I'm going to be an empty nester and would like to go back to work. How long can I leave my 1 year old german shorthaired pointer in his kennel? He takes naps in his kennel and goes it when we leave. He does really well and seems to like his kennel. I plan to continue our daily 1 hour trip to the off leash dog park for excersize. Please help me not feel guilty for chosing to go back to work. Thanks. :confused: Diamondpnt

Work is a necessity. I hate to see a dog go over 4-5 hours in a crate. Perhaps I base that on seldom having to leave my dogs longer than that. Many dogs are left all day. I always suggest that if you can't make it back over lunch, try to find a neighbor or professional dog walker to give him a mid day break. Also look into doggy day care.