Training and schedules are super important! My fiancée and I got our dogs while we were still in college (sorry mom!) and with our busy schedules we knew the only way to do it is to create a schedule for the first couple of weeks and split responsibilities between the two of us - tag team style!
The key is to TIRE THEM OUT. We'd play, run, take them to the dog park (even 15 min. during our lunch break was exhausting to them) and just try to stimulate them as much as possible so that the only thing they'd want to do is nap while we're away. Also, Kongs were clutch! We stuffed with doggy treats and peanut butter and it kept them busy for a while.
Once we were comfortable with how well they're doing (of course there's accidents) then we'd extend our times being away. And of course if dog walkers/friends/family is available for some help, use them! It's seriously like having a kid - you never want to be away for long and you want to make sure they have company lol |