Award-winning dog trainer and dog behaviourist, Rachel Rodgers at Napo Pet Insurance, said people need to be “realistic” as to whether they can cater to a dog‘s needs.
With more people expected to return to the office full-time, people who got dogs during lockdown could be facing a dilemma.
Owning a dog may not be fair, or right, if you’re expected to spend eight hours in the office and have an hour commute each way, but there are exceptions.
“Leaving a dog home alone for 10 hours a day, with no toilet break or companionship, would not meet their needs,” Rachel told Express.co.uk.
But if you can “find a reliable dog walker to visit during the day”, then the dog will be able to stretch its legs, enjoy the outdoor air, and have a comfort break.
“Office workers have owned dogs for as long as we can remember – so no, returning to the office doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog,” said Rachel.
But if you spend a lot of time away from home, you need to be able to afford dog daycare.
“It’s important to factor in the cost and consider your plans outside of work,” said Rachel.
“For example, if you plan to go to the gym or attend other activities for two hours after work, this could mean your dog is left alone for even longer – potentially leading to boredom or mischief.”
Rachel added: “Dogs need attention, exercise, and love, and it’s essential that owners are in a position to meet all of their needs.”
How long can a dog be left for?
Rachel said: “In an ideal world, dogs shouldn’t be left alone for more than four hours. Like us, they need a break to go to the loo and enjoy some enrichment or entertainment.”
All dogs “deserve and need companionship, love, and affection”, which is why any returning office workers should consider dog sitters, doggy daycare, or hiring a dog walker to break up your dog’s day.
Napo Pet Insurance is the comprehensive pet insurance brand designed to support happier, healthier dogs. Built and run by pet parents, Napo offers super comprehensive lifetime cover from “tooth to tail”. Napo is dedicated to helping pet parents give their dogs the best and healthiest life possible.