Need some advice - Page 2

It's break. 
I agree that 12 hours is too long in a crate.  A fenced in yard would be ideal, maybe one that goes all the way around the house,  for the protection part.

These doggy doors, are they hard on heating?  Maybe you guys live where it is warmer

It gets pretty darn cold in Kansas, but a good door helps.  It's even better if it's in a separate bedroom where you can close it off and yes Red Sable, it can be hard on the heating bill.

6 hours in a crate is too long as far as I'm concerned! It can be compenstaed for by a visit midday, a dogwalker as others have suggested, or very long walks prior to and after your shift. Personally I woudn't be happy having a dog on these terms. at all. They are such social creatures.  

You can get pretty well insulated doggy doors that have a sort of magnetic seal so the wind doesn't blow in...still, I only use it between the kitchen and the garage and would probably be unhappy with it going straight outside.

I think if it's an every day thing, the OP is going to have to come home at lunch and break the dog. Meaning let it pee and stretch. 

My advice to you is to build him a kennel and run out doors with a roof on it but open all four sides the roof can have an over hang I have posted mine on here but will post it again for you to see
You will have a healthy Dog living out doors He can come into the house at times when you are home But his living quarters would be outside and fed in his kennel and Run
You take him regular walks etc and train him you will have a happy healthy dog mine have always lived outdoors for 60 years Never a problem the youngest dog to pass on was 14.5 years old
Steve1

This is the Kennels and Run for Two Dogs
Steve1

What is everyones opinion on an outdoor kennel?? I live in NY so we have pretty cold winters and hot summers. Will the barking be an issue?? Where will the dog relieve himself?? Should i provide some sort of heat??


Thank you guys(and gals) so much for the feedback and advice...It is very much appreciated. I know that some of my questions may sound silly but please remember that I have never owned a dog before and am just seeking advice. Obviously, the crate is not the way to go. Steve1, thank you for the info and photos of the kennels.

"I also wonder when the poster is going to have time to sleep and exercise a young dog to keep him satisfied and not tearing up everything"

Vonissk,
I admit that on days that i'm working, excercising the dog will be a little rough but I know that i can provide the dog at least 30-45min of excercise in the morning when i get home from work and 30-45min before i leave for work. keep in mind that I only work 2 or 3 days in a row. I only work 12 days a month.

Thank you again
GSRookie