Shit-zus

Question
I am thinking about gettting a shit-zu thats about 1 years old do you you think itll be okay if I leave it at home from 8am to 3pm.

Answer
Hi Emily

Well done for taking the time to think this through - if only everyone did!

8 -3 is a long time for any dog to be left; four hours is a maximum ideally.  That said, many dogs are left all day and are fine provided their owners are prepared to give them a lot of time, attention, training and exercise when they are home - a big commitment!  It would be great if you could get someone to visit halfway through the day - a neighbour perhaps or a dog walker to let the dog out and check he/she is ok.

It obviously depends very much on the dog as an individual.  They are a fairly low-energy breed so would cope much better than say a Border Collie.  If this one is used to being left all day then it shouldn't be a problem.  If he is not though then I wouldn't advise it - if he develops problems such as toileting/chewing or barking when you are out you will be in no position to fix it as (I presume) you will have to go to work each day.

Best regards,

Lucy