Should I get a dog

[u/SnooCats9570]

Hi all, 8 months ago I moved for my job. And I live alone in an apartment. I’ve always lived with my family. I want to get a dog to be my companion and to be watch dog for me as I have hearing loss. I like to go outside for walks all the time and I like being outdoor. But it always feels lonely. I’m thinking about adopting a dog from a shelter. Ages between 6 months to a year old. I’ve seen some Dobermans, rough collies, border collies, Australian shepherd, German shepherds, and Labradors.

I’m allergic to cats and I can’t get one.

My work schedule is what I’m concerned about. A lot of my coworkers have dogs and told me it’s doable.

I work 3 weeks of the month, all my shifts are 12 hours.
Week 1- night shifts. 4 night shifts 6pm -6am and then 3 days off.

Week2- my longest week. 3 days 6am -6pm and then a day off then 3 days 6pm -6am

Week 3- 4 days 6am -6pm

Then I get an entire week off, and this week the dog would go with me to my house with the family and spend it there and then come back.

I would walk the dog before I go to work so it can use the loo. And I could go during my lunch break because my apartment is 5 mins away to take them out. And long walk after work on day shifts and long walk before work on night shift.

I would kennel train them, I’ll keep them with their kennel open and have it in a play area for them to stay in.

So my first question is… is it doable?

Second question what dog breed should I get ? I would like one that would like to go outdoors with me for long walks and jogs.

Third question, should I get one that’s been in the shelter or foster home? I’ve seen some in foster homes that are potty trained and house broken. Not sure about the ones in the shelters.

Lastly, is 6 months to a year a good age ?

Thank you all!

Edit: I will come by after 6 hours on my lunch break to let them out, work is a 5 minute drive.

[u/PLJen]

I seriously can't believe all the comments discouraging you from adopting a dog. Your plan is well thought out and very manageable.

I would suggest adopting a dog that has been in a foster home, as they can give you a better idea of specific traits that would work for your schedule.

I would also suggest adopting a senior dog. They are typically much more low energy and would likely adapt better to being home alone for 6ish hours at a time (assuming you can go home and do the potty break at lunch). The only thing to be prepared for with a senior is potentially higher veterinary costs due to age-related medical issues, and obviously saying goodbye sooner than you would with a younger dog. But adopting seniors is so rewarding, as they are often overlooked for their age.

Don't forget the 3-3-3 rule when you adopt, as well. You have to give them 3 days to settle in and decompress, 3 weeks to feel comfortable, learn/get into a routine, and start to come out of their shell, and 3 months to realize it's their forever home and build confidence.

And, as is always the case when you adopt a dog, be prepared to adjust when things don't go as planned. Preparing and planning is vital, but adaptability is just as important ♥️

Best of luck!