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home owner · Jul 25, 2008, 10:41 AM

My dog died recently and after taking a break, I am ready for another one----another Schnauzer like I have had in the past.
I have the opportunity to get a 7 month old female. Housebroken, warm and very friendly. I am concerned with one thing------at what age can this type of dog be left alone for long periods. I am not retired yet and am gone over 10 hours a day. The dog will have access via doggie doors to good ourside areas for relieving themselves and playing and enjoying the outdoors. In the past, I have always had more than one dog so they were able to keep themselves company. THis time it will be just the one dog and I do not want to be unfair to the animal and won't take it on if I think it will be a problem leaving them alone. I do not think I can any longer handle more than one animal at a time. I would welcome any suggestions from Schnauzer, or other dog lovers who have been through this.

starbuck8 · Jul 25, 2008, 11:56 PM

I'm so sorry to hear about your dog passing. Do you have anyone you know that lives close by, or even a neighbors teen that could stop by during the day and take your new pup on a bit of a walk, or play with it for awhile during the day while you're gone?

I think if he is allowed access to outside, and has lots of chew toys and other things to play with, he will probably be fine. Have you got the time to take him on a good walk in the morning before you leave, and again when you get home?

I don't know your financial situation, but you might even look into a doggie daycare a few days a week if that is something that is within your budget. Otherwise, if your dog is well behaved, I'm sure a neighborhood kid would have fun playing or walking with your dog once a day or so.

Good luck! :)

rex123 · Jul 27, 2008, 03:08 PM

I had my dog since he was 4 weeks old, and ever since he was 4 months old we could leave him alone he never messed in the house or chewed anything believ it or not he never chewed anything but toys. However my brothers dog is almost 2 years old and still chews shoes and things even if were gone for 5 minutes. So when we leave we usually leave the TV on(animal planet lol) or the radio so he doesn't feel as lonely. You can also give him one of your shirts or something to lay on with your scent on it so that he thinks you are near.