Right from the start - my Yorkie has been home while I worked four 6-hour days. I do have another dog - but my Yorkie is confined to the kitchen and the other dog really has free roam of the house. (I really don't think they pay much attention to one another while I'm gone.) But - when I get home, they are totally excited about getting together to play.
I think the very best scenario is for us to be home with our little dogs - but in today's world - this just isn't going to happen. So - the next best thing is to make them comfortable while we're gone.
My pup has his food, water, bed, toys, a light on, and a radio on while I'm gone. I can assure you that he is comfortable - and because of my neighbors, I know he doesn't cry while I'm gone....never has. And - there is no doubt that he sleeps most of the time I am gone. (To be honest, if I'm home, he lies around the house and sleeps most of the time -- this is just a dog thing!)
You also mentioned that your brother might be there some of the time you're gone. So -- I'm sure your little puppy will be fine.
Just don't spoil him from the get-go. Don't fuss over him constantly - and don't make a big issue every time you leave the house. A lot of the way that you deal with him and your being gone a lot will affect the way he handles it. When I first had to start living mine alone - I left quickly and quietly - we certainly didn't have long tearful goodbyes.
**** And - let's face it - all of our little dogs have different personalities and different temperments and behave differently. My little pup adapted quickly and very well to my having to leave him home alone....but this doesn't mean that all pups will.
So --- Good luck!
Carol Jean |