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‘I’m a canine coach – do not go away your pet dwelling alone for this lengthy’

If you’re faced with the reality of heading back to the office full-time after working from home, you may be wondering how your pup will cope

Parson Russell Terrier dog feeling tired, desperate and sleepy, lying on a charcoal grey sofa at home
Dog owners must be ‘realistic’ about their pet’s needs(Image: Moment RF/Getty Images)

A dog trainer and behaviourist guru has dished out some real talk for pet parents: be “realistic” about your ability to cater to a pooch’s every need.

With the inevitable return to the nine-to-five grind, Rachel Rodgers from Napo Pet Insurance warned that the post-lockdown hound high might hit a snag. If you’re chained to the desk for eight hours each day with a lengthy commute tacked on, your pet might not fancy the long, lonely hours.

“Leaving a dog home alone for 10 hours a day, with no toilet break or companionship, would not meet their needs,” Rachel said.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. If you can “find a reliable dog walker” to give your dog a midday leg stretch and toilet break, then it might just work out.

She added: “Office workers have owned dogs for as long as we can remember – so no, returning to the office doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog.”

Sad-looking Bernese Mountain Dog in a dark living room, looking out of a window with bright sunlight shining on its face. In front of the dog are three candles and two plant vases, all on a window ledge.
Dogs can get bored and cause mischief if stuck indoors for too long(Image: Getty Images)

But she’s not pulling punches: affording doggy daycare is key if you’re often away.

Considering plans outside of work, such as gym sessions or social gatherings, means factoring in your pup’s alone time, reports the Express.

“It’s important to factor in the cost and consider your plans outside of work,” said Rachel.

“For example, if you plan to go to the gym or attend other activities for two hours after work, this could mean your dog is left alone for even longer – potentially leading to boredom or mischief.

“Dogs need attention, exercise and love, and it’s essential that owners are in a position to meet all of their needs.”

How long can you leave your four-legged chum solo?

Sad-looking brown dog leans against a white window, with its brown paw resting on the window sill. It is looking out into the outdoors.
Dogs should not be left indoors for more than four hours(Image: Getty Images)

Rachel pointed out the importance of not leaving dogs alone for extended periods, saying: “In an ideal world, dogs shouldn’t be left alone for more than four hours. Like us, they need a break to go to the loo and enjoy some enrichment or entertainment.”

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She highlighted that all canines “deserve and need companionship, love, and affection”, suggesting that office workers returning to work should ponder over options such as dog sitters, daycare or employing a dog walker to sprinkle a little fun into their pooch’s daily routine.

Napo Pet Insurance is the comprehensive pet insurance brand designed to support happier, healthier dogs. Built and run by pet parents, Napo offers super comprehensive lifetime cover from “tooth to tail”. Napo is dedicated to helping pet parents give their dogs the best and healthiest life possible.