The Best Dogs for Working People

You’ve been a dog lover your entire life. Unfortunately, as a busy professional, you can’t imagine bringing home a four-legged friend anytime soon. Yet many working people make the mistake of getting dogs that are prone to separation anxiety.

Dogs are social, loving animals that enjoy being with their owners. But just because you may be out and about for much of the day doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a pup. Here are 10 low-maintenance dog breeds for those who are constantly on the go.

Basset Hound

Let’s start with the most obvious one. Believe it or not, the Basset Hound was originally bred for hunting small game. Don’t let that fool you, though, as this dog loves nothing more than taking naps on the couch. Your Basset Hound will have no problem being home alone, especially as he gets older.

Greyhound

Greyhounds are often regarded as a large, athletic breed. That said, they are also content napping inside. Greyhound owners get the best of both worlds — their dogs can keep up with an active lifestyle (long walks, running, etc.) and they don’t mind being left inside for long periods of time.

French Bulldog

There’s a lot to like about this breed, including an easygoing demeanor. As with the aforementioned Basset Hound and Greyhound, the French Bulldog will use his time alone to relax and snooze. Plus, how can you not find those ears adorable?

Welsh Corgi

A medium-sized breed with short legs and a long body, Welsh Corgis are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal. Just make it a priority to walk your Corgi twice a day, as the breed is prone to obesity. Both Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis can adapt to country or city life.

Golden Retriever

If you have a family, we’re willing to bet that a Golden Retriever is at the top of your list. But is it really a smart choice given their energetic nature? In short, the answer is yes, as Goldens will be happy as long as they have a loving owner/family. There are few dog breeds more loving than the Golden Retriever.

Bullmastiff

Take one look at a Bullmastiff and you’ll know why the breed has been trained as guard dogs. Much like Golden Retrievers, Bullmastiffs look forward to quality time with their owners after a long day. They also have a fairly low energy level compared to other large dogs, so you shouldn’t have to worry about them while you’re at work.

Pug

Good luck saying no to this face! Busy families and 9-to-5ers will love coming home to this friendly and loving breed. Pugs are always looking for someone in the house to please yet require minimal exercise to stay healthy.

Boston Terrier

Looking for a smart, spunky pooch that won’t mind being alone for hours at a time? Then you may want to consider a Boston Terrier. The breed is friendly, easy to train, and should maintain a healthy weight with two short walks a day.

Labradoodle

A hypoallergenic breed, Labradoodles are smart, sociable, enthusiastic, and loyal to their masters. According to Dog Reference, “Labradoodles have the energy of a Retriever and are equally devoted to their work as Poodles.” You won’t feel guilty about leaving them at home for a while, either.

Chihuahua

We saved the longest living dog on the list for last. Chihuahuas enjoy their independence and make good watchdogs. Bustle suggests getting two Chihuahuas if you’re away for long stretches of time, as they’re less aggressive in pairs.

A home of your own for you and your dog

Maybe you already have a four-legged friend and the two of you are tired of living in an apartment. On the other hand, perhaps you and Fido have outgrown your starter home. In either case, you want to work with a lender who has your best interests in mind.

Here are some home mortgage options for dog owners and non-dog owners alike.

FHA home loans

Tired of paying your landlord’s mortgage but don’t have much saved for a down payment? An FHA loan requires as little as 3.5% down and a minimum credit score of 600. Learn more about FHA home loan requirements and see if this program makes sense for you.

VA home loans

The VA loan makes it easy for veterans and active-duty military to become homeowners. Qualified borrowers benefit from no down payment, no mortgage insurance, and no prepayment penalties. It’s also worth mentioning that VA loan limits will be eliminated in 2020.

Jumbo home loans

Ready to move into a larger home with a more spacious backyard for your pup? A jumbo loan is a financing solution for higher-priced homes. You can even use this non-conforming mortgage to finance a second home or vacation home. 

Thinking of buying a home? Consider these 8 home-buying myths