How long can labs be left at home (inside or outside?) during the day?

Question

My wife and I are wanting to adopt a 2 year old lab from a local rescue. We both work, so the dog would be home alone for about 10 hours a day.

Is this reasonable?

We have a big fenced backyard, so it could be outside (with an insulated dog house of coarse for shelter).

The dog would be exercised both in the morning and in the afternoon when we get home. Is this too long (Philadelphia winter weather)? Could a lab stay inside that long? I have read both ends of the spectrum, i.e. "labs are great outdoor dogs" or "you should treat them like a family member."

Any good information would be greatly appreciated.

Answer

You would not be the first or the last labrador retriever owners that need to work all day. Most of us do it, only those that are extremely lucky get to spend all day at home with their labs.

Labrador retrievers do need a lot of exercise and do have a lot of energy to use up during the day. If they do not get enough exercise they could get up to mischief around the house in an attempt to use it all up :)

However, if your lab gets good long walks in the morning and evening and considering that you have a big backyard where he can run about in it should be fine.

I would also buy lots of dog chew toys so that your lab will be entertained.

I would also ask at your local rescue, where you will get your lab from, about the labs routine and exercise needs so that you can see whether it would be a very big change for him.