13 Best Dog Breeds For Full-Time Workers

Are you a full-time worker looking for a dog that won’t mind spending time at home alone?

There are some dog breeds that have a reputation for struggling badly with separation anxiety.

However, the chronic canine condition can affect any dog irrespective of breed or mix.

Having said that, there are some breeds who tend to do better if they’re left at home alone for a few hours at a time.

In this article we’re going to take a look at 13 dog breeds that are suitable for full-time workers.

Before we get started, we’ll hear from some experts who encourage readers to carefully consider which breed will best fit their lifestyle.

Think About Your Personal Situation

Aaron Fisher, Founder And CEO of Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe

While breed is important, it’s less important than the energy level, age, and disposition of a particular dog, and whether or not that dog is the right fit for a specific individual’s lifestyle/work schedule (also, does full-time worker include working from home?).

For example, a young dog/puppy of any breed is going to require more training time, be more prone to accidents in the home than most older dogs would, so age is definitely an important factor to consider. Also, if someone’s a runner or highly active, he/she should consider a dog that would be great to accompany them on runs when they are home (and a Basset Hound or Pug probably wouldn’t be the best fit for that person).

Conversely, if someone is a couch potato or works from home, and is looking for a low-key dog, a high-energy dog/puppy of any breed, or typically active breed like a Border Collie or Australian Shepherd, probably wouldn’t be the best fit for that person’s lifestyle.

Really, what it comes down to is the dog’s age, temperament, and energy level, and whether or not a particular dog is the right fit for a particular person’s situation.

Go Low Energy

Janice Gunn, Founder and CEO of TNT Kennels And Training Centre

Working full time and your commute add up to a lot of time away home but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog in your life! I recommend choosing a lower energy, small dog for a couple of reasons.

Indoor exercise may be enough for them on those days you had an extra-long commute and the weather is uninviting. They can be taught to use pee pads or litter box trained so they can always have access to a potty area.

Some self-sufficient breeds that do well in this situation include the Yorkshire Terrier, Pug, Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso, Maltese and Miniature Dachshund.

Greyhounds

Greyhounds are a good option for full-time workers because they do not need a huge amount of daily interaction and attention. While athletes, they don’t require much exercise, as long as they can get a few quick sprints in each day.

These dogs enjoy creature comforts like snuggling into blankets and lounging about on the sofa. These are quite tall dogs, so owners should ensure the home is big enough for them and that they have a nice, large bed to relax in!

Suggested by Dr Linda Simon, Consulting Veterinarian At Five Barks

Boxer

Boxers are a third great option for full-time workers. They share many of the same qualities as the other two breeds, including loyalty, intelligence, and a calm demeanor.

However, Boxers are also known for being especially playful and energetic. That said, they can still be excellent indoor dogs if they receive enough exercise.

Suggested by Dr Sabrina Kong, DVM At We Love Doodles

Cocker Spaniel

Fancy and friendly are the characteristics of the Cocker Spaniel. They are very happy to be doing just about anything with their human companions, but alone time is just as good.

Suggested by Leonardo Gomez, Founder Of Try Runball

Basenji

The Basenji is the least barking breed in the world. This dog knows how to stay alone at home or in an apartment, but he needs at least two walks a day to maintain his good physical health.

Suggested by Remi Andrivet, Founder Of Dogs Planet

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a hunting dog, which, although close to its family, remains very independent. Basset Hounds are easy-going dogs that can easily turn into couch potatoes if given the opportunity. Therefore, it is a calm dog that can stay alone quite easily.

Suggested by Remi Andrivet, Founder Of Dogs Planet

Poodle

I’ve found that the best dog breed for full-time workers is the Standard Poodle. For some reason, the Poodle has developed a reputation of being posh or pompous, but nothing could be further from the truth. Poodles are intelligent dogs that can learn any tricks you throw at them, and they even make great hunting dogs.

They are also independent enough to thrive without constant interaction. Anyone with a full-time job away from the home can confidently leave their Poodle at home and know that they won’t get anxious. And unlike many other independent dogs, the standard poodle will happily snuggle up with you when you get home.

Suggested by Ginger Burke, Founder And CEO Of Elegant Furball

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is quite a contented, laid back soul. They do not need a great deal of exercise or outdoor time and this makes them a good choice for someone who has a busy lifestyle.

Most are not prone to separation anxiety or behavioural issues and should cope with being left alone for prolonged times. These dogs are placid and tend to get on well with other pets and children, so do great in busy households.

Suggested by Dr Linda Simon, Consulting Veterinarian At Five Barks

Dachshunds

Dachshunds are the best dog breed for full time workers because they are small, intelligent, and have a lot of energy. They also have a lot of loyalty and will be happy to spend all day with you.

As you work, they will nap and keep you company. This particular breed is a great choice for people who want a dog that will be able to be a companion as it ages. They are very easy to train, but have limited exercise needs.

Dachshunds are known for having bad breath, so you should always take them to the vet for checkups when needed and keep their teeth clean with appropriate dog food and toothpaste.

Suggested by Jen Jones, Professional Dog Trainer And Behavior Specialist At Your Dog Advisor

Chihuahua

What kind of a dog will run, play and enjoy every minute with you? The Chihuahua is a breed that has spunk, spirit and super intelligence.

Suggested by Erin Mastopietro, Founder Of Dope Dog

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and easy-going nature. They are an ideal breed for full-time workers because they are content to spend long hours alone indoors.

In addition, Labrador Retrievers are relatively low-energy dogs, making them well-suited for small homes or apartments.

Suggested by Dr Sabrina Kong, DVM At We Love Doodles

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are another excellent choice. Like Labrador Retrievers, they are intelligent and loyal dogs that enjoy spending time indoors.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are also known for being particularly good with children, which can be a major benefit for families with young kids.

Suggested by Dr Sabrina Kong, DVM At We Love Doodles

Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terriers are the best dog breeds for a working household. These pups do not only have the looks and disposition of a sheep but also the charm to go with it.

This regal dog will be happy to lounge the whole day when you are away at work but will be ready to pounce on you once you return. It’ll be a happy camper when you are not present. When the owners return, all it wants to do is cheer them up with its charming personality.

Suggested by Richard West, Founder Of Puppy Hero

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a small little charmer who will be waiting to spend some quality time with you when you return from a long-day’s work.

Suggested by Leonardo Gomez, Founder Of Try Runball