Breed recs for a long time working dog owner who doesn’t have enough time now.

[Ostryga]

I’ve always had working spaniels (cockers and Welshies) and been without a dog for almost 5 years now.

My house feels so wrong without a dog in it, and I’m even missing the awful teenager stages and all the frustration that brings. That’s how I know I’m ready for another dog

I have a much more involved career now, and am also now a single parent so would be the sole person for walks/training/everything. So I know deep down I just don’t have the time I had before for a spaniel.

Any ideas of a breed with less exercise and mental stimulation needs? Or am I kidding myself and need to wait a few more years until I have less paperwork and more spare time?

Re sue greyhound or lurcher. Really lazy, but loving dogs, don't need much exercise and great with adults and kids. They just need a sofa, and a short walk each day to be happy

When I get too old for working gundogs, I think I might have a papillon. A friend who has several said they are really a type of spaniel, though I am not sure about that. But all the ones I have known have had lots of character, were nicely behaved and didn't yap.

@Spanielsarepainless

When I get too old for working gundogs, I think I might have a papillon. A friend who has several said they are really a type of spaniel, though I am not sure about that. But all the ones I have known have had lots of character, were nicely behaved and didn't yap.

They are a toy spaniel breed

I am going to throw in the suggestion of a basset hound. They are intelligent breeds stubbornly (we prefer independent) but loving calm and with a dog walk or daycare they will be happy. They can be work in the puppy stages to get trained but are so worth the effort. Ddog is almost 3 now and a complete pleasure to have around. Right now curled up with dd2 on her bed as she sleeps and happily snuggled in close for a cuddle.

They have amazing personalities not a day goes past where he doesnt make us laugh. His doggydaycare says the same "he is so funny" his dogwalker who have been with us since we got him says regularly. "Oh I could just take you home with me"

Suggesting this breed as if you are used to working dogs the additional independent streak will be familiar for you but their demeanour is a lot calmer and may suit your lifestyle right now lot better.

@Enko we have a basset hound who will be four this year. Absolutely fantastic breed and so calm and lovely to have around the house.