advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

DH and i want to adopt a dog.

we both work full time, but DH's schedule rotates so he is usually off two days during the week. i'm off every weekend.

we are thinking of getting a dog 1-2 years old. our plan is to go to the shelter with DS one weekend and see how it goes. we're not in any rush. we would also prefer a dog around 30-50 lbs.

i guess my question is - since we won't be home all day, is it okay to crate a dog that size and age for about 9 to 10 hours? or is that not fair? i really do not know anything about crate training, although i do plan on researching and reading about it.

we can also put up two gates in the kitchen, so the dog can be in there. we're putting safety latches on all the cabinets so that won't be an issue.

which would be better for the dog? or does it sound like we won't be home enough?

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

Hey LB how exciting!!!!!!!!
While I think a 1--2 year old *could* last in the crate that long, I think it'd be much less stressful for the doggie if he/she got a little break, that's just a very long stretch to have her crated every day, especially when she's new to your family, she could get anxiety... Of course each dog is different, be sure to ask what they know about the previous owners, did they crate her, for how long, etc.
Also it would definitely be worthwhile to look into having a dog walker come to your place on those days where you're both gone for 9-10 hours? It would help with anxiety and give her a bit of exercise, which will make her generally happier and healthier.
Also with the new baby on the way, I'd DEFINITELY suggest hiring a good trainer (all my contacts are in Queens/Bklyn but let me know if you need a referral for Suffolk) to work with you, DH, and the new dog if you plan to bring one home before baby gets here, they'll give you great tips and strategies for making sure everyone gets along and doggie knows the new baby's "place" in the family hierarchy!

OOOO I'm so excited for you!!!!

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

thanks colette

oh we will most definitely get a trainer, especially because we have a cat as well.

we could hire a dog walker, i would have to find someone insanely reliable though because i am über-paranoid about someone being in my home when i'm not there. that's a good idea though, thanks!

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

Oh I know, you would HAVE to get a referral from a reliable neighbor or someone you trust!!! But there are SOOOOOO many trustworthy ones out there, just ask around a lot with your friends, I'm sure you'll get someone who's great and very trustworthy!!!!

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

Posted by headoverheels

thanks colette

oh we will most definitely get a trainer, especially because we have a cat as well.

we could hire a dog walker, i would have to find someone insanely reliable though because i am über-paranoid about someone being in my home when i'm not there. that's a good idea though, thanks!

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

We used to crate our dog when we weren't home, and he was about a year old when we first got him, and about 40lbs. Although 9 hours is a long time, it won't be everyday, and I see it as 9 hours in a crate in a loving home is better than 24 hours in a kennel.

I think at first you are better off with the crate than a gated area, at least at first.

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

petfinder is a really great website.

I think its def a good idea that you are looking for an older dog b/c it will most likely be housebroken. with a new baby on the way, the last thing you would want to do is the housebreaking. I couldnt imagine with just Katie.

Once the dog is trained would it have free roam of the house? Are you just thinking of temporarily locking him/her up?

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

Re: advice needed on adopting a dog and crate training

I would contact different rescue organizations and see if they have a dog that is house trained. I personally think having a dog crated for 9-10 hours is a long time. I would recommend a dog walker and it will help with housebreaking.