I work 4 hours and then home for one hour for lunch then back to work for 4 hours will that be an OK schedule for the new puppy?

And I have a 4yr old cat, what is the best way to introduce them together?

Thanks, Jess

Truthfully, I would not get a puppy while having a full time job, even if I could come home for lunch. Do you add commuting time too? All in all, the puppy will survive but may grow up to be anxious and neurotic. I would crate him while you are gone, partly because of the cat and partly to keep him from using the whole house as a bathroom, and because it's secure feeling. Give him toys and maybe a Baby Ben clock (for the ticking). Better yet, hire a sitter for an hour or 2 here and there.

There are a few concerns with your schedule.

At 9 weeks of age a puppy cannot be left alone for that long. I would also recommend crating him, otherwise he could not only damage your house, or get into something that could harm him, but he and the cat would have free access to each other, and you don't want to do that until you know they can get along.

The rule for crating is one hour per month of age. In other words, your puppy shouldn't be crated (during the day) for more than 2 hours at a time.

Also, at 9 weeks this is crucial bonding time. You need to be there with him, socialize with him, train him, etc.

Is there anyone that can come over twice a day for an hour or so? Someone that can let him out of his crate for a potty break, a little walk, a romp around? That would be the ideal.

As for the cat. Introduce them slowly. Has your cat ever been around a dog before? If not, kitty may not take too kindly to a puppy in the house. Puppies are playful, they nip, they play rough, and kitty will not be left out of that play just because he/she is a cat. Even a mild mannered cat will loose control with a puppy.

It's best to introduce them a little bit at a time. Best would be to have puppy in a crate, bring the cat in, let the cat explore at his/her leisure, let the puppy explore in the safety of the crate. Do this a few times a day. It may take time. I don't suggest letting them free play until you know the cat will tolerate him.

Let the cat lead the way. After all, it was kitties house first. :)

Thank you so much for the help. I live in a duplex with my Inlaws and they are home all day long. They could take him out for an hour or so when I am at work. Will that be enough time ? And I only work 5 min away from my home. Thanks, Jess

I only live 5 min away from work. I can get my neighbor to come and take the pup out for a few until I get home. Thanks you for the Help.

Thanks, Jess