I need help in deciding what to do with our medium-size dog. Is rental housing dog-friendly? Our dog is almost 4 years old, and we will be in China for up to 3 years, then maybe off to Russia for 2 years before we return to the US. I'm having a hard time with the thought of leaving him with someone here in the US, but my husband thinks our dog would be miserable in China. He just spent a month in Shanghai--so he probably has a more realistic opinion. What's your experience if you brought a dog with you to Shanghai:?:

It all depends on where you will be living. Downtown highrise, no way. Villa complex with dog walking space, no problem. We left our dog in the States the first year, then brought him over once we saw that it was no big deal. Many people bring their dogs. The only issue is doggie-care during all of those trips you will be taking! There is only one real kennel, and it is very inconvenient. The key is finding a reliable Ayi who enjoys the dog.

Oops- just saw that you will be living in Qing Pu???? I'm guessing you will have plenty of green space, but that is so far out, you will be really stuck for the kennel issue. They will do pick-ups and delivery for a fee, but the kennel could easily be 1.5-2hrs each way from Qingpu. Just a thought.

Thank you! Jinqiaoteresa. I think I might have our dog stay with a friend for a while to further evaluate once we settled in China as you did. That seems to be a reasonable solution at this point.