I need advice

[Freedom]

It will also depend on the breed and dog size.

Bichons (since I know about them) have small bladders. They must go every 4 hours. Plus, the breed is a companion animal; they'd go crazy and be quite depressed left alone that long.

Figure you work 8 hours, but have to commute back and forth; will have errands to do (groceries at a minimum). And you will sleep 7 hours or more each night. Not a lot of time left is there? Add in that you will spend time with friends, go out to eat, and that leaves even less time.

[kaycountrygal]

Dogs and cats are a commitment. IMO dogs require more time and attention; I have both. I am always aware of when I need to take LilGirl out for a bathroom walk (Annie is an outside dog) plus most dogs (the ones I've known) like/need to have a human near. I'm sure there are people who work and have dogs but I also think it's hard on the dog to be alone all day.

[wolf_Q]

I work full time...and I have four dogs. I usually work a 7 hr shift but sometimes I end up later its not uncommon for me to work an 8 hr day. Much longer than that would be pushing it though especially for a small dog they generally can't hold it as long. I do feel bad but well I love my dogs like they are my kids and I don't have the luxury of being able to stay home so I don't have a choice. I think they'd still be happier with me even though I work 5 days week then with somebody else. They don't seem to mind at all, and on the days I have off they pretty much just sleep all day. I definitely wouldn't get a puppy, my three huskies I had as pups but my job is a pet groomer so I took them to work with me a lot (every day when they were really young) so they wouldn't have to hold it that long. Not many jobs would let you do that.

[Sowa]

I think a lot of people work full time jobs and have a dog. I agree about not getting a pup if you're not able to be there with it but I'm sure an older dog would love a good home. Especially if it's being rescued from a shelter.

[chocolatepuppy]

I work and I have dogs. I think they're happy. I would think an older dog might be a better choice. There are plenty of them that need homes.

[Snickismylife]

I think a lot of people work full time jobs and have a dog. I agree about not getting a pup if you're not able to be there with it but I'm sure an older dog would love a good home. Especially if it's being rescued from a shelter.

I think you guys are all right if i EVER do get a dog it would be an adult . I cant go to the shelters and look I cry everytime, I am not home enough to have a dog yet I am almost done with school so I will have much more time free than

[luvofallhorses]

First off, welcome. It is not abuse to leave a dog home for 8 hours IMO. People have to work to make a living. I would NOT get a puppy though, it wouldn't be right to just leave a pup in a crate for 8 hrs. I'd go w/ a more older dog that are set in their ways and a less energetic breed like a greyhound or something. But, it would be nice to have someone home w/ them or you can hire a dog sitter if you are worried about leaving them so long.

[Asiel]

I don't think any dog likes to be home alone all day. Maybe you could wait a couple of months, settle in and by then you could maybe find a dog walker who could come in and take the dog for a play session or walk, let it relieve itself and make sure it has water. I wouldn't get a pup though, they need to go out often, need companionship and interaction if it's going to develop into a socialized ,well behaved dog.