Re: Leaving dog alone

In Reply to: Leaving dog alone
Category:   General Training
Posted by:  David
Posted on:  May 14, 2003 at 16:58:19

: We have a 5 month old Jack Russell. My wife was home with the dog since we got her (when she was 8 weeks old) but now she is back to work full time.

: We will be away from 7:30 - 5:30. I know that is too long a time for the dog to be alone so we have hired a dog walker to come between 12-1 and let her out and walk the dog for an hour. We also take her our for a good run in the evenings.

: With the dog walker, are we okay leaving her alone this long?

Response:

Dear David,

If my math is correct (!), your pup is alone 9 hours a day -- 4 1/2 hours in the AM and then another 4 1/2 hours in the PM. Personally, I think that's a bit long for a 5 month old puppy to "hold it" and to go without physical/mental exercise.

I suggest having the dog walker come in twice a day, at least for the next couple of months or so. I'll add in that some quality time with mom and dad in the morning (a short walk or training session) will keep you all in touch with your growing pup. :-)