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Dog choice help

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  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    Taiga wrote: »
    I've enjoyed this thread, lots to learn here. On beagles, my brother got one from a rescue 5 years ago. He was beautiful with a lovely temperament. Bro walked him all day long as he loves ambling in the country. He had him close to a year when one day Chip got a whiff of something on a walk and took off like a shot. Bless him, he was never seen again.

    I've noticed lots of collie x's in rescues op. Bro adopted one shortly after Chip went awol and he has a wonderful temperament. So loyal and loves a snuggle. Needs a good walk and he's happy. This fella sheds though. I mean SHEDS. He's banned from all of our houses as he walks through and leaves a trail of long hairs, unbelievable.

    My little fella (sob) no longer with us, but we got him from a rescue too (same one as collie x). He was a terrier x. Beautiful loyal little one, very easy to train. We had a home check before we got him. He was 8 weeks old.

    I think it's largely a lottery. No matter where or how you come by your pal, you can be lucky or unlucky health and temperament-wise. Best of luck op.

    It’s been very helpful, lots of passionate dog owners. I might end up with 7 dogs as lots of them look and sound amazing.
    It is a lottery of who you end up with. Our family had bat**** crazy dogs and smart dogs, all different breeds. That’s nuts about the beagle nose Taiga, must have been tough for your brother. Think my wife and daughter will have final say on choice. Son just wants a dog. My wife said I have the ability to ignore any type of mess so dog hair would not be an issue.
    Anyway thanks to everyone and please keep posting. We won’t rush in to getting a dog


  • Posts: 0 [Deleted User]


    While they can be lovely dogs I’d discourage getting a beagle for the house’s first dog - they really do need a ton of space and walking and go crazy and destructive if that isn’t seen to.

    I know the kids will be saying they’ll walk him twice a day etc etc but I think you’d be better off going for a more placid breed for the first maybe a lab cross or something similar. Labs are relatively undemanding and are excellent with children; very trainable too.


  • Registered Users Posts: 3,761 ✭✭✭Knine


    While they can be lovely dogs I’d discourage getting a beagle for the house’s first dog - they really do need a ton of space and walking and go crazy and destructive if that isn’t seen to.

    I know the kids will be saying they’ll walk him twice a day etc etc but I think you’d be better off going for a more placid breed for the first maybe a lab cross or something similar. Labs are relatively undemanding and are excellent with children; very trainable too.

    You need to spend some time with a fit lively teenage Lab & you might change your mind!


  • Registered Users Posts: 3,817 ✭✭✭Darc19


    Another thing to think about is neighbors.

    If you live in a semi detached house or in an estate of closely built homes look for a dog that is less likely to bark at every noise.

    A good choice might be a bichon cross breed such as bichon/maltese or Small and robust, friendly, non shed and very personable.

    https://www.dogtemperament.com/top-bichon-frise-mixes/


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,292 ✭✭✭em_cat


    Bannasidhe wrote: »
    I don't think you have experienced just how choosey/picky a reputable rescue is when it comes to who can adopt... :P

    I could be wrong - and open to correction - but I have never heard of a breeder doing a Home Check. Nor were we ever home checked back in the days when we did buy off breeders.

    I know quite a few breeders that do now especially if they also run a welfare scheme.


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  • Registered Users Posts: 37,823 ✭✭✭✭eagle eye


    My personal recommendation to people with a youngish family is always a well bred golden retriever.
    You want a small dog though which rules that out. I have a Jack Russell Fox Terrier and she is a wonderful little dog. I'd recommend a puppy and make sure you are ready to train and be firm. If you train them right you have a great dog. I'd recommend a female.
    If you change your mind and want to go for a bigger dog the Golden retriever male puppy is my proposal. Second for me would be the Doberman Pinscher which has a bad reputation but a well bred one who is trained right and we'll exercised is a wonderful family dog, maybe even better than the Golden retriever.

    Always buy from a good breeder. Make sure to check for eye and hip scores of the parents because you are less likely to run into trouble down the line. Always neuter your family dog, it'll ensure you get a longer living, healthier dog.


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    Darc19 wrote: »
    Another thing to think about is neighbors.

    If you live in a semi detached house or in an estate of closely built homes look for a dog that is less likely to bark at every noise.

    A good choice might be a bichon cross breed such as bichon/maltese or Small and robust, friendly, non shed and very personable.

    https://www.dogtemperament.com/top-bichon-frise-mixes/

    Thanks. Terraced house, most neighbors have cats and they all hang out in our garden as we have grass, they are a pain in the arse. I don’t think we would leave dog outside really. That is a good point about barking. Yipping dog would drive me nuts, barking would be ok.
    Just googled bichon and maltese. They are not my cup of tea but thank you for suggestion.


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,292 ✭✭✭em_cat


    Choc Chip wrote: »
    Yeah, but my terrier (as a "non-shed" breed) spills a lot less on my floor. He does have a pile more left on my clothes though. Suppose it depends what you're more bothered by.

    Can someone tell me whether poodles are actually totally non-shed because if they are I'm just getting poodles from now on.

    Poodles shed a lot less than most breeds but the trade off is... :) I know you know... Same here our ‘non shed’ Terrier is the same, the Pom x waits outside every evening for her rake, comb, brush, comb only to do it again tomorrow. She loves it but my christ nearly lost a few fingers training her for it...


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    eagle eye wrote: »
    My personal recommendation to people with a youngish family is always a well bred golden retriever.
    You want a small dog though which rules that out. I have a Jack Russell Fox Terrier and she is a wonderful little dog. I'd recommend a puppy and make sure you are ready to train and be firm. If you train them right you have a great dog. I'd recommend a female.
    If you change your mind and want to go for a bigger dog the Golden retriever male puppy is my proposal. Second for me would be the Doberman Pinscher which has a bad reputation but a well bred one who is trained right and we'll exercised is a wonderful family dog, maybe even better than the Golden retriever.

    Always buy from a good breeder. Make sure to check for eye and hip scores of the parents because you are less likely to run into trouble down the line. Always neuter your family dog, it'll ensure you get a longer living, healthier dog.

    Thanks, another poster mentioned a retriever also. They are lovely dogs. Reason we were considering smaller dogs was I thought it might be unfair for them in a house and garden which aren’t massive. They would get a lot of exercise. Doberman are also lovely, we had a Rottweiler which would have similar reputation and he was a dote, really gentle and affectionate. He used to always try and sit on my lap. Can’t see my wife agreeing to it though.


  • Registered Users Posts: 11,307 ✭✭✭✭salmocab


    Just skimmed through so not sure if it’s been mentioned but grey hounds and crosses of make great pets. Generally once they get exercised they will lie down for hours. I’ve a cross and he’s the laziest most docile thing around the house. If we have people over he generally goes upstairs yo have a sleep on our bed. Great pets.


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  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,537 ✭✭✭ldy4mxonucwsq6


    salmocab wrote: »
    Just skimmed through so not sure if it’s been mentioned but grey hounds and crosses of make great pets. Generally once they get exercised they will lie down for hours. I’ve a cross and he’s the laziest most docile thing around the house. If we have people over he generally goes upstairs yo have a sleep on our bed. Great pets.

    Yes, they do and lurchers as well. Sleep machines 😂


  • Registered Users Posts: 17,736 ✭✭✭✭kylith


    What do you want in a dog, OP? How much exercise are you looking to do? How much grooming?


  • Registered Users Posts: 3,953 ✭✭✭jimf


    why not pop into the rescue your considering

    you would be amazed there may be a little dog there that will pick you and everybody will have an input

    you want a your wife wants b why not let the kids pick problem solved both winners


  • Posts: 0 [Deleted User]


    Knine wrote: »
    You need to spend some time with a fit lively teenage Lab & you might change your mind!

    I’m familiar.
    I had to put down my lively 16 year old lab a few months ago, had a lesion on his brain poor hound.


  • Registered Users Posts: 37,823 ✭✭✭✭eagle eye


    wobert wrote:
    Thanks, another poster mentioned a retriever also. They are lovely dogs. Reason we were considering smaller dogs was I thought it might be unfair for them in a house and garden which aren’t massive. They would get a lot of exercise. Doberman are also lovely, we had a Rottweiler which would have similar reputation and he was a dote, really gentle and affectionate. He used to always try and sit on my lap. Can’t see my wife agreeing to it though.
    We have a retriever and a Jack Russell fox terrier. They both live in the house. No issue with either.


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    While they can be lovely dogs I’d discourage getting a beagle for the house’s first dog - they really do need a ton of space and walking and go crazy and destructive if that isn’t seen to.

    I know the kids will be saying they’ll walk him twice a day etc etc but I think you’d be better off going for a more placid breed for the first maybe a lab cross or something similar. Labs are relatively undemanding and are excellent with children; very trainable too.

    Our kids are 11 & 9 so they will help minding the dog (feeding, grooming, cleaning up after)and learn how to take care of it in general. I am sure I will be doing most walks and especially when it’s cold and wet. A few posters have mentioned lab/retriever and we do like them so they are now included in the list of possibles. Thanks


  • Registered Users Posts: 618 ✭✭✭Sheepdish1


    Hi OP, well done for researching the breed so much, a lot of dogs end up in pounds or shelters as people haven't put the time in to researching the breed and suitability to family/lifestyle/financially so you are off to a good start imo :D

    Some pure breeds are more susceptible to certain health problems as they have been overbred to have traits that look a certain way but physically cause problems. eg soft palate/ breathing difficulties in pugs.....or cavaliers are prone to developing heart problems or problems with their skull.

    Of course there are mainly two options when getting new dog, adopt from rescue or buy from reputable breeder. Avoid online and donedeal imo.

    If buying from a breeder you need to be very careful it is not from puppy farm.
    The ISPCA have guidelines here how to prevent this.

    https://www.ispca.ie/news/detail/thinking_of_getting_a_new_puppy_here_is_what_you_need_to_know

    I understand that some people want to buy from breeder so they can have particular breed and there is no problem with that but a huge benefit of going to a reputable rescue is they will rehome a dog that is suitable for you and your family.

    It is worth noting that many dogs from rescues are quite calm and loving, they may have come from good or bad situations. A good rescue will take your details and match you well. Sometimes people rehome dogs because they have become sick, or lost their house, or financially can't keep them. Other rescue dogs have been born in rescue and reared with fosterers so are very well socialised which is crucial so you have a happy and confident dog:D Other rescues come from neglect or abuse but make wonderful pets. they all have different personalities.

    Beagles are lovely but you need to be conscious that they can be quite vocal. They need plenty of stimulation too or can become destructive or anxious. Lurchers or greyhounds are fabulous pets too and are couch potatoes

    You need to also consider financially in relation to dog and breed:
    food x estimated years lifespan - this can add up depending on size and needs of dog
    routine veterinary care ( yearly vacs, worming, flea treatments etc)
    non routine unforeseen vet care - some breeds are more prone to problems
    grooming - this is quite an expense - depending on breed they may need to be groomed every 6-8 weeks which is pricey :eek: depending on size of dogs and coat it can vary!
    Insurance - this would be recommended if you can afford
    Training - give your puppy / dog the best start by using force free trainer
    Kennels when away. This is something a lot of people don't think about. Again can be pricey.


    fostering would be a great way to test the water. Loads of lovely little lurcher pups are always looking for home. Many of these raised in shelters have been socialised well if fostered there. I love mix breeds personally :D

    Best of luck op :D


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    Sheepdish1 wrote: »
    Hi OP, well done for researching the breed so much, a lot of dogs end up in pounds or shelters as people haven't put the time in to researching the breed and suitability to family/lifestyle/financially so you are off to a good start imo :D

    Some pure breeds are more susceptible to certain health problems as they have been overbred to have traits that look a certain way but physically cause problems. eg soft palate/ breathing difficulties in pugs.....or cavaliers are prone to developing heart problems or problems with their skull.

    Of course there are mainly two options when getting new dog, adopt from rescue or buy from reputable breeder. Avoid online and donedeal imo.

    If buying from a breeder you need to be very careful it is not from puppy farm.
    The ISPCA have guidelines here how to prevent this.

    https://www.ispca.ie/news/detail/thinking_of_getting_a_new_puppy_here_is_what_you_need_to_know

    I understand that some people want to buy from breeder so they can have particular breed and there is no problem with that but a huge benefit of going to a reputable rescue is they will rehome a dog that is suitable for you and your family.

    It is worth noting that many dogs from rescues are quite calm and loving, they may have come from good or bad situations. A good rescue will take your details and match you well. Sometimes people rehome dogs because they have become sick, or lost their house, or financially can't keep them. Other rescue dogs have been born in rescue and reared with fosterers so are very well socialised which is crucial so you have a happy and confident dog:D Other rescues come from neglect or abuse but make wonderful pets. they all have different personalities.

    Beagles are lovely but you need to be conscious that they can be quite vocal. They need plenty of stimulation too or can become destructive or anxious. Lurchers or greyhounds are fabulous pets too and are couch potatoes

    You need to also consider financially in relation to dog and breed:
    food x estimated years lifespan - this can add up depending on size and needs of dog
    routine veterinary care ( yearly vacs, worming, flea treatments etc)
    non routine unforeseen vet care - some breeds are more prone to problems
    grooming - this is quite an expense - depending on breed they may need to be groomed every 6-8 weeks which is pricey :eek: depending on size of dogs and coat it can vary!
    Insurance - this would be recommended if you can afford
    Training - give your puppy / dog the best start by using force free trainer
    Kennels when away. This is something a lot of people don't think about. Again can be pricey.


    fostering would be a great way to test the water. Loads of lovely little lurcher pups are always looking for home. Many of these raised in shelters have been socialised well if fostered there. I love mix breeds personally :D

    Best of luck op :D

    Thank you, another really helpful post. We are only starting to research now so all opinions are gratefully received. We won’t get a dog until we are satisfied it’s the right one for us.


  • Registered Users Posts: 618 ✭✭✭Sheepdish1


    Knine wrote: »
    You need to spend some time with a fit lively teenage Lab & you might change your mind!

    Was just thinking of my relatives dogs, both labs and completely bonkers :D

    It is their owner's fault though not the dogs as they don't train or mentally stimulate them. They also didn't research the breed and needs before buying from breeder. I feel it is only a matter of time before the dogs are rehomed as they don't train them and can't walk them properly as they pull and are very strong dogs. Lovely dogs but haven't been taught not to jump for example so you can't step into back garden without getting filthy.

    They would have been far more suited with small dogs but liked the idea of getting a labs.


  • Registered Users Posts: 618 ✭✭✭Sheepdish1


    wobert wrote: »
    How would the fostering work?
    My wife works mornings, I was thinking I could drop kids to school with dog and keep it in my office. Wife would collect dog on way back from work. I thought I could keep bed in corner of room and bring dog out for quick stretch every hour or so

    It may be hard to get any work done in the office fostering a puppy, think back to trying to get work done on your computer when your kids are toddlers, puppies need the same attention imo! A rescue would help you with this and advise how to crate train which will help with management of puppy chewing and keeping it safe when you can't supervise


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  • Registered Users Posts: 618 ✭✭✭Sheepdish1


    tk123 wrote: »
    I have 2 x retrievers and a small terraced house - they just need couch space lol :o OP there's nothing wrong with researching different breeds even if you do go the rescue route so you know what traits you can expect? A reputable breeder would imo be more choosey/picky than a rescue too as to who they let take one of their pups too.

    A reputable rescue will generally be very careful who they rehome their dogs to and make sure the dog suits the family as they know too well why dogs get surrendered, a huge reason dogs are surrendered is because of lack of research and lack of info about breed and needs.

    They are not breeding dogs for profit and may have invested a large amount of time and veterinary care in minding the dog in care and will want to make sure it goes into a home that is suitable to prevent it being rehomed again. A reputable rescue will also be realistic about suitability of dog to a persons circumstances and generally will do homecheck if they can.


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    Sheepdish1 wrote: »
    It may be hard to get any work done in the office fostering a puppy, think back to trying to get work done on your computer when your kids are toddlers, puppies need the same attention imo! A rescue would help you with this and advise how to crate train which will help with management of puppy chewing and keeping it safe when you can't supervise

    I don’t think fostering will happen tbh. a puppy would be a little messer but it would be the only option to mind it in my office as my wife will be in work mornings and our kids in school. Work wise it would be fine for me to have it in office. It’s office hours would be 9 to 1 probably


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,094 ✭✭✭The Cool


    Sheepdish1 wrote: »
    Was just thinking of my relatives dogs, both labs and completely bonkers :D

    It is their owner's fault though not the dogs as they don't train or mentally stimulate them. They also didn't research the breed and needs before buying from breeder. I feel it is only a matter of time before the dogs are rehomed as they don't train them and can't walk them properly as they pull and are very strong dogs. Lovely dogs but haven't been taught not to jump for example so you can't step into back garden without getting filthy.

    They would have been far more suited with small dogs but liked the idea of getting a labs.

    Very true, and applies to most dogs I would think, that a lot is down to your training of them. It's a shame, I find labs (in my experience anyway) respond so well to it, if you are firm with them and put the work in. Some small treats to hand and my fella would read you the phone book.


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    I received a lovely dm earlier from someone involved with a rescue center. Gorgeous terrier puppy looking for a home. It will be end of September before any decision is made though. I showed pic to my son and he wanted to adopt it immediately. Wife is unwell last couple of days so no discussions really.
    Golden retriever comments have me tempted, dog training would be done.
    Thanks for commenting everyone, really helpful.


  • Registered Users Posts: 28,650 ✭✭✭✭AndrewJRenko


    wobert wrote: »
    Golden retriever comments have me tempted, dog training would be done.
    Thanks for commenting everyone, really helpful.
    They're a big dog, and need a lot of space and a lot of attention. Neighbours got one a couple of years back, and it sits bored in the small back garden all day. It gets walked a couple of times a week instead of a couple of times a day.

    If you're taking on a big dog, make sure that you have the time and space it will need.


  • Registered Users Posts: 791 ✭✭✭Roycropper63


    Would suggest a roan cocker spaniel.we have a blue roan bitch. Loads of energy.loves water and is a amazing with our grandkids.


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,292 ✭✭✭em_cat


    Met a lovely young lad, Dexter, lurcher mix today. Can pm you the rescue if you’d like.


  • Registered Users Posts: 330 ✭✭hotshots85


    wobert wrote: »
    I received a lovely dm earlier from someone involved with a rescue center. Gorgeous terrier puppy looking for a home. It will be end of September before any decision is made though. I showed pic to my son and he wanted to adopt it immediately. Wife is unwell last couple of days so no discussions really.
    Golden retriever comments have me tempted, dog training would be done.
    Thanks for commenting everyone, really helpful.

    Can you PM me the rescue centre details? In a very similar situation as yourselves looking for a small family dog, young kids so starting with puppy but really trying to go down the rescue route (to avoid puppy farms etc or just its a lovely idea) for a pup but seems I am looking for something almost impossible!


  • Registered Users Posts: 74 ✭✭wobert


    hotshots85 wrote: »
    Can you PM me the rescue centre details? In a very similar situation as yourselves looking for a small family dog, young kids so starting with puppy but really trying to go down the rescue route (to avoid puppy farms etc or just its a lovely idea) for a pup but seems I am looking for something almost impossible!

    PM sent


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  • Registered Users Posts: 1,170 ✭✭✭sillysmiles


    One of the rescues I follow on facebook just posted a video last night of one of their bitches giving birth.
    If you are FB start following all the rescues in your area and a little further a field and you will see that most rescues have a rake of puppies.


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