I have a house but work long hours...so the dog would be left alone with no human or animal interaction. I've never had a dog before, but would like some companionship, Would a dog be suitable ...or should I just get a goldfish!

Well if you can't give a dog alot of attention DON'T get one. Dog's take an extreme amount of work and what if it had to go to the bathroom? If you work long hours you couldn't train it either, it would be into everything!! I agree with the one person, cat's are more likely to be alright while home alone. Also the only training you realy have to with a cat is to teach them where there litter box is and that it's for there restroom use. If you don't like cat's then fish would be perfect all you do with them is feed 'um and claen out there tank once in awhile.

Cat is the best for the working long hours kinda person They prefer to be alone I think, give them some catnip, food, water and litter.. and a sunny spot to lay down.. thats their happy spot