If you are a 9 to 5 worker, does that mean an Aussie isn't for you? The answer is an emphatic NO. Aussies are adaptable, and can live happily by themselves while you work. It is probably more difficult than you being at home all the time, but it can be done. One suggestion is to get two. NOT two of the same age (see my FAQ on that subject). They can enteratain themselves and will not be lonely. Also, make sure they get plenty of excercise. This means perhaps a morning walk, and a nightly run. Aussies need at least 20 minutes of cardiovascular excercise a day (that means full-out funning). Be sure to supply toys that you can rotate to alleviate boredom. Also, free feeding is a good idea, as some dogs like to eat to alleviate boredom. Just be sure they do not get fat. Try not to crate your dog in the time that you are at work. A nicely fenced yard or a kennel enclosure would be a much better idea, and would make self-destruction (chewing, etc) out of boredom less likely.