Dog breeds suitable for being left alone for 8 hours typically have independent, calm, or low-energy temperaments, such as Basset Hounds, French Bulldogs, Greyhounds, Shar-Peis, and Chow Chows. Other good choices include Shiba Inus, Bullmastiffs, and Whippets. These breeds often cope better with solitude, but require adequate exercise and mental stimulation before and after the work day.

What dog can I leave alone for 8 hours?

If you're going to be out of the house a lot, make sure you choose a breed that's comfortable alone. Dog breeds that can be left alone include Labrador Retrievers, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, and Corgis (Welsh and Pembroke varieties).

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

Can I get a dog if I work 8 hours a day?

Yes, you can get a dog if you work 8 hours a day, but it requires significant planning, commitment, and ensuring their needs for exercise, mental stimulation, and potty breaks are met through support systems like dog walkers, daycare, or a flexible routine. Adult dogs can often handle 8 hours alone, but puppies, senior dogs, or high-energy breeds need more frequent attention, so choosing a more independent adult dog or older dog might be a better fit. 

Will my dog be ok alone for 8 hours?

How long a dog can be left alone varies based on the age, overall health, and personality of the dog, but 4-6 hours is typically ok for most adult dogs. Many people leave their pets alone for up to 8 hours while they go to work.

Best Dog Breeds That Can Be Left Alone For 8 Hours

Can you have a dog if you work 9'5"?

Yes, you can have a dog with a 9-5 job, but it requires significant planning, commitment, and adjustments like hiring a dog walker, using puzzle toys, choosing the right breed (lower energy/older), and prioritizing exercise before and after work to meet their needs, as leaving a dog alone all day without breaks can lead to issues. While some adult dogs can handle 6-8 hours alone, puppies and seniors need more frequent breaks, and ensuring their physical and mental stimulation is crucial for a happy dog. 

What is the 10 10 10 rule for dogs?

The "10 10 10 Rule" for dogs primarily refers to a puppy potty training method: 10 minutes outside in the designated spot, allowing 10 feet of space to sniff and circle, and staying for 10 minutes of supervision to reward them if they go, otherwise bringing them back inside to a crate for 10-20 minutes before trying again. It can also relate to nutrition (treats < 10% of calories) or general training discipline, but the potty training version is the most common interpretation.

What dog is best for full-time workers?

Certain dog breeds—such as Chihuahuas, Basset Hounds, Greyhounds, and French Bulldogs—are well-suited for busy professionals because they are more independent and require less constant attention, making them ideal for people with demanding work schedules.

Can dogs be left alone for 8 hours while at work?

However, many dogs are able to adjust to being alone for 8-9 hours while you are at work, as long as they have enough space to move around comfortably. If your dog is calm, he or she may take a long, restful nap while you are away, or curl up with your favorite sweater or on the usually off-limits sofa to relax.

What is the best dog for a 9 5 worker?

The Shar Pei, Lhasa Apso, and Doberman Pinscher are not only known for their independence but also for being well-suited to the companionship needs of an older dog.

How long does 1 hour feel to a dog?

An hour for a dog doesn't pass like it does for humans; due to their faster metabolism and perception, a human hour feels much longer to a dog, with some suggesting it's closer to 7 minutes of their time, making a work day feel like days, and explaining their intense excitement when owners return from seemingly short absences. They sense time through routines, smells, and body changes, not abstract clocks. 

At what age is a dog not trainable?

This question is a common one, and the short answer is simple: a dog is never not trainable. While the popular saying "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" might make you think otherwise, the truth is that a dog's age has no bearing on its capacity to learn.

What is the 2 1 rule for dogs?

“The 2:1 crate rule says that for every two hours a dog spends inside their crate, they should spend one hour out of the crate,” explains Lane. “For puppies, especially those still potty training, this is generally a good rule of thumb.

What breed can be left alone?

• Can you leave dogs alone?
• The best dog breeds that can be left alone.
• Chow Chow.
• Greyhound.
• Lhasa Apso.
• Shar Pei.
• Miniature Schnauzer.
• Boston Terrier.

What is a good pet for someone who works all day?

If there's one pet that perfectly aligns with a busy lifestyle, it's a cat. Independent yet affectionate, cats are champions of balance — much like the one you're trying to achieve. They don't demand constant attention. Feed them twice a day, ensure a clean litter box, and they'll be content.

Is it cruel to leave your dog alone for 8 hours?

As your puppy gets older gradually increase the total amount of time you leave them alone. Adult dogs are generally okay on their own for 4-6 hours a day. But, many dogs are good at adapting to being alone for 8-9 hours while you are at work if they are provided with enough space to comfortably move around.

Can I get a dog if I work 8'5"?

You Can Have a Dog While Working Full-Time Hours

It's possible to have a busy job or irregular hours and keep a dog happy. Most adult dogs can spend six to eight hours home alone, although puppies and senior dogs may require more frequent bathroom breaks.

Is it better to crate a dog or leave it free?

If your dog enjoys the comfort of a crate and it provides them with security, it's fine to use it. However, if your dog struggles with confinement and separation anxiety, crating might not be the best choice. Instead, work on teaching your dog how to feel confident and safe when left alone.

What is a good low maintenance dog?

The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Families with Packed Schedules

• Labrador Retriever. Labs remain America's favorite for good reason. ...
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This affectionate breed offers the perfect balance of companionship and independence. ...
• French Bulldog. ...
• Basset Hound. ...
• Beagle. ...
• Golden Retriever. ...
• Pug. ...
• Bulldog.

What dogs don't get separation anxiety?

Basset Hound

Basset hounds with their adorable long floppy ears are a gentle and placid dog breed with low separation anxiety. Although they're known for their distinctive howl or “singing”, when trained well they're generally well-behaved when left alone.

What is the most well behaved dog breed?

Vets and experts weigh in. The most-behaved dog breed was found to be the Labrador retriever, with the worst-behaved dog breed being the Siberian husky. When it comes to following commands, the cane corso ranked as the most behaved breed, while the dachshund ranked the worst.

Should dogs poop before bed?

So, if you typically let them out for potty breaks at a certain time of day, like right after lunch, they'll adapt to this schedule and poop at that time. That said, Smith says it's a good idea to let your dog out first thing in the morning and right before bed.

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