To think that leaving a dog on its own in the house for up to 12 hours a day is not on.

[GetOrfMoiLand]

DP would really like to get a dog. I would like one as well, however we both work full time (I am out of the house from 6.30 til 6pm, DP from 7.30 til gone 6pm). I therefore think it would be really cruel to leave a dog on its own for perhaps longer than 12 hours a day, even if we did have a cat flap and the dog could go in and out of the garden at will. So I have said no dog.

DP thinks not and says there must be plenty of people who work FT and have dogs and doesn't think this is a valid reason to not get a dog.

What does everyone think?

No way should you get a dog unless you can afford to leave it with a dog minder during the day.

Puppies especially need lots of time

Our dog is nearly 9 now and when we are both working she gets a leg stretch early in teh morning, then goes out with a dog walker for 2 hours from about 11 til 1, then after school nanny is home at 3.30. So she is never on her own for long periods

Bil's new Great Dane cannot be left for long periods at all - apparently (and I may have got the wrong end of the stick) but big dogs suffer from something called Bloat, which is like a torsion of the gut which may come on quickly after eating, if it happens you have to get them pronto to a vet. If they are left alone they can suffer an agonising death.

Never heard that before. That is a real undertaking. Thankfully BIL's partner works from home.

What practical proposals does your DH have for engaging a dog walker etc.? (If any?)

Practical proposals?? DP?? Oh know, practical is not his forte, he is the master of the vague plan and 'it'll all come out in the wash' sentiment.