The short answer
Yes, lots of working families have happy dogs. The rule is simple: an adult dog shouldn’t be alone for more than 4 hours at a time (that’s the RSPCA’s guideline), and puppies far less. So the question isn’t whether you work, it’s who covers the middle of the day.
How long can a dog be left alone?
| 8 to 10 weeks | About 1 hour |
|---|---|
| 10 to 12 weeks | About 2 hours |
| 3 months | About 2 hours |
| 4 months | About 3 hours |
| 5 months and over | Up to 4 hours |
These are maximums for a puppy that has built up to it gradually. Start with a few minutes and add a little each day.
A real week
Both parents work and the children are at school, so the house is empty from 7:50 until about 5:30 three days a week. They’re getting a cavapoo puppy.
| First 2 weeksOne parent works from home | £0 |
|---|---|
| Until about 4 monthsA sitter 3 days a week, at £30 a day | £90 a week |
| From 4 monthsTwo half-hour visits a day, 3 days a week | £72 a week |
| If someone gets home at lunchOne visit a day instead of two | £36 a week |
Over a year, that’s roughly £3,700 to £4,700 for cover, more than the dog’s food, insurance and vet bills put together. It’s the cost most families leave out.
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Puppy or an adult rescue?
A puppy needs someone around almost all day for the first few weeks, and frequent breaks for months after. An adult dog from a rescue that is already used to being left for a few hours can be a much easier fit for a working family. Good rescues will match you with a dog that suits your routine and tell you honestly how it copes alone.
School holidays and sick days
- Holidays: book kennels or home boarding early for summer and Christmas. Prices vary a lot by area, so get quotes; our cost calculator starts at £30 a night.
- Back-up: have a neighbour or a pop-in service you can call when a train is late or a child is ill.
- Licences: in England, daycare and home boarding need a council licence. Ask to see it.
Questions
Can I get a puppy if I work full time?
Yes, if someone can be home for the first week or two and you arrange a sitter or several visits a day until about 4 months. After that, a midday visit or walk is usually enough.
Is it cruel to leave a dog while you work?
Not if they’re never alone for more than about 4 hours at a time, get a good walk before and after, and have been taught that being alone is safe and boring.
Do dogs get used to being alone?
Most do, if you build up gradually. If your dog barks, chews or toilets when left, that can be separation anxiety. Talk to your vet or an accredited behaviourist.