[aweitzm1]

Hi All,

I have to say I am learning a lot from browsing this forum. I am in the process of adopting a yorkie. Tomorrow I am going to visit a bonded pair yorkie that is being fostered for possibly adopting them.

They are 3-4 years old and about 10-12 pounds each.

I wanted to get opinions on leaving yorkies alone while working full time or going out. I was talking with a friend today who has a Husky and she is very against me getting a dog because I am single, work full time and go out may be 1-2 nights a week if that. She feels its wrong for the dogs to be alone that long approximately 10 -11 hours if I come straight home and maybe longer if I go out after work. In the wintertime I rarely go out and mostly stay home.

My set up will be to walk them in the morning and when I get home. I will either expen them or gate off my kitchen area. (Once I am comfortable they will have the run of the house) I am going to wee wee pad train them, have a dog bed and a crate, treats, food and water. All the necessities that they need. Also they will have each other to play with.

I am wondering if I am being cruel be leaving them alone for that long as my friend believes. How do others handle having a dog working a full time job and a social life? I would prefer not to get a dog walker if I can help it because I don't want someone I don't know in my apt. However, I will get one if I find it is needed.

I specifically looked into rescuing a yorkie because they are a smaller breed and can be fine in an apartment. I guess I am slightly doubting myself now that my friend thinks I am not capable of caring for a dog.

I would appreciate any advice or encouragement.

Thanks