In order to have a well-adjusted dog, you need to make time for your dog.  If your dog does not receive enough time with you, I guarantee he will develop behavior issues, like destructive chewing, digging or nuisance barking. How much time is needed?

This may be the hardest part to estimate. As a general rule, an adult dog will require less time than a puppy, and the time requirements will lessen slightly as you and the dog establish a routine. Different breeds and personalities require varying amounts of time–some dogs require more grooming than others, and some are just more emotionally needy. If you work outside the home and you get a puppy, you will need to come home at lunch to take her out and feed her...or have someone who can. With an adult dog, this will likely not be an issue.

Pet owners surveyed estimate the time they spend with their dogs to be anywhere from 15-35 hours a week. Realistically, some of this time you can be doing other things like, watch TV while you brush the dog, do some training while you prepare dinner, walk the dog on the way out to get the mail.

Time can be looked as 2 types: active time and in company time. Some of the time you spend just in each other’s company can easily be made into active time by using a little imagination. For example, while you are watching TV, play a game of fetch, brush him down, or have a training session during commercials. You have just spent some active time!  There is also nothing wrong with having your furry buddy laying on a bed or the couch while you chill out watching TV.

Finding those few minutes here and there for your dog can really make a difference! You don't necessarily have to have a big block of time - a half hour walk here, 10 minutes training there, 3 minutes playing, 5 minutes just talking to him, some time sitting with him watching TV...it all adds up.