>The reason why I haven't got a dog (as I had all my youth) is for that reason - I think it's sad to leave a pack animal alone for long periods when at work.

I agree. I was thinking of maybe getting 2 dogs - one for me and one for my wife, so at least it didn't have to be alone all day. I think that a lab and a shih tzu would have a grand day together in a kennel outside in beautiful weather.