Key Point
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The best dog breeds for single people are usually small, low-maintenance, and have lower energy levels.
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The seven best dog breeds for single people include the French bulldog, English bulldog, Chihuahua, Scottish terrier, Goldendoodle, Shiba Inu, and basset hound.
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To keep your pup mentally and physically engaged, provide chew toys, treat dispensing toys, and an interactive puppy camera, enroll them in doggy daycare, and hire a dog walker to take them out for walks.
If you’re a single individual who works all day and comes home to an empty house, you may wonder if your lifestyle suits a furry companion. Many responsible dog lovers face this same conundrum. Fortunately, many dog breeds are perfect for working individuals. With current advanced technology and pet services, you don't have to worry about your pooch stuck at home all day.
This article explores the best dog breeds for single people, including those low-maintenance and hypoallergenic, and provides tips on keeping your pup happy and healthy while you earn a living spoiling the little friend.
Is It Okay to Let Dogs Stay Home Alone All Day?
Every pet owner has those days when they have to stay late for work. However, is it okay to leave them cooped up at home all day? The answer depends on a few different factors.
Breed Matters
The breed of dog you have determines how well they handle staying inside your home all day. Generally speaking, larger breeds are less suitable for spending extended alone time in an apartment. Large herding breeds may act out and cause havoc at home if they become bored. Smaller breeds tend to do better since their energy levels aren't as high.
Age Matters
Even though puppies are undeniably adorable, they require constant attention and training. With proper socialization and training, most puppies become confident adults that may stay at home for extended hours.
Temperament Matters
Breeds that easily suffer from separation anxiety and crave constant attention may not be a good option unless your workplace allows bringing doggos to the office (or if you work from home). Independent breeds that thrive on having their own space may be a better option.
Still, each dog has a distinct personality. If you notice signs of distress, such as excessive barking or whining while they are home alone, you may seek out alternative arrangements on days you need to be out of your home.
What Do Dogs Do When Their Owners Are At Work?
Like many pet owners, you may wonder what your pup does all day when you’re at work. While some dogs are content to nap, others may be more energetic and explore the home. Regardless of your dog's personality, they have different needs while their owners are away.
Bathroom Facility
It’s never a good idea for a dog to hold their bathroom needs for too long. Although young dogs may retain their urine for up to eight hours, puppies, smaller-sized breeds, and senior dogs cannot safely and comfortably hold it as long.
It’s also unhealthy for dogs to hold their urine or excrement for long durations on a daily basis. They may risk developing urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and kidney failure. According to BondVet Clinic, "voiding urine is a natural defense against UTIs, and holding in the urine limits that defense."
Exercise and Entertainment Needs
A tired dog is a happy, good dog. Before going to work each morning, bringing your dog out for a walk helps ensure they get the necessary exercise. Let them explore the surroundings. Mental stimulation and fresh air help them relax throughout the day while you work.
Food and Water
Humans become "hangry" when they are hungry for too long. The same thing happens to dogs. When your pooch becomes hungry, they may start tearing your apartment apart. Instead of coming home to complete chaos, leave abundant food and water for the pup. Even when you don't make it home on time, your furry friend will be okay.
Seven Best Breeds for Working Individuals
If you struggle to find the perfect dog that fits your busy lifestyle, don't worry. Here’s a list of the seven best dog breeds for a single, working person to help narrow your search options:
French Bulldog: Best Dog for Single Females
The French bulldog loves being with everyone. This breed is extremely easy to train due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please. They are compact-sized and have extremely short fur, making them one of the best dog breeds for single females who don't have much time dedicated to grooming their pets. These little pups don't bark much and they love cuddling with you like a baby.
English Bulldog: Best Dog for Single Man in Apartment
English bulldogs are loyal and affectionate despite their grumpy faces. They remain quiet while you're at work. When they’re alone, they turn into lazy bums that are happy to sleep throughout the day. They typically don't require much exercise and may even refuse to go for short walks on a rainy day.
Chihuahua: Best Dog for Single Female in Apartment
Chihuahuas are the perfect breed for single females living in an apartment. They have tons of energy but due to their small size don't need as much exercise as bigger breeds. While they provide plenty of entertainment, they’re also wonderful lap dogs that enjoy lots of cuddle time. If you worry about shedding, choose the short-haired Chihuahuas over the long-haired Chihuahuas.
Scottish Terrier: Best Non-Shedding Dog for Single Man
The Scottish terrier may be your perfect choice if you’re looking for a cute breed that does not need much maintenance. These small bearded pups are hypoallergenic, and their wiry coats shed minimally. Whether you want some cuddle time or playtime, these pups are up for the task.
Goldendoodle: Best Dog for Single Working Female
These golden teddy bears are sweet and gentle. As a hypoallergenic breed, they require minimal grooming so you don't have to worry about having a lot of hair around your home. The goldendoodle is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a breed that doubles as your exercise buddy. They’re full of energy and love having a purpose. After spending the day away from home, you’re always going to greet an eager pooch ready for both playtime and snuggles.
Shiba Inu: Best Dog for Single Person in Apartment
Shiba Inus are small and independent, making them the perfect companions for single apartment dwellers. They’re alert and loyal, yet good at entertaining themselves when you’re busy or away at work. Compared to cute breeds requiring frequent grooming visits, Shibas are the best choice if you want to stick to a tight grooming budget.
Basset Hound: Best Small Dog for Single Person
Consider a basset hound if you’re looking for a lower-energy dog who loves to be by your side but doesn't want to be overly cuddly. These long-eared pooches are calm, laid-back, and don't require much exercise. Although they need regular brushing, their coat is extremely short and doesn't shed much. Much like the English bulldog, bassets are couch potatoes by nature but still alert and protective of your home when you’re away.
Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained Throughout the Day
No matter the breed, every dog needs physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. A bored dog may become destructive and develop behavioral problems.
Here are some tips to help keep your fur baby entertained while you're at work:
Provide Plenty of Chew Toys
Chew toys and treat dispensing toys are a great way to keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated. Before leaving your dog alone with these toys, ensure they’re safe and don’t have pieces that could get lodged in your dog’s throat.
There are also interactive toys available to entertain lonely pups. Different brands of automatic ball launchers, food puzzle toys, and puppy TV are available to keep your dog occupied.
Install a Puppy Camera to Check on Your Pooch
Installing a puppy cam in your home is an excellent method to check in on your fur baby while you're away. You get to see if they're doing something naughty or are happy as a clam. Some interactive camera models also allow you to talk and interact with them from your workplace.
Enroll Your Dog at Doggy Daycare or Hire a Dog Walker
Dogs thrive on socialization. Enrolling your pooch at a doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker to take them on regular walks is a wonderful way to ensure they get enough physical and social interaction. This is especially important for high-energy breeds and breeds that are prone to separation anxiety.
Time to Find Your Perfect Pooch
Choosing the best dog for a single person is an important decision requiring a lot of thought and research. Thinking about your lifestyle, living environment, budget, and the type of personality you want in a pup are just some factors to consider.
If the dogs on the list do not align with your preference, many other breeds may provide a better fit. Even if you choose a higher-maintenance breed that does not completely mesh with your lifestyle, many services are available to help you keep your furry companion entertained and healthy.
After all, the only true requirements they need are your dedication and your love for them.
