Hi All
I was hoping someone would be able to give me some advise on getting a new dog. I have 2 young boys 8yrs & 4 yrs who are desprate for a dog, Especialy Golden Cocker Span. I have read up on this breed and they seem  to have a good nature. Although the kids would like a dog, I must admit I would also like one but have never had a dog before, So would be making a big commitment. We have 1 big problem! I myself work during the day, ( Although 2 days are at home) And my wife works part time, But this is also during the day, If we had to get a dog, The dog would be left on its own for a max of 7hrs on some days, In anyones past experience, Would this be ok, Unfair or would the dog get used to it. I don't want to get a dog if its going to be unfair. All comments welcome please.

Ty

Gkrg.

No dog should be left for more than 4-5 hours maximum, and a puppy much less than that. You'd need to get someone to come in and let the dog out at lunchtime. A puppy would need a mid-day feed, play, cleaning (because it will have messed everywhere) etc.

Hi. Were new dog owners, we got our 12 week old Cavalier puppy 4 weeks ago and wouldn't know what to do without him now but it is hard work at first - very similar to bringing home a new born human baby! The longest I have left him for is 3 1/2 hours which was yesterday as my husband had a day off work and we went Christmas shopping but I was very anxious and couldn't get home fast enough to make sure that he was ok, which indeed he was! I would say leaving a new pup for 7 hour stretches wouldn't be fair but perhaps if somebody would be prepared to devote an hour of their time in between to feed, toilet and play him or her that should be ok. In my opinion, new puppies are very demanding but so rewarding, the love you feel towards them is amazing - unconditional, like the love you feel towards a new baby......wouldn't change it for the world. My friend has a 2 year old male cocker spaniel and he is delightful! Very good with children and so loving!

good luck

Hayley x

You certainly can't leave a pup alone for 7 hours so would need to make pupsitting arrangements. Plus even the sweetest and calmest natured pup will be demanding of your attention and time - there's no short cut to housetraining, for example.  Although my preference is to have a dog from puppyhood I "inherited" my cocker spaniel at the age of 6 and he was a loyal and wonderful companion plus he was quite happy to be left at home on the couple of days a week that I had to be working away from home. Although I still wouldn't have left him for as long as 7 hours without a break to stretch his legs. So have you considered an older dog who might need rehoming?

Hi
Thanks for getting back to me........ I have got to admit 7hrs alone was a bit over the top, may be 5hrs,,,,,,,but thanks for the feed back. I do realise that even 5hrs I would need a puppy sitter. still thinking about it.
gkrg1@blueyonder.co.uk