Can you keep a healthy/happy EM with a full work schedule?

[Elev]

Hi Everyone,

Title pretty much sums up my question!

I am looking into getting an English Mastiff, but I'm afraid I may work too many hours. I have two jobs, one that goes from around 9:00AM to 3:00PM, and then I teach music lessons from 4:00PM to 9:00PM more or less.

I just want to make sure I can properly care for a new puppy.

Appreciate any input you guys may have : )

Thanks!
Erez

 

[moose]

Well that is a long work schedule ! Would you have anyone coming in to let it out for bathroom and play? Have you considered adopting an older mastiff?

 

[Elev]

I could probably spend an hour or two between jobs taking care and playing with it, but I live alone so that would be it : /

I actually haven't really considered adopting an older Mastiff. I guess I'm afraid that he/she wouldn't be able to adapt to my lifestyle like a puppy would.

 

[moose]

Yea its still a long time, maybe friends or someone you could trust? You would be surprised there are a lot of great older dogs out there that are already house trained and past the puppy training stage that would make a fine pet. We just adopted an almost 2 year old EM that has adjusted great!

Here he is
http://www.mastiff-forum.com/showthread.php/962-Look-who-we-found!

 

[mia]

I vote for adopting, I did in July, best thing I have done in ages.

 

[Cody]

I think it would be hard to have a puppy with the hours you work to be honest.
Mastiff's want to be with their people, they do not do well left on their own for extended periods.
They require a ton of work and socialization in the first year, I personally don't think an hour here and there is enough for a puppy.
I would say adopting would probably best suit your needs as far as finding a compatible companion.

 

[Mongo]

I agree that that might be a little too long for a puppy. Im not even sure if a reputable breeder would even sell you one knowing that. Some wont even sell if there isnt someone home ALL day. Puppies need A LOT of attention, play time, socialization and training. These are big dogs and need to be taught their manners.

I work 40 hrs a week and go home during lunch breaks. Sometimes I go to my second job and work all night. Zuko goes to my moms for that... but I think if you had someone to watch the pup for you.... he might get attached to them more and think they are his owner with how much time he would be away from you.

 

[Marrowshard]

My husband and I chose to adopt, mostly because we have busy, erratic schedules that could leave a dog alone for 5-10 hours at a stretch. We brought home an older Bullmastiff in February and she's done a great job adapting to her new home and our two cats. She hasn't had any "accidents" in the house even when we've been delayed and couldn't get home as quickly as we wanted to.

~Marrow

 

[Elev]

Wow thanks for all the input guys! I'm starting to change my mind about adopting... Anyone know any good places in the California Bay Area? : )

 

[Cody]

Here is a few links to some rescues in the area;
http://www.wcmastiffrescue.com/animals/browse
http://www.gentlegiantsrescue.com/f...gentle_giants_and_little_giants.htm#available

 

[moose]

wow I really like bubba on that first link! Looks like there are a couple of EM on that other link too!

 

[Cody]

Lol, I know! Bubba caught my eye as well.