New job and a dog: how to arrange responsible dog care
, by Michael van Wassem, 4 min reading time
Starting a new job often comes with major changes. Fixed working hours, longer commutes, more days in the office or rotating shifts. For you, it’s an adjustment – for your dog, it can be a significant change. Many dog owners suddenly face the same question: how do I arrange proper dog care when I work? And what is actually responsible?
In this guide, you’ll learn which dog care options are available, when care is truly necessary, and whether a dog can occasionally stay home alone for a full working day.
Why a new job affects your dog
Dogs are creatures of habit. They rely on predictable routines such as walks, feeding times, rest and social contact. When your daily structure changes, your dog notices immediately.
Common changes when starting a new job include:
- longer periods alone during the day
- less consistent walking times
- more stimuli in a short time (before and after work)
- fewer shared rest moments
This does not automatically cause problems, but it does require conscious decisions.
When should you arrange dog care?
Not every dog needs care, but it is strongly recommended in the following situations:
- you are away from home for more than 6–7 hours on a regular basis
- your dog is young, elderly or has medical needs
- your dog shows stress when left alone
- your working hours are unpredictable
- your dog receives too little physical or mental stimulation
Dog care is not just about time — it’s about quality of life.
What dog care options are available?
There is no universal solution. The right choice depends on your dog, your work situation and your living environment.
In-home dog sitter
A dog sitter visits your home to walk your dog, play, or provide companionship.
Advantages:
- your dog stays in a familiar environment
- less stress for sensitive dogs
- flexible scheduling
Disadvantages:
- depends heavily on reliability
- often not sufficient for full working days
- daily use can become costly
Best suited for calm or older dogs and shorter workdays.
Dog daycare
Your dog spends the day at a professional facility together with other dogs.
Advantages:
- plenty of exercise and social interaction
- full coverage during work hours
- structured daily routine
Disadvantages:
- not every dog is suitable for group settings
- can be overwhelming for sensitive dogs
- quality varies greatly between facilities
Best suited for social, stable dogs accustomed to other dogs.
Family, friends or neighbours
Informal care provided by people you trust.
Advantages:
- familiar and often more affordable
- personal attention
- flexible arrangements
Disadvantages:
- not always available long-term
- requires clear agreements
Ideal as a temporary or supplementary solution.
Combination solutions often work best
Many European dog owners choose a mix of options:
- dog care on certain days
- home alone on other days
- working from home when possible
This approach is often more realistic and healthier for the dog than extreme solutions.
Can a dog stay home alone for a full working day?
The honest answer: sometimes yes — but not regularly and not for every dog.
General guidelines:
- adult, stable dogs: up to 6–8 hours
- puppies and young dogs: significantly shorter
- senior dogs: depends on health
More important than the number of hours:
- is your dog trained to be alone?
- did your dog get sufficient exercise and mental stimulation beforehand?
- does your dog have safety, comfort and calm?
An occasional long day is usually fine. Daily long periods alone are not.
Warning signs that something isn’t working
Pay attention to these signals:
- restlessness or destructive behaviour
- excessive barking or whining
- sudden house-soiling
- apathy or extreme hyperactivity
- clear stress when you return home
If you notice these signs, adjustments are necessary.
Why good dog care is responsibility — not luxury
Choosing dog care is not about guilt, but about responsible dog ownership. Having a job does not mean neglecting your dog — it means taking their needs seriously.
Across Europe, conditions differ, but the core principles remain the same:
- sufficient physical exercise
- mental calm
- predictability
- safety
Practical tips when making your choice
- test care options before your first full workday
- introduce changes gradually
- combine care with training and structure
- be honest about what your dog can handle
- adjust if something doesn’t work
Conclusion
Having a job and a dog can work very well — with realistic planning. There is no perfect solution, only a responsible one.
By focusing on your dog’s needs and viewing care as support rather than a last resort, you create calm and stability. For both you and your dog.
