Hi Kirsty,
Welcome
Your plan sounds great. I did the same thing as you last year (got my puppy on December 28th). He was housebroken in about 2 weeks and we acclimated him to his crate and our schedule...or so we thought.
What we didn't realize was he was suffering from separation anxiety which became really apparent at about 7-9 months of age. He also developed other anxieties like going outside, etc and the symptoms of these intensified as time went on.
My point is, even with the best intentions and forward planning etc., you may end up with a dog who can't stand being left alone even for ten minutes despite all of the conditioning you do prior to returning to work to ensure a smooth transition from the puppys mother to your home.
Things may work out but, in the event they don't, just ask yourself if you're prepared for the frustration, extra cost and alternate considerations which may have to be made in the event things just don't work out.
Many times, my new puppy tested my work ethic, my temper and even my marriage.
I recently stopped working (not due to Teddy) which has resulted in Teddy improving in a lot of areas. Are you able to do this? If not, are you able to cope with the aforementioned issues?
I didn't think I'd be one of those dog moms with the problems I have, but I was and I am and I think I couldn't have continued with Teddy and us both working and pretending it was fair to us or him.
It's just something to think about with real consideration.
Whatever you decide - good luck and feel free to ask me or anyone else anything
