Pets are a definite no during analyst years?
I know there is practically no time to take care of a pet (more specifically, a dog), during my analyst years; I did the summer internship recently. But they’re just so freaking cute and I love animals. Obviously understand that the animal is priority and I will be responsible.
More so just wondering if anyone has successfully had a pet during this period, whether it be splitting time caring for it with roommates or only taking care of it on weekends?
I've only ever spoken to 1 analyst with pets/animals and she works at UBS for what it's worth
Probably wouldn’t recommend it for a 1st year analyst fresh out of school for a few reasons.
1. The obvious, you’re gonna be working a ton, getting up to speed and the lowest on the totem pole with absolutely zero trust / respect and therefore no ability to push back or control your calendar. You also don’t want to have anything taking away your focus from work during this period.
2. You’re fresh out of school, if you’re like most new grads you will probably want to have a social life… dating, going out late, etc... a dog makes this much harder.
3. It’s expensive AF. Assuming you’re in NYC, the cost of dog ownership is insane. From grooming, to food, pet insurance, dog walker, doggy daycare, random vet bills… it’s never ending. And with a schedule like you have in banking, a lot of that is doggy daycare and dog walkers.
I have one and love him so much and never regretted the decision. BUT, I did it at the tail end of my analyst stint. I had been with my group for 2 years so had a bit more control over my schedule and ability to push-back/leave when I needed. I lateraled into banking so was a bit older and winding down on my going out days and in fact wanted a dog to push me to go out less. I paid extra for a training, lined it up with the holidays so I knew I’d have a lot of time off / remote work for the first few months, had a roommate that worked from home on different days than I so we had good coverage and found an excellent dog walker in my building that just let him hang with her all day for pretty cheap.
It took a tremendous amount of planning and organization and even then it was pretty stressful at times balancing the two. I would say it didn’t get “easy” till he was like 2 years old, but even then still expensive. That said, very happy with the decision and he’s a very happy and healthy pup. I’d give it like 3-4 years and re-consider it.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, having a pet, especially a dog, during your analyst years in investment banking is extremely challenging due to the demanding hours and lack of flexibility. However, it’s not entirely impossible if you plan carefully and choose the right type of pet.
Key Insights:
Dogs Are High Maintenance:
Cats Are a Better Option:
Roommates or Support System:
Alternative Options:
Long-Term Perspective:
Ultimately, while it’s not impossible, having a pet during your analyst years requires careful planning, the right choice of pet, and possibly a strong support system. If you’re determined, a cat or a low-maintenance pet is the most practical option.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/if-you-have-pets-and-work-in-ib-how-do-you-balance-your-life?customgpt=1, How to deal with sick parents while working in IB, Vent Some Wisdom to Incoming Analysts/Interns, WFH in your 20s is career suicide, Retirement Planning for IB Analysts
Balancing analyst hours with a dog is tough, but not impossible—it really comes down to planning and support. A few people make it work by living with roommates who genuinely help with walks and feeding, or by using dog walkers/daycare during long office days. The key is being honest about how much time and energy you’ll realistically have, especially during peak deal periods when you might barely be home.
If you’re set on having a pet, some people start with lower-maintenance options or consider fostering first to test whether their schedule can handle it. Another middle ground is volunteering at a shelter or offering to dog-sit for friends on weekends—you still get animal time without the full responsibility.
Dogs are amazing, but they do need consistency and attention, so it’s good you’re putting their needs first before jumping in.
Maybe a cat that needs minimal attention
Just get a cat that acts like a dog and don’t get a kitten.
why no kittens?
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