You're ready if you're willing to put in the effort. My dog hangs out at home while I'm at work, but I take her out in the morning and after work for walks or to the dog park. She gets the run of the mainfloor of my small house. When she was younger, I went home at lunch to let her out and play etc. That pattern went on for about a year I think with a slow build to her being left alone first in a crate then gradually getting more space.
In my opinion, it isn't a huge issue to make the time for your dog but it totally depends on where your priorities are. Don't count on the kids for much though.
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