you have yard the dog can stay in the 12 hours you are gone? Or do you plan to come home at lunch to let the dog out?

rottielover · 01-20-2007, 10:09 AM

I am a single mom, was a single mom with a puppy, but I arranged my schedule to accomadate. 12 hours is long even for an adult dog. Is there someone that can let the dog out at lunch, make it easier on him/her when you decide to get it.
maybe a dogsitter, or a friend

Fortune50 · 01-20-2007, 09:00 PM

Thanks everyone for your input so far. I'll keep tabs on this thread. I'm going to give this some careful thought in the meantime, but if I were to give a percentage chance right now on me getting a dog, I'd say there's only a 30% change I'll actually get one...

aero4ever · 01-25-2007, 10:06 AM

I'm single and live alone and have 2 dogs. I'm able to go home at lunch most days and let them out so that helps. Have you done any research on dogs to find a breed that is better suited to your environment?

crazydog06 · 01-25-2007, 10:19 AM

Check your local Humane Society. They have older dogs that are hard to find homes for. I agree that a puppy would be too much work for you. Toy breeds are good to have. Just not Jack Russlles or any of those litlle hyper dog that demand a lot of attention.

babydolwv · 01-25-2007, 12:18 PM

yeah, i agree an older dog would b great for you... I have a young hyper pup (part wire haired terrier/lab) but i am a stay at home mom and housewife. So I am with her all day and can work with her and give her the exercise she needs...but an older more calm dog i think would be great. Dogs are great companions. I know I love having Saddie her with me. Not very often when I am alone, but she barks when she hears noises outside.. Which I love since I am home with the children alone alot.