We work full time and our Goldie is now 12 weeks old. I was really worried about how he would cope being left alone for 8 hours a day but so far it has been great. My children play with him for at least an hour every morning before school. We feed him breakfast early (5.30-6.00am) and then the last thing I do before I leave is give him some chicken necks or a bone for the day. We get home around 4.30 - 5.00 and again we play with him in the yard for an hour or more. He has a run in the back yard and our yard is seriously dog proofed. During the evening he comes inside and sits with us. So far we have had no chewing / digging / destruction. He has been such a good pup I am kind of amazed. Maybe I am getting a ahead of myself and the destruction will come later! We spoil him with loads of "chewy treats" and we rotate his toys so he doesn't get bored. He is already a much loved member of our household. I am home sick (ish) today and he has loved the extra playtime but has also spent a great deal of the day snoozing!!
I think if you are committed you can work f/t and be a good pet owner you just have to be prepared. Surely it is better to be working and have a pet who is part of the family then to be at home and be neglecting your pet anyway.
