We all deserve a good lifestyle, and along with that, we deserve a good companion as well. But sometimes it happens that we are not able to trust any human being, and at that time, we find the same companion in a canine. If you are a canine lover and chances are you are looking forward to getting one, it is mandatory to get well-versed with some factors.
Along with all the basic factors of your lifestyle, including your job, has a major impact on the same. We are all majorly engaged in 9-5 jobs, and having a canine is a responsibility too. Thus, if you are planning on getting a dog at your place, this article is specifically for you. In this read, you will come across all the aspects that a person who works a 9-5 job needs to know before having a canine friend at their place!
Reasons Why Having A Dog While Working a 9 to 5 Job Can be Challenging
Some common reasons contributing to the fact that having a dog along with a 9-5 job can be difficult are as follows:
Think About Your Finances
Finance creates a big role. If you don’t have enough finance available, then having a dog along with a 9 to 5 job is not a good option. Sometimes it happens that you have enough salary for your livelihood only. However, when additional expenses are incurred, it becomes difficult to maintain the same. If you are going through the same hustle and bustle, don’t go for a dog.
Dog Food
Dog food is expensive. You should not feed your dog any low-cost or low-quality food. Along with specific foods, you need to be sure about the fruits and vegetables they can have. Dog food habits and needs are different. If you are not aware of it, then they will suffer from some gastrointestinal issues, which will add to the expense of a visit to the veterinary doctor.
Dog Shelter
Every time you can’t bear the thought of having your dog on your bed, It is important to provide them with a good shelter. Right now, small kennels are available that you can consider for them. But make sure that it does require maintenance as well, and you need to be sure that you have enough time to do it.
Clothing
As the weather changes, it is important to be sure of your clothing. If you let your dog roam around naked, he or she may become infected with ticks and fleas, which can lead to dermatitis and other skin problems. To save them from this condition, be sure of their clothing. But you can’t make them wear the same clothes for weeks on end. It is important to change the clothes regularly, and if that is not possible, you can choose alternate days.
Maintenance
With a dog, maintenance is an important factor. If you have a dog available at your place but have not paid attention to their maintenance, including their health, lifestyle, habits, and so on, then it is just a waste of time. If you have enough time to understand your dog’s mindset and maintain it accordingly, then only get the dog available.
Dog Vaccination
Vaccination is expensive in the case of dogs. When you visit the veterinary doctor for vaccination, they will help you calculate the amount you need to pay. Some vaccinations are required only once in a lifetime, and these too are expensive.
Health Expenses
When you have a canine companion available at your place, it will add to your health expenses as well. You never know when a medical condition will happen, and your dog may fall ill. Be prepared for it because you can not ignore it.
Time to spend with them
After a long, hectic day, a person is so tired that they don’t have enough time to even step outside and do their grocery shopping. If the same is true for you, don’t go for a dog because they deserve time and you have to spend it with them. If you are not spending time with them, they will get aggressive, and it affects your status in society as well because they try to interfere with others’ lifestyles that may be annoying to them.
Cleanliness
Cleanliness is next to godliness as it is important for humans, as it is for dogs. Make sure they are neat and clean in whatever environment they are in.
Mood Swings
Be prepared to handle mood swings in dogs as well because they are so moody that you never know when their mood can change. When they are going through something, they behave like something is biting them, and it makes you feel annoyed as well. But you cannot ignore it because paying attention to it is really very important.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance is also available, and you have to take it. The cost of the pet insurance policy depends on the policy you have chosen. It will add up to an extra expense, and you have to do it. In some cities, there is a restriction that a pet owner needs to get the pet insurance on the same day that they adopt the dog. It will be helpful in protecting you from the cost of treating the pet in case they suffer any injury or meet any accident.
Can Adopting A Dog Affect Your Job or Career?
Adopting a dog may affect your job or career, or maybe not. It entirely depends on a lot of factors. The following factors influence this decision:
Flexible working hours
If you have flexible working hours, then having a dog will not have an effect on your 9 to 5 job. This flexibility lets you spend some time with your dog and understand what they need.
Work from home
If you are a freelancer or engaged in work-from-home jobs at that moment, having a dog will not affect your 9 to-5 jobs. You are right in front of them and can cater to all their needs. Work from home opportunities gives individuals the time to look at a lot of aspects of their job.
You are an old employee at the office
Being an old employee comes with a lot of perks. If you are an old employee, then the company will provide you with some benefits, and you can easily manage your time to spend with your dog.
With new jobs, having a dog is not an option
If you have recently started your job, we do not suggest you have a dog. In the beginning, there is a lot you might be going through at your workplace, and if you have taken one more responsibility, it will make you feel irritated. To save yourself from this irritation, try to keep your schedule as simple as possible.
Note: Some individuals do not have any problem with having many responsibilities. If you also fall into the category of people who are ready to have responsibilities all the time, you can simply manage to have a dog with your 9 to-5 jobs as well. But if you are someone who requires some “me time” as well, do not go for it.
Things That Can Help With Caring for a Dog with a Full-Time Job
If you are not ready to drop your dog with a full-time job, some options are there that can help you out. This includes:
Find a dog-friendly office
Look out for the office where you can take your dog along. Some places where you can have them are listed below. But understand that you have to train your dog to adjust to the office surroundings because if they start barking, it will disturb the office ambiance.
Use Dog Walkers
Dog walkers are also available, which are helpful in taking your dog for regular runs and walks. Although, you would have to spend money to hire professional dog walkers.
Use a Dog Speaker
A dog speaker is a device that will be helpful for all dog owners. You can give it a voice by typing in or recording whatever you want to say to your pet. Just play it around your pet so that they can consider it as you and behave decently in your absence.
Find Doggy Daycare
Doggy daycare options are also available, which you can go for. Here you will be able to find pet sitters who will take care of your dog.
Take an hour-long lunch to walk your dog
If you want to take care of your dog, try to take an hour-long lunch to walk with it. This walk will make them feel energetic and happy as well. You can also include some fun activities during this time.
Workout With Your Dog
Morning time is the best time, and there is no doubt you can spend it working out with your dog. When you both work out together, it will give you a sigh of relief that you are spending time with him.
Make a Timetable
As a dog owner, it is important for you to plan your time as well. You cannot believe things as they are. Try to spare some extra time for them after work and gossip with them.
What Dog Breeds Are Best for People Working Full-Time Jobs?
Fortunately, some dog breeds are available that you can have with you while working full-time jobs. Let’s have a look!
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound usually stands between six and eight inches tall and weighs about thirty pounds, making them a medium-sized dog. The best part is that they have no problem being alone as they love to nap on the couch the whole day.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are often seen as large, athletic dogs. They are also good at roaming around the house or apartment all day long. Their owners will be happy as they have an active lifestyle and are perfect companions for people with jobs.
Welsh Corgi
This breed typically has a medium-sized body with short legs and a long head. Welsh Corgis are very clever, but they do need daily exercise. Be sure to walk your Welsh Corgis twice per day for at least 20 minutes each time to prevent obesity.
French Bulldogs
The French Bulldog is a breed with a friendly and loving nature. It’s been the most popular breed in America since 2013. Plus, he’s a great companion because of his personality, which is very easygoing and laid-back. In general, they are very relaxed dogs. At this moment, he’s simply enjoying some downtime on his own.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are a popular choice for families because they’re loyal and energetic, which makes them perfect for spending time outdoors. They also provide the daily exercise that many people need to be happy and healthy.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terriers are an excellent choice for your pet, and they will be a loyal companion for years to come. With their small stature and happy-go-lucky personalities, these dogs will always put a smile on your face. But be sure to take them for two walks regularly to prevent them from developing obesity.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are large dogs that are gentle, loyal, and friendly. They have a relatively low energy level when compared to other large breeds, so they’re perfect for people who live in smaller homes or apartments. The best part is, their temperament is calm, making them an ideal dog for families with young kids. Hence, if you are working for 9–5, there will be no problem with them.
Pug
Pugs are small, compact dogs with a lot of personalities. It is very easy for you to care for them, and they also require minimal exercise sessions. They have a friendly, playful nature that makes them ideal for families with children and busy schedules.
If You Are Too Busy at Work, Then What is The Alternative to Owning a Pet Dog?
If you have a hectic schedule, alternatives are also available that can work for you. These alternatives will be helpful for you in every case. These are as follows:
Don’t adopt puppies
Having a hectic schedule will not allow you to have a puppy. Puppies require the utmost care, and you need to be available for them for more than 16 hours.
Adopt senior dogs
Senior dogs can also be an option for you. Senior dogs do not require that much care and attention.
Train Your Dog
Always choose a dog that is ready to be trained. You can train them for your absence as well. Dogs are very obedient and listen to everything their master is saying.
You Can Adopt a Cat
Dogs require more maintenance than cats. Therefore, if you do not have sufficient time available to devote to it, then you can simply go for cats.
Look for Other Domestic Animals
Some other domestic animals are also available that you can have at your place, like rabbits, birds, and so on. Simply check out the pet list and get them.
Get a Pet Sitter
If you have no issues with finances, you can simply have a pet sitter as well. You can look out for consultancies that are providing Julius with helping hands.
Conclusion
Having a dog along with a 9-5 job comes with a responsibility, and as a dog owner, it is important that you are ready to take on the responsibilities. As we have discussed all the factors, keep them in mind and then get one. If you have the slightest doubt about having this responsibility, wait and think about your decision again. Pay attention to everything, including your lifestyle, expenses, finances, and atmosphere, and then get one available at your place!
Frequently Asked Questions about Adopting a Dog while Working 9 to 5
Can you leave a dog at home alone for six hours?
Leaving a dog home alone for 6 hours and then resting depends on the breed and age of the dog. An adult dog can be left alone for 4 to 6 hours per day. But the manner in which you have trained the dog also has an impact on it. Chances are you have treated them with a lot of attention. At that time, it will be difficult for them to stay alone for long hours.
Can dogs stay home for 8 hours?
Dogs can stay at home for up to eight hours if their master is present. But if you think of leaving your dog alone for 8 hours at home, this is not a good option. This will make them feel annoyed and aggressive. In most cases, dogs with small bladders due to starvation die.
Is it OK to leave dogs alone overnight?
In general, it is not a safe option to leave a dog alone overnight. 4 to 6 hours is enough. If you are leaving your place for longer, try to get a pet sitter available who can take care of them.
Can I have a dog if I work 12-hour shifts?
If you work 12-hour shifts, don't get a dog at your place at all. This will be troublesome for both of you. In most cases, the dog owners are not spending time with them, which makes them feel alone, and they become aggressive. As a result, they start barking unnecessarily.
Can I leave my dog alone for 3 days?
Leaving a dog alone for three days is one of the biggest mistakes you will make. Dogs should be left alone for 4 to 6 hours at a time. Many reasons are there which do not let you go for this option because they will not eat anything in your absence and due to which they may die. Instead, you can have a pet sitter available for them.
What's the longest time you should leave a dog alone?
The longest you should leave a dog alone is 6 hours. The rest depends on the breed you have and the manner in which you have trained them. Some dogs have the habit of staying alone for up to 10 hours, but this is not the right way to treat them.
Is it cruel to keep a dog indoors all day?
Yes, it is cruel to keep a dog indoors all day. It is important to take them out for a walk so that they can have an encounter with nature and breathe in the fresh air. It also helps them feel happy.
Is it better to have 2 dogs if you work?
Having two dogs, if you work at the same time, comes with pros and cons. Chances are they will both not feel alone in each other's presence and your absence. But this is not the case with every breed. Thus, be sure that the breeds you are getting are not very aggressive. If one breed is aggressive and the other is calm, this will be a dangerous combination to have.
Can I let my dog roam free in the house?
Yes, you can let your dog roam free in the house until and unless they are not making a mess of the surroundings. If they try to disturb the surroundings, then it is not the right option.
What breed of dog does not mind being alone?
Basenji, “the barkless dog,” is an independent dog, and they don't mind spending time alone. Some other breeds include French Bulldogs, Whippets, Maltese, and some more. But they can be left alone during the daytime only.Should you get a dog if you live alone?
Yes, you can adopt a dog if you are living alone. But understand that it comes with responsibility and that you need to take care of them as well. If you are getting a dog just to have a companion and are not interested in taking care of it, then don't go for this option. Instead, you can look out for cats.
Where should I keep my dog while at work?
If you are working from home, you can simply use a crate and let them stand in it. But if you are in the office, try to provide them with a shelter where they can stay in your absence.
Can you leave your dog in the backyard while at work?
You can leave your dog in the backyard, but in your presence only. If you are leaving them unattended, they will mess up the surroundings and may cause inconvenience to others as well. Therefore, do keep them safe. Don't leave them alone in the backyard when you are at the office.
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