Should we get a dog? Novice .

[BrownBootsandBacon]

We would like to get a pet.

We’ve decided against rabbits , cats and rodents and are thinking of getting a dog.

We have 3 DC aged 9, 7and 7.

The older DC has ASD.

Firstly , will a dog suit our situation ?

I work from home 2 days per week but I need to visit clients 3 days per week.

The dog would be alone for 6 hours a day , 3 days per week. Would this be too much ?

Getting a dog walker in or going to kennels is not an option due to the extortionate costs in our area .

We would like a puppy but would also consider a gentle rescue .

The dog must be a small breed, excellent with children and not need tons of grooming or exercise .

Could anyone recommend a breed ?

Or does it seem like we wouldn’t be suited to a dog?

[Wolfiefan]

A cat would suit you much better. An adult rescue is a great choice. And the rescue would be able to match you to the right one. Some cats are more “dog” than others! One of mine comes on a dog walk with us.
Also worth volunteering to spend time around dogs. A shelter might be happy to have you dog walk or try the Cinnamon Trust. Won’t cost you and no long term commitment but a lovely thing to do.
Well done for postponing getting a dog if you can’t find a walker etc. Good to see someone being so unselfish.

[Spidey66]

I think because cats are so independent you don't have to be a 'cat person' to have one.....you can mainly ignore them (as they will you) if you don't like them . Dogs you can't, and caged animals will need attention to keep their cages clean.

[AvocadosBeforeMortgages]

Perhaps consider one of the specific breeds of cat (ie not domestic moggy?) Some of them reportedly have more dog like qualities (NB I know sod all about cats, so do your own research!)

[tabulahrasa]

“Some of them reportedly have more dog like qualities”

I’ve had a Siamese - they’re very dog like, but that also includes a much higher need for company than other cats as well. So not ideal to be left alone for long periods.

[Wolfiefan]

True tabula.
I was just thinking of all the cats we have met in rescue. Some incredibly needy and demanding. Others completely aloof. Just worth knowing that cats can have completely different personalities and a rescue could match you.

[tabulahrasa]

It was more about the breeds that are bred to be more human dependant than differing personalities...

I wouldn’t describe my current cat as needy as such, but she’s sociable and comes for affection at various points through the day, sometimes she’ll even come when you call her, lol. But if we’re out all day and come back in, she’s neither up nor down about it, she might rouse herself to come see us, she might not even open an eye up till she feels like it...

My Siamese was at the front door distressed and yowling at me if I left her alone for more than a couple of hours.

[SheChoseDown]

Why do people want dogs that don't need walking? Does such a dog exist!!?? Seems cruel!

[Wolfiefan]

I would love a Siamese tabula. Instead I rescued two tortie sisters. They are more trouble than any Siamese could ever be.

[damned]

We have a Bengal cat who we joke is a cat/dog hybrid. He is super social, playful and affectionate but will also happily sleep the day away or entertain himself when we're out or busy. He does have access to a cat flap though.

[Scattyhattie]

If its only a year or 2 for the working from Home option I'd personally wait, save up & get pet your interested in, rather than fill gap with another animal that will potentially then add complications for getting a dog & you'd then have both to pay for (small animals initial cost maybe lower but vet fees are aren't really).

If you could afford dog walker/daycare to break it up then 6 hours is OK for many adult dogs. Not all rescues have a no being left more than 4hrs total rule, I adopted my dogs while working full-time & the rescue were OK with me visiting during my lunch hour. You will likely still need to find dog care for family days out.
Some dogs do find being left distressing or get bored becoming destructive/noisy so does depend on individual. Puppies really need someone around to supervise & provide training.

Plenty of dogs are responsibly in rescue due to owners circumstances changing such as work, accommodation, relationship breakdowns, illness etc rather than a traumatic/neglect background.

Maybe look into borrow my doggy or any friends dogs you can take for walks/ days in the mean time.