rott-pei

My dog is now in the apt for approx 10 hours a day while I work. I may start working longer days next week. (11-12 hour days including 1 hour RT drive) He's always excited when I come home and I take him out right away. He's never at the door with his legs crossed, lol, and normally walks around the whole building before he picks out a spot to pee. Should I be worried about the longer work days? He gets fed, poops and pees before I leave every morning. Thx for any advice.

Ama

Generally, it's best for a dog to go out every four hours at max. Of course, they could hold it for longer-but it's not healthy for them to do so. (the only time they can and should hold it for longer is at night time/when sleeping)

I'd suggest on the days where you work long shifts that you have someone(close friend or family member) come over to take him outside so he can relieve himself, every four hours or sooner if you prefer.

Or you could leave him at some place(doggy day care) during your long shifts. OR you could hire someone to come and take him outside when you're at work(a pet sitter or something of that sort)

katydid

I'd also be concerned about how long a doggie can actually "hold it". I don't know how good you are about detecting the smell of dog pee but some dogs and cats will find an out of the way place to relieve themselves.

You'll pick up a stack of newspapers or some such one day and it'll be crystally and soggy yuuucccck. Someone coming in just one walk a day and you do it morning and night is a good idea.

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Monstermom

They can hold it for much longer than what's comfortable for them... Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also cause health problems.

If Ama's suggestions won't work, perhaps you can find some acquaintance's teenager who'd be willing to walk the dog for a small sum? That way you're still not relying on a complete stranger, and your dog gets relief... The amount of time you leave him now already sounds like too much to me, and I wouldn't recommend extending it further.

DeeLind7

rott-pei, I'd have to agree with everyone's responses. It really is too long for a dog to wait. Check your area for a pet sitter. My Niece has one that she uses when she travels. She has 4 cats, and has someone come twice a day. I'm not sure of the price though.

techie

I think they can comfortably wait for longer than 4 hours if a full grown adult.
techie

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Maltese_love

It really depends on the dog. Of course, age and training is always a factor. Older dogs (like seniors) and pups generally have the biggest issues holding it in. Mikey holds it in for 11 + hours if we are not home. Yesterday he was alone all day while I was at a concert and he held it in incredibly well. He usually doesn't go that long, but if we're out he holds it. He gets very embarrassed if he has an accident in the house and I don't even remember the last time he did.

It really would depend on the dog. Yours should be okay. Although if this is long term I would also suggest finding someone to perhaps take him/her out.

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Kaos

I agree with other responses. There is a big difference between how long a dog can physically hold on and how long it is ethical to expect a dog to hold on on a regular basis. Hire a dog walker or look at daycare.

vagreys

Another option is to make your own lunch/meal and use your meal break to go home and let your dog out, yourself. Your dog gets a tiny bit more time with you, gets let out at a reasonable point, and you save money. We try not to let our hounds go more than 4 hours without a break, if possible.

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rott-pei

I did find a neighbor that will come in while I'm at work. It's only temporary, but I will deal with it as it becomes necessary. I really don't have the $ for dog walkers/doggie daycare etc and I work too far to come home at lunch. I'm good for now. I will need to deal with it in the future again. Thx for all you advice.