Your exercise sounds a bit on the short side for a medium to large dog, and although dogs can be left for up to 8 hours, that has to be built up over time. You couldn't leave a puppy. Would a dog walker be possible, calling in several times in the day for the puppy and cutting down as he matures?
Also, I suggest this to a lot of people in your situation.
For the next month, act like you have an adult dog. Get up an hour earlier than normal, take an hour long walk. Do the same in the evening after work - and when you are not working from home, come straight home from work; no shopping, gym, socialising. Do this every day, without fail, regardless of the weather.
Be aware of the season, and remind yourself every morning that for several months of the year you will be doing this in the cold and dark.
Also put away what you think a dog will cost for food, insurance, vet bill excesses, toys etc, then add 10% because we always underestimate these things.
That will give you a good insight into some of the commitment you will need to make.
Don't think about what a dog will bring to your family, think about what your family can offer to a dog.
Also, I suggest this to a lot of people in your situation.
For the next month, act like you have an adult dog. Get up an hour earlier than normal, take an hour long walk. Do the same in the evening after work - and when you are not working from home, come straight home from work; no shopping, gym, socialising. Do this every day, without fail, regardless of the weather.
Be aware of the season, and remind yourself every morning that for several months of the year you will be doing this in the cold and dark.
Also put away what you think a dog will cost for food, insurance, vet bill excesses, toys etc, then add 10% because we always underestimate these things.
That will give you a good insight into some of the commitment you will need to make.
Don't think about what a dog will bring to your family, think about what your family can offer to a dog.
