To think that you shouldn't have a dog if it's going to be alone in the house every day?

[perceptionreality]

Next door have a lovely dog. But since they are all out all day, the dog barks and howls all day long until they get home. It sounds very sad and is not pleasant to hear.

I have never had a dog myself though. AIBU?

YANBU if dog is clearly distressed! We have 2 dogs, and they are left alone on the days I work (2 days a week) DH does go home for lunch to check on them. They have run of the secure garden via a dog door and, tho the neighbours tell me the little one barks when anyone come to the house and knocks on the door, they are usually fine, (and neighbour's say they dont mind, as it lets them know when someones about). Leave one on his own, however, and it is constant howling (we found this out when we had to take other to vets after an accident) We were very grateful that our neighbour came and told us, so it will never happen again!
A few years ago, we were reported for leaving them on their own by a former neighbour who had a grudge against us, RSPCA did come, did investigate, and were fine about things, our dogs were obviously happy and not stressed by the situation, so, leaving them whilst at work is not the issue, it is leaving it in a distressed state that is!

Thanks for the advice. I have not heard the dog today - I think the mum may be at home. To be fair - I can see the family love the dog but perhaps they are just unaware she barks when they are out. I will try to find a nice way to mention it.