Problems and Solutions for "Home Alone" Kerries

by Janet Joers, jjoers@impulse.net
Copyright © 2003 Kerry Blue Terrier Foundation
Based on a question posed at the KerryBlues-L Newslist.

 

Do you work full-time away from home and still want a puppy? Things to consider are:

  • How are you going to housetrain the puppy when you're not there?
  • How are you going to deal with potential behavior problems that may develop in bored puppies (separation anxiety, nuisance barking, destructive chewing, etc.)?
  • How are you going to provide the socialization, mental and physical stimulation, and the training a puppy needs in those few evening hours you're home (the hours when you are most tired, hungry, and maybe stressed out from a full day)?
  • What evening and weekend activities are you willing to sacrifice to care for your puppy?

There are answers, and some people solve these problems, but for most full-time working singles, couples, and families considering a "home alone" dog, a better choice is a mature dog.

Older Kerries, whether acquired through Rescue or a breeder, are more likely to be housetrained, have house manners, less energy to expend, more training, and are better adapted, or amenable to spending time alone. They are far less likely to need crating to stay out of trouble (crating a puppy--or any dog--8 hours a day is not a humane option).

Here are some work-around solutions for those of us in the real world who can't be at home with our dogs full-time (the ideal, perfect world!):

Arrange "doggie day-care" for mornings, afternoons, or full days several times a week. These facilities (which you should screen carefully!) can offer wonderful socialization for your Kerry, mental and physical stimulation, interaction with people, and sometimes even training.

Arrange for a responsible pet-walker or pet-sitter (a credentialed professional, or responsible family member, neighbor, or friend) to come once or even twice a day. When a dog has something enjoyable to look forward to, undesireable behaviors are less likely to develop out of boredom. The exercise, excitement from an outdoor adventure, and the playful interaction with a human all provide outlets for energy, and encourage contented snooze-time afterwards. (A tired dog is a good dog.)

Arrange day-long "play dates" at the home of a responsible friend, neighbor, or family member who owns a dog compatible with yours. Spending the day in a new environment with a doggie pal can provide needed diversion, and provide some of the same benefits as doggie day-care or a pet-sitter.

Take your dog to work several times a week, if that is at all possible. It's amazing how many companies now allow this, and how many Kerries "mind the store" for their owners in retail shops, bed-and-breakfasts, and other owner-owned businesses.

Arrange flex-time at work, obtain permission to work at home part-time, or stagger your hours with your spouse/partner. These arrangements can shrink 8 lonely hours for your dog to 5 or 6 or less.

Arrange standing weekly grooming appointments to provide diversion. While sitting in a crate all day at a grooming shop may or may not be beneficial for your dog, some dogs enjoy the stimulation of other dogs and the bustling activity around them.

Install a doggie door IF your back yard is completely secure and escape-proof, and barking isn't a problem. Providing access outdoors during the day allows your dog to relieve itself, get fresh air, and have something to do. (Not recommended for all dogs, all neighborhoods, or all situations.)

Although NOT a solution for most of us, acquiring another dog (or--yikes! a cat!) can relieve your dog's boredom, but integrating a new pet in the household can create a whole new set of problems. It requires careful monitoring and supervision--something you are not likely able to do if you work full-time. And the only reason to acquire a second pet is because YOU want one (and have the time and resources to commit to it)--not because you think your dog wants one. The suggestions above for giving your Kerry the companionship of other dogs are far easier to change and adapt, less costly, require less commitment, and will give you more time with your Kerry--which is, after all, the whole idea!

Best wishes to all working families in providing the best environment possible for a well-adjusted, healthy, and happy Kerry Blue Terrier.

 

 

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