A younger adult dog would be great for you. It's difficult to get through the puppy stage when you are away all day.

Many rescue groups do cat-testing on dogs they adopt out. Plus cats themselves are good at training dogs.

As long as you have plenty of time for the dog before and after work, you should be fine.

I know what you mean about not going right back into elder care. I loved my older rescue dog and wouldn't trade that experience for anything, but I did need a break from it. Good luck!

Pam