How to choose a dog . . .

Cherry Blossom

How does a person go about choosing a dog? I have a sort of a shortlist - load of options, any of which I will be perfectly happy with in the long run but for some reason it doesn't seem to make the decision making process any easier!

Rescue vs Ethical breeder
Restricted breed vs gundog vs terrier vs hound vs other
Size, coat maintenance and so on
What do I actually want to do with it?

I'm going to have to get little pieces of paper out and make lists of pros and cons. The problem is I'm not bothered about maintaining coats, sheding, even what I want to do with it because I will adapt to suit the dog and get on with the rest of my life whatever I end up with. I know what I don't want, but have no clue how to decide outside of that. Does anyone else have this problem? :rolleyes:

SophieSakura

I don't really have that problem I have a little list in my head of a few breeds I definitely want to get someday!

theghost

You may think you know what you don't want, but you may find that's just what you end up getting. I was never fond of Jack Russels and always said they were the last dog I'd have until I went to a rescue centre to find a companion for the eldest dog and fell in love with and adopted a three-legged Jack Russell cross.

Shanao

I'd say I was a good twentyfour months trying to decide on what kind of dog I wanted. All I knew was that I had always had a softspot for Giant breeds so wanted to go with one of them. I'd say I spent at least six months 'getting' a great dane, but eventually i started to contact a few different breeders of different dogs and it wasn't until last October that I had finally made up my mind when I met my pup's parents. What I ended up with certainly wasn't what I thought I would, but I couldn't imagine having any other dog now.

Cherry Blossom

theghost wrote: »

You may think you know what you don't want, but you may find that's just what you end up getting.

I'm sure I know what I don't want I don't want a couch potato not being one myself, there are a few breeds that don't appeal to me, a few I wouldn't touch because I think it's a travesty that they exist in the first place and a few that have so many health issues and are so common I have no wish to inadvertantly promote the breed any further as a person who will have the dog 'out and about' a lot. A giant/very big dog wouldn't be the best companion for my current dog and I would prefer to own my own house with what I would deem a big enough garden before I would even consider a giant breed and that won't happen in the forseeable future.

It's good to know I'm not the only one though

Whispered

Like you I knew we'd adapt to whatever dog we ended up with. We knew what we didn't want and outside of that, we fostered until we just couldn't let one go. Our priorities in order were: 1. Rescue 2. Not tiny 3. a mutt. We ended up with Harley. Then stopped fostering for 2 years, thinking it wouldn't be fair on Harley, but started again recently and he's adapted no problem. It might be something you could think of trying.

It's not an ideal option for many people, but it worked for us and we helped a few others along the way. But other people have different priorities. Eg you might need to avoid breeds commonly "known" to be difficult to control offlead as it may be around horses? We didn't need to take any of that into account.

Shanao

Actually the fostering is a really good idea especially when there are so many pedigrees in rescue now. We fostered a doberman and a st bernard, and they were two breeds I had been considering, but after the few weeks that we had them, I decided against them. It'll give you a taste of what the breed is like at least.

TooManyDogs

I've ended up getting my 6 dogs for various reasons

- 1st dog was a stray and just stuck
- 2nd dog we wanted to be a medium sized bitch with enough energy to keep up with number 1
- 3rd dog was a large dog so I could compete in large agility cos I got addicted to agility with numbers 1 & 2
- 4th was a puppy cos I'd never had a puppy, and another large dog for agility
- 5th was a failed foster, hubby simply couldn't let go but out of 30 odd fosters only having 1 failure isn't bad!!
- 6th was because I wanted the challange of training a deaf dog and with any luck competing in agility with her and proving disabled dogs are just as good!

So no clear pattern other than they're all rescue dogs and all mutts. If I was choosing again it would definitely be dogs who could compete in agility so that rules out some breeds I really like .Like AJ there are some breeds simply don't appeal.

Cherry Blossom

Does anyone have any decent links to sites that tell you what you should consider when getting a dog?

Fostering isn't an option while I'm still here basicly because mother dearest would never agree to it unfortunately. As soon as I'm not here I'll have a landlord to consider, I'll also be at work 8 hours a day, 4 hours at a time (flexible working hours) so probably still wouldn't be the best environment for a foster so I'm fairly sure I'll have to rule out that option.

mymo

So you're looking for a medium size, active dog breed?

Springer or springer cross would be my thoughts with your working hours. They can be very energetic and will just snooze once given a good walk, so suit the 4 hr at work times. Great companions and will go anywhere with you, loads in rescues too.

Collie or collie cross would also be good, needs bit more stimulation than springer(but should be fine if well exercised) but similar otherwise. Also loads in rescues.

Both fairly healthy breeds, and plentiful, you could have your choice (only problem is stopping yourself from taking them all home).

caseyann

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

How does a person go about choosing a dog? I have a sort of a shortlist - load of options, any of which I will be perfectly happy with in the long run but for some reason it doesn't seem to make the decision making process any easier!

Rescue vs Ethical breeder
Restricted breed vs gundog vs terrier vs hound vs other
Size, coat maintenance and so on
What do I actually want to do with it?

I'm going to have to get little pieces of paper out and make lists of pros and cons. The problem is I'm not bothered about maintaining coats, sheding, even what I want to do with it because I will adapt to suit the dog and get on with the rest of my life whatever I end up with. I know what I don't want, but have no clue how to decide outside of that. Does anyone else have this problem? :rolleyes:

Add to your list are you high energy person or low energy person.What dog personality suits your needs and you will suit theirs.
If you get a high energy dog and dont walk it run it every day you are going to be sorry.
Another thin long hair is a night mare and dog hairs everywhere.

Try this out
http://dogtime.com/matchup/start

caseyann

My top five dogs


Anatolian Shepherd Dog
or Anatolian Shepherd Dog mix
Why?
Bold, calm, and rugged, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog fiercely protects his own.

Black Russian Terrier
or Black Russian Terrier mix
Why?
Developed by the Soviet Army, the Black Russian Terrier is the perfect working dog.

Doberman Pinscher
or Doberman Pinscher mix
Why?
Noble and athletic, the Doberman Pinscher is a courageous guardian.

German Pinscher
or German Pinscher mix
Why?
With the energy and drive of all working breeds, the German Pinscher also displays the love and devotion that make him an outstanding companion.

Great Dane
or Great Dane mix
Why?
Very large but very gentle, this is truly a great dog.


And what happens to be one of my favourite breeds the pincher's .

Cherry Blossom

mymo wrote: »

So you're looking for a medium size, active dog breed?

Springer or springer cross would be my thoughts with your working hours. They can be very energetic and will just snooze once given a good walk, so suit the 4 hr at work times. Great companions and will go anywhere with you, loads in rescues too.

Collie or collie cross would also be good, needs bit more stimulation than springer(but should be fine if well exercised) but similar otherwise. Also loads in rescues.

Both fairly healthy breeds, and plentiful, you could have your choice (only problem is stopping yourself from taking them all home).

Funny story - spaniels and collies along with most toy breeds, dalmations, poodles, boxers and jack russells are the ones that don't really appeal . Therefore I haven't really looked into them.

I'm now thinking - doberman, some sort of gsd cross (with a smaller dog), japanese spitz, sammoyed, sheltie, or some description of hound.




I'm going to end up with a working springer aren't I? :pac:

caseyann

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

Funny story - spaniels and collies along with most toy breeds, dalmations, poodles, boxers and jack russells are the ones that don't really appeal . Therefore I haven't really looked into them.

I'm now thinking - doberman, some sort of gsd cross (with a smaller dog), japanese spitz, sammoyed, sheltie, or some description of hound.






I'm going to end up with a working springer aren't I? :pac:

Springers are amazing dogs,along with retrieval they are great for beaches and running all sports with you.Swimming etc..
But also its the training and time you put into any dog.
Doberman are wow dogs to my personal favourite and GSD to.
I would go up and check out your local rescue centers and get a feel for the dogs around there.
They do usually try to match the dog with the owner.

Cherry Blossom

caseyann wrote: »

Add to your list are you high energy person or low energy person.

The clue is in the username The vizsla eventually got crossed off the list as possibly being a little more than I could be bothered to deal with every single day :P

caseyann wrote: »

Try this out
http://dogtime.com/matchup/start

I tried a few of those things but just keep ticking little boxes that say - not a consideration and getting 200 results

mystika121

I never seem to get to pick a dog - they pick me!

Mine are all recues that were in dire need of help.

mymo

AH, well if I'd seen that list first I'd say Sheltie, definitely.
Great dogs and they are quite healthy (and gorgeous, and perfect size for hugs:D)
My second choice would be the Japanese Spitz, my friend has one and she is the sweetest little thing(also my daughters fav).

I'm afraid I'm hopelessly gone on the Tibetan Terrier, I'd have 10 if I had the money to keep them all, the best dogs ever, I even kept my fella in full coat for a while but he's trimmed now and easy to manage. The only problem is he's mad as a hatter and has two speeds, sleeping and full speed ahead. Will cope with 10 min walk or go for 5 hours at a time, very clever and playful, but hates to be alone. As he proved today you can never trust their training, for months now he's come back to me every time he's been called no matter what or who he saw, then today he chased a lady with two dogs for a play, ignored me completely:rolleyes:thankfully her dogs were delighted with the game.

There was a gorgeous Dobbie (chocolate)bitch up for rehoming on irish animals and I think a male too.

Cherry Blossom

I just did that thing and I got this list!

caseyann wrote: »

My top five dogs
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Black Russian Terrier
Doberman Pinscher
German Pinscher
Great Dane

mymo wrote: »

AH, well if I'd seen that list first I'd say Sheltie, definitely.
Great dogs and they are quite healthy (and gorgeous, and perfect size for hugs:D)
My second choice would be the Japanese Spitz, my friend has one and she is the sweetest little thing(also my daughters fav).

I'm afraid I'm hopelessly gone on the Tibetan Terrier, I'd have 10 if I had the money to keep them all, the best dogs ever, I even kept my fella in full coat for a while but he's trimmed now and easy to manage. The only problem is he's mad as a hatter and has two speeds, sleeping and full speed ahead. Will cope with 10 min walk or go for 5 hours at a time, very clever and playful, but hates to be alone. As he proved today you can never trust their training, for months now he's come back to me every time he's been called no matter what or who he saw, then today he chased a lady with two dogs for a play, ignored me completely:rolleyes:thankfully her dogs were delighted with the game.

There was a gorgeous Dobbie (chocolate)bitch up for rehoming on irish animals and I think a male too.

I already have a terrier that doesn't come back so it would be quite nice to have something that will! :pac:

I still not convinced on the Dobbie, I'm afraid I might be a bit too soft . I'm going to look into the springers a bit more. I think I'd def. prefare a male.

Is there any truth in the story that long haired males get urine stains unless clipped?

ISDW

caseyann wrote: »

My top five dogs


Anatolian Shepherd Dog
or Anatolian Shepherd Dog mix
Why?
Bold, calm, and rugged, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog fiercely protects his own.

Black Russian Terrier
or Black Russian Terrier mix
Why?
Developed by the Soviet Army, the Black Russian Terrier is the perfect working dog.

Doberman Pinscher
or Doberman Pinscher mix
Why?
Noble and athletic, the Doberman Pinscher is a courageous guardian.

German Pinscher
or German Pinscher mix
Why?
With the energy and drive of all working breeds, the German Pinscher also displays the love and devotion that make him an outstanding companion.

Great Dane
or Great Dane mix
Why?
Very large but very gentle, this is truly a great dog.


And what happens to be one of my favourite breeds the pincher's .

Hmmmm, either we have very, very similar personalities, or they send the same 5 dogs to just about everyone, thats identical to what came up for me.

Cherry Blossom

mystika121 wrote: »

I never seem to get to pick a dog - they pick me!

Mine are all recues that were in dire need of help.

As well as the fact that I won't be at home 8 hours a day, I already have 3 horses fitting this description that take up huge amounts of time and 4 very young kids visiting regularly and vice versa. So in doggy terms something that can easily slot in would suit me, my current dog and the new dog better than something in need of a lot of rehabilitation. Realisticly it's just not something that would be feasable in my case.

Whispered

I got the same list....

annascott

If you get a small or medium sized dog, once he/she is bathroom trained, you could always take him/her with you to work in your car. (provided there is shade to park in when it is sunny) that way, you can let him out for bathroom breaks during the day. I do that with my little companion, who by the way was a little surprise and nothing like the dog that I had planned to get. After a shaky start where I spent the first few weeks looking for another home for her (she was a present, also a rescue puppy and 'challenging' to say the least!) we bonded and within six months I loved her as if she was my own child. Now, 5 years later, I still love her more than words can say. We get along extraordinarily well and she never puts a paw wrong. Her loyalty and intelligence are amazing and I feel priviledged to have her in my life each day. You get out of them what you put in. If you train them each day with love, encouragement and reward , they will grow to trust you unconditionally and in turn be a wonderfully loyal companion.

Don't get too hung up on a breed. Go for personality.

Good luck.

AS

Officer Giggles

dogbreedinfo.com helped me a great deal when I was looking at what dog to get, they have a find the perfect dog tool aswell which might help

mymo

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

Is there any truth in the story that long haired males get urine stains unless clipped?

Yes there is, it depends on what you feed and the dog, some foods I have tried made it worse, presume its to do with ph of urine. My dog is mostly white and gets a slight discolouring around that area, just a little pinkish tinge to the hair there. Its just a bit at the tip, I wouldn't worry about it.

pH

I have 2 spingers myself, and I'd recommend a working Springer for anyone.

Mine love to exercise, they'll run for an hour a day easy, then they like nothing more in an evening to snuggle on the couch and watch TV. If you like playing with dogs then their retrieval instinct makes for lots of fetch.

Their sense of smell is good too (you see them used as sniffer dogs all the time), I hide a scented ball around the house to let them find it.

In general they have a very placid nature, while like all dogs they might bite if provoked, they tend to back down and flee.

On the down side ...

They shed!
They can be quite needy (but this is may be entirely down to me being soft)

Here's a nice list of available spaniels -
http://www.irishanimals.ie/spanielsetters_homes.html


Awwwww

kylith

First I thought about how much space I had. Not much so a small dog was necessary.
I thought about how much time I had. I work, so decided to get two dogs to keep each other company.
Then I thought about what kind of personality I'd like. I knew that a dog that was glued to me 24/7 and couldn't do anything without my approval would drive me mad (although I kind of see the appeal now!). I grew up with terriers, and I love their personalities. They're also perfect in terms of size and exercise requirements.
Then I got on to a rescue about fostering for a while to see how we got on. That's how Rosie and Tootsie wound up at my door. I failed horribly at fostering, renamed them Rani and Tegan and they've been grinding hair into my carpet for 3 and a half years now.

I think the most important thing is exercise requirements. If you want to hike for hours a Shih Tzu won't be right for you, likewise if you just want a stroll around the block a Husky isn't a good choice. Energy levels are much more important than space; if a dog is well walked then it doesn't matter if you don't have a garden because it'll just sleep, similarly if it's not exercised enough then an acre of a garden won't stop it from being hyper.

Chris_Heilong

caseyann wrote: »

My top five dogs


Anatolian Shepherd Dog
or Anatolian Shepherd Dog mix
Why?
Bold, calm, and rugged, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog fiercely protects his own.

Black Russian Terrier
or Black Russian Terrier mix
Why?
Developed by the Soviet Army, the Black Russian Terrier is the perfect working dog.

Doberman Pinscher
or Doberman Pinscher mix
Why?
Noble and athletic, the Doberman Pinscher is a courageous guardian.

German Pinscher
or German Pinscher mix
Why?
With the energy and drive of all working breeds, the German Pinscher also displays the love and devotion that make him an outstanding companion.

Great Dane
or Great Dane mix
Why?
Very large but very gentle, this is truly a great dog.


And what happens to be one of my favourite breeds the pincher's .

I think this is rigged, look at my result.

kylith

Chris_Heilong wrote: »

I think this is rigged, look at my result.

I got
Portuguese Water Dog
Standard Schnauzer
American Water Spaniel
Clumber Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel.

It's pretty good, there's 4 breeds there that I'd quite like. I'd put the Irish Water Spaniel before the Portuguese or American though.

Cherry Blossom

I did it again and just changed a few answers and got:

German Pinscher
Portuguese Water Dog
Standard Schnauzer
American Water Spaniel
Brittany

kylith wrote: »

It's pretty good, there's 4 breeds there that I'd quite like. I'd put the Irish Water Spaniel before the Portuguese or American though.

I don't think its very reliable, I still have the german pinscher but there's a list down below of dogs that are not recommended which include the other 4 I got last time and the reason I shouldn't get them is all the same!

To the question "What size dog are you considering?", you answered "Any size is fine", which makes the (insert relevant breed) a poor choice.

This isn't one of the answers I changed :P
:rolleyes:

richymcdermott

I didnt choose my dog , my dog choose me. being a awesome 2 years since

kylith

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

I don't think its very reliable, I still have the german pinscher but there's a list down below of dogs that are not recommended which include the other 4 I got last time and the reason I shouldn't get them is all the same!

I absolutely agree with you there, it's certainly not reliable. I'd never take a website's word for what dog I should get. Those types of quiz can be good for getting some kind of short list, but there's nothing like talking to someone who owns the breed, or fostering for a short while, to get real-world experience and opinions.

Discodog

Dogs are what you make them, not what their breed supposedly dictates.

All three of mine arrived at different times. It was always an instant decision as they were found as strays. I do not know their histories but two had clearly never been kept indoors. Whilst all three are very different breeds & their personalities vary, they all have the same confident, laid back & easygoing nature. Their character's are very similar & reflect how I react with them.

Dogs are amazingly adaptable. They cope with new situations & new companions really easily provided that we show them how to interact. There must be a rescue in your neck of the woods so why not try out a foster ?.

Hellrazer

My next dogs either another Lab or Shiba Inu--always loved the Shiba`s.

Im also quite partial to Labradoodles--hate the fact that they are being advertised as "designer breeds".Having met a few their personality is just great and I love the look of them.

There is also a strong movement for them to become a recognised breed with a few Kennel clubs around the world seeking recognition.

However I`d never buy one from a puppy farm--I dont think Id buy one over here to be totally honest as Im of the view that the majprity of breeders breeding these are not reputable--Im intelligent enough to know what to look out for when Im purchasing any dog from even a so called reputable breeder but if I found a puppy for rehoming or for free I`d seriously consider trying the rehoming route again.

belongtojazz

I'm seriously considering getting another Springer, they are such fabulous dogs. Even with his many issues my big guy is still an absolute pleasure to be around. Watching him run through a field as happy as the proverbial is one of lifes joys

They are a mad breed but I do recommend them. Given what I know of your lifestyle it sounds like a good match

lrushe

Discodog wrote: »

All three of mine arrived at different times. It was always an instant decision as they were found as strays. I do not know their histories but two had clearly never been kept indoors. Whilst all three are very different breeds & their personalities vary, they all have the same confident, laid back & easygoing nature. Their character's are very similar & reflect how I react with them.

Dogs are amazingly adaptable. They cope with new situations & new companions really easily provided that we show them how to interact.

I completely agree with this. I have 3 dogs, a Rottweiler, a Chihuahua and a Japanese Spitz, you probably couldn't get 3 more different breeds if you tried yet they all have similar personalities, all respond the same to me, have all been trained the same way and all fit into their own little niche in my house. I put this down to the fact that I don't see breed, I see dog and adapt my life to their needs.
For example my Rottweiler would need more exercise and mental stimulation than my Chihuahua so when I walk them my Chi general goes off sniffing and doing her own thing at her own pace while my Rottie would be constantly running, jumping and fetching after her tennis ball as a reward for doing some training commands both their needs are being met at the same time.
As for my favourite breeds, it would be a head to head with the bully breeds and the wolfy (looking) breeds, GSD, Mals, Husky, Spitz etc.
Although saying that my next dog ( along way down the line) will be a rescued greyhound

Shanao

your top 5 personality matches

• Akita
  or Akita mix Why?
  The bold and intelligent Akita shows unequaled loyalty to his family.
  
  
  This breed is an especially good match for your responses to these questions: "What size dog are you considering?", "How much do you exercise?", "What arrangements are you planning to make for your dog during a typical week day?", "What's your best guess at describing your future dog parenting style?"
• Alaskan Malamute
  or Alaskan Malamute mix Why?
  Dignified yet playful, the Alaskan Malamute is a working dog who thrives when exercised regularly.
  
  
  This breed is an especially good match for your responses to these questions: "What size dog are you considering?", "What's your best guess at describing your future dog parenting style?"
• Anatolian Shepherd Dog
  or Anatolian Shepherd Dog mix Why?
  Bold, calm, and rugged, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog fiercely protects his own.
  
  
  This breed is an especially good match for your responses to these questions: "What size dog are you considering?", "What arrangements are you planning to make for your dog during a typical week day?", "What's your best guess at describing your future dog parenting style?"
• Bernese Mountain Dog
  or Bernese Mountain Dog mix Why?
  The Bernese Mountain Dog is a handsome, gentle giant.
  
  
  This breed is an especially good match for your responses to these questions: "What size dog are you considering?", "How much do you exercise?", "Which comes closest to your idea of a satisfying Saturday morning?", "What kind of amusement park ride best describes the energy in your home?", "What arrangements are you planning to make for your dog during a typical week day?"
• Black Russian Terrier
  or Black Russian Terrier mix Why?
  Developed by the Soviet Army, the Black Russian Terrier is the perfect working dog.

I dunno about it being unreliable. I never believe these thing but i answered it all truthfully and my top result was the akita!! Which is quite frankly, the breed I'm pretty sure I'll have from now. And the mal and anatolian are dogs i want to get down the line. Surprised cos I usually get the newfie as my first dog in these things

Cherry Blossom

I know this thread is a bit of a golden oldie at this stage but I always like to see posters coming back with an update, so I'm affording the same courtesy.

I'm at the end of a 40+ waiting list for a Sheltie from a first class breeder in the UK. I believe I may be the only person that will take a pet/agility quality male so it depends what comes out of her next few litters. Failing that I have a few other possibles on a short-list and am going to look into (the somewhat elusive) Sheltie Rescue in the UK a bit closer to the time though I'm not sure how comfortable they may be with a rescue leaving the country.

I have a strong suspicion no. 2 will be followed by an Irish red, or red & white setter. I've become very interested in the Irish red & white Setter out-cross program being undertaken as a joint venture between the IKC and the breed club, so will be doing a lot of digging into that. It's highly unlikely that there will be another 2 years between no's 2 and 3 .

Mymo - you seem to have a talent for matching people with breeds, you should start charging people for the service

mymo

Thanks AJ, hope you get a great dog, shelties are great fun. (had to re read the thread to see what you were thanking me for:o)

I just tried that match up thing and got a bit of a shock, 1st Anatolian shep, 2nd Dobbie, 3rd German pinser, 4th Mastiff, 5th Neapolitan Mastiff.

While I love all dogs and am fond of the Dobbie in particular, I wouldn't have any of those breeds, also I ticked the medium size box, so I'd hate to see what was a large.

I am currently trying to figure if I should go fro number 3, but think I may wait a while, have a 3 and 2 year old at the mo, don't want to end up with them all old together. (really want another Tibetan though, may change my mind)

Oh and I really wish people would listen in real life, in last few months 3 people I know have handed in dogs to rescue that I advised them not to get as they wouldn't suit them, but they got them anyway.

kylith

mymo wrote: »

I just tried that match up thing and got a bit of a shock, 1st Anatolian shep, 2nd Dobbie, 3rd German pinser, 4th Mastiff, 5th Neapolitan Mastiff.

While I love all dogs and am fond of the Dobbie in particular, I wouldn't have any of those breeds, also I ticked the medium size box, so I'd hate to see what was a large.

I just redid the test, ticked the 'medium size' and 'walk frequently' options and one of the breeds it gave me was a Bullmastiff, which is definitely not medium and, afaik, is nowhere near active enough for me.

Cherry Blossom

mymo wrote: »

Oh and I really wish people would listen in real life, in last few months 3 people I know have handed in dogs to rescue that I advised them not to get as they wouldn't suit them, but they got them anyway.

Have spotted a Sibe in the free ads this week 'for sale'. There are a few things in the ad that lead me to believe I know this dog. The dog was bought as a replacement for the previous dog (can't recall the breed, but in no way similar). Again no thought was put into it but I was still surprised as the owner seemed a completely genuine person who had his best interests at heart. I'm most surprised by the fact that the dog is for sale and not for re-homing!

*sigh*

mymo

Yep 2 of these dogs were sibe's, both replacements for dogs that were also handed in to rescues as too boisterous or needing too much exercise, both owners asked what I thought, then ignored me.
For one of these people its at least the 3 dog in last few years.
Just back from a big long walk where I met another sibe owner, she is 8 months and the owner asked me if I know anyone with a male as she's going to breed her when she's next in season, "sure I'll at least get my money back".:mad:
This dog has a very bad waddle walk already and I suspect hip problems. Owner says no she doesn't the breeder told her all their dogs were problem free. No certs, didn't even see parents, just picked from 4 pups in a pen.
I really do wonder about people sopmetimes.

JustAThought

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

Does anyone have any decent links to sites that tell you what you should consider when getting a dog?

I found links to a great site but please no preachy or snide comments.
If you go onto done deal and go to the pets/ dogs section there is a great link to a site with every type of breed and a chart on it's energy levels, coat shagginess, temperament, size, walking requirements, pictures, breed description etc. I found it amazingly helpful and much more so than officiL dog sites : )
Or you could buy an official all Breda dog book from amazon; about e30 and really beautiful coffee table item!
Good luck!!!

JustAThought

Oopps I didn't mean snide remarks from You!! I meant it just in general!!!

Also!I was scanning Puppies for Dummies in Easons and they have a great 2 pager tick box questionnaire that you can do; it then sorts you out by type and breed suggestions; I found it helpful!!!

One final thing!!! Giant breeds, the Great Danes and Irish Wilfhounds, don't need mire than 20 mins walking a DAY and love to just SNOOOze!! I was toying with the idea of one but thought it would be too much walking; how wrong I was. I know a few people with both and their lives are very non walking and relaxed; unlike mine!!

Best of luck and have fun : )

Cherry Blossom

Well thanks for all that helpful info, but you should probably have read the whole thread before posting

JustAThought

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

Well thanks for all that helpful info, but you should probably have read the whole thread before posting

I did.
: )

Not everybody thinks the
Same way thou; beauty of boards; diversity!

JustAThought

O that's a bit mad. I just realised I sent you a PM earlier!!! : )

Cherry Blossom

Well I'm sure other people will find this helpful as well, it just looked a bit like you hadn't realised I had all my decisions made

Cherry Blossom

JustAThought wrote: »

O that's a bit mad. I just realised I sent you a PM earlier!!! : )

Me?

If you did, I didn't get it!

JustAThought

adrenalinjunkie wrote: »

JustAThought wrote: »

O that's a bit mad. I just realised I sent you a PM earlier!!! : )

Me?

If you did, I didn't get it!

Ah! Just checked! You re right! Sorry! You were the next poster down/under! Your " name" was cooler so it stuck in my head!! Sorry!!!

crally

Hi I would be looking at what the dog was bred for. Springers are working dogs, need lots and lots of exercise, i had a cocker and he was wired. the lap dogs, cavs etc need company.

age: a huge consideration, pups will chew, pee and destroy, you cannot really leave a pup for any amount of time.

intelligence: German sheps etc need a lot of mental stimulation.

I think you should be thinking of your situation and what dog would fit in with it, I have 2 rescues and they are super dogs, both crosses and when i got them they had been neutered and were lead trained and housetrained.......

JustAThought

crally wrote: »

Hi I would be looking at what the dog was bred for. Springers are working dogs, need lots and lots of exercise, i had a cocker and he was wired. the lap dogs, cavs etc need company etc

Y! That " puppies for Dummies" chart questionnaire was great for me; before I'd come across that I'd never heard of classifications for dogs and their breed characteristics; unbelievable!!!

You re dead right!!