re: Is it hard to raise a puppy? Update 10/10/17

Fenced in backyard and a 2nd pup will solve your problems. Dogs are fine to be outside during the day while you're at work and having the 2nd dog will give the pups companionship while you're gone. Get them a little doghouse to put under the back porch, food, water, and a few doggy toys and they'll be fine. For the 2-3 times a year it might be freezing cold during the day, just make alternate plans to either bring the pups to a relative's house during the day or to leave them inside and have someone stop by midday to let them out for a little while.