Dogs questions

WantFit

WantFit

Cathlete
Hi, Ladies,

A while ago I read a thread about adoption of dog. My kids kept begging me for a dog. I love dog. But I never had one before. With our busy schedule, I think the job is daunting.

My parents are going to move into a building that allows pet. They agree to keep the puppy until we are ready to have them home. Do you think this is good idea? If so, Here are some options for us to adopt:

1. Collie and German Shepherd mix baby (10 weeks)
2. Golden retriever/chow chow mix baby (10 weeks)
3. Lab/Boxer mix (10 weeks)
4. Beagle mix? (10 weeks)
5. Boxer mix? 1 year old

Which one is suitable for us? For baby dog, my parents can take care of them until they are housebreak. I like the boxer mix? young adult one. I was told he was housebreak, and sweet and urgent need a home because he has been in shelter for too long. I have 10 yr old DD and 3 1/2 yr DS. We will be out of house from 7:40am - 6:00pm. We would like to spend time with our dog out during weekend. One challege for us is what kind of dog can stay home by him/herself that long without going crazy?

The adoption event is this Saturday. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thanks


WantFit

"Become the change you want to see in the world. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi
 
Hi WantFit,

I admire your desire to adopt, but you might not like my answer. 10 hours is a long time for a dog, especially a young dog, to be left home alone.

All the breeds you mentioned are fairly high energy and, IMO, wouldn't be well suited for that kind of environment, unless you have the ability to have a dog walker come in, use a doggy daycare, etc. They'll need more attention that just the weekends.

Have you considered adopting a cat? Given your busy schedule, that may be a better fit.

Sorry...HTH.

ETA - I just re-read your post. Would your parents be open to spending time with the dog during the day (you mentioned they would house train)? That scenario might present an opportunity.
 
You are also not going to like my answer:

Please do not bring a puppy into your house unless you can be home for a majority of the day, every day. These animals require almost as much attention, guidance, training, etc. as a human child. If you really would like a pet, I would recommend a cat, or something smaller like a guinea pig.

Please do NOT get a dog (especially a puppy) considering your busy lifestyle right now.

Allison

http://www.picturetrail.com/allisonj90
 
Hi, Gayle,

Thanks for your honest opinion. We thought about cat. However, we heard that cat might cause allergy. Are they going to be good for my kids?


WantFit

"Become the change you want to see in the world. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi
 
I grew up with four cats and never had an allergy problem.

Have your kids ever been exposed to cats and had a reaction? I think you're allergic to them or you're not. I don't think getting a cat causes allergies.

Some shelters have kitty playrooms where you can visit with a cat before you adopt him or her. You can see how he/she reacts to being handled by your kids, etc. Our local humane society has one, and it's pretty cool.
 
Thanks, Allison. Yes, our schedule does not suit for puppies. I am wondering weahter the one year old dog would fit us. It seems this is not good either.

Gayle, thanks for your suggestion. I will take my kids to the shelter and let them stay around with cats and see how it go. Can kitty stay home by itself that long? Or we need the adult cat?


WantFit

"Become the change you want to see in the world. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi
 
Well - many already answered, but here's what I wrote:

Go with an older dog - a puppy would be way too much work, and in 6 months they look like older dogs anyway. You want a dog at least 10 months old.

That being said, what do you want from a dog? What do you hope this dog brings to your family? There is an adoption event, but that does not mean that your choices are limited. Do not rush into a dog. This is a life long commitment - dogs are like kids - know you will have this dog for the next 15 years.

I would really try to avoid having your parents keep the dog at all. The dog really needs stability, and not to be carted between homes. That is one reason I say get an older dog. If you're gone that long, consider getting two - more work (and yes, it is), but they will keep each other company while you're gone. Dogs are pack animals and do not like to be alone. Puppies cannot be alone that long - they are like babies. You need to spend time with them.

You should take the dog to training - for both your sakes. So many great dogs don't get trained and they become major nuisances. Commit to at least one six week class to have your dog learn the basics. Sit, down, come (come is sooo important), and stay. You'll both be happier. Jean Donaldson (a well known trainer) equates living with humans from a dog perspective as a human living with a bigger, stronger, smarter alien who does not speak our language. Training a dog allows the dog to know what is expected of him/her.

If you do not have time for all of this, then this is not the time to get a dog.
 
Cats are usually pretty independent, and can handle being home alone for that period of time better than a dog can. Also, given that they can urinate/defecate in a litter box, you don't need to worry about having to walk them.

It's been a while since I've had a kitten. My last two cats were adopted as adults. I honestly can't remember how much work they are at that age.

Christine - Good post. I'm a big Jean Donaldson fan. :)
 
I agree with the others as well. Dogs need people to be around, and crating them all day is not fair to the dog at all. They need to be walked and socialized properly to be the kind of companion that I suspect you'd be looking for for your kids.

Cats are low maintenance and do fine by themselves all day. As long as they are fed and have fresh water every day, they are happy to lounge on your furniture and nap all day long - with or without you around. Visiting the local at shelter is a great idea, to see how your kids would react to a cat, both from a health standpoint, as well as how they would treat the cat.

Good luck finding a good fit!
 
>Well - many already answered, but here's what I wrote:
>
>Go with an older dog - a puppy would be way too much work, and
>in 6 months they look like older dogs anyway. You want a dog
>at least 10 months old.
>

That is why this 1 year old boxer mix attracts to me.

>That being said, what do you want from a dog? What do you
>hope this dog brings to your family? There is an adoption
>event, but that does not mean that your choices are limited.
>Do not rush into a dog. This is a life long commitment - dogs
>are like kids - know you will have this dog for the next 15
>years.
>

Oh, what I am going to say might make you laugh at me. When I was a little, like 3rd or 4th grade, my grandma bought me dozen of chicks. I never had a pet. They became my pet. I took care of them whenever I was home. When it rained, even in the middle of night, I would wake up and check on my chicks. I was so obsessed that I had a problem when my parents wanted to turn them into table food. So I kind of understand my kids' need pet. You can attach your feelings to something you can always link to.

>I would really try to avoid having your parents keep the dog
>at all. The dog really needs stability, and not to be carted
>between homes. That is one reason I say get an older dog. If
>you're gone that long, consider getting two - more work (and
>yes, it is), but they will keep each other company while
>you're gone. Dogs are pack animals and do not like to be
>alone. Puppies cannot be alone that long - they are like
>babies. You need to spend time with them.
>
I was told by rescue agent that this particular one only like to accompany people. She does not like other dogs. So one of condition we have to accept is we should no longer have any other animal while she is with us.

>You should take the dog to training - for both your sakes. So
>many great dogs don't get trained and they become major
>nuisances. Commit to at least one six week class to have your
>dog learn the basics. Sit, down, come (come is sooo
>important), and stay. You'll both be happier. Jean Donaldson
>(a well known trainer) equates living with humans from a dog
>perspective as a human living with a bigger, stronger, smarter
>alien who does not speak our language. Training a dog allows
>the dog to know what is expected of him/her.
>
You spoke out my mind. I am actually thinking about the school thing. Even she is housebreak, crate trained, it is always better to get trained.

>If you do not have time for all of this, then this is not the
>time to get a dog.


WantFit

"Become the change you want to see in the world. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi
 
I second and third considering a cat. I don't know if a kitten is a good choice right now because they need more of a nurturing environment to start with and need to be held frequently to be socialized propertly IMO. Adult cats can make great companions for your kids. I always had cats growing up and have very good memories. I have two adult cats right now and they are both very sweet and loving. One is almost like a dog in his demeanor and his constant affections. I don't feel guilty about leaving them alone because half the time when we are home, they are hiding somewhere or sleeping, etc. I think a cat just fits the lifestlye you've described a little better and I don't think your children will be shortchanged one bit from not having a dog.
 
My twins are 7 and my son 4 I am lucky enough to be a SAHM and we are bringing a new puppy home next week it is a LhapsoApso (spelling) Poodle mix some lady dropped off 3 6 week old puppies to have them put to sleep because the mother was diagnosed with a calcium deficiency and stopped nursing them so my friend called me and asked if we would take one. I actually just got back from PetSmart to see if this would be acceptable in our family she assured me yes it will and to enroll in the training class. I went to the shelters and humane society but I am so nervous with an older dog with no information. Plus my one daughter has allergies and is on Zyrtec (Thank goodness over the counter now) and this new puppy does not shed she said so we are excited.

I know this is a hard decision for you Is there someone that could watch the dog during the week here and there and give it some extra attention maybe come by and take it for a walk or drop it off to visit a couple days a week?


beth6395

"Double Knot your laces and let's move on"
-Cathe Friedrich
 
I am another cat advocate here or even a fish at this point in your life. You simply have to be around all the time with a puppy, its not fair to the dog if you will not have the time to properly train and socialize him. Cats are more independent and easier really, still need care of course but not like a dog does.

Maybe a fish would be a nice choice until your situation changes?
 
I agree with previous posters that considering a cat may be better for you, and I think it's a good idea to go visit some cats. Some people are allergic to cats, but it is equally possible that your family may have dog allergies as well. Cats are LOWER maintenance but also need affection, though they seem to (generally) do better at home on their own. Kittens are pretty high maintenance, if I remember correctly...mine had the "midnight crazies", the "1 am crazies", the "2 am crazies", the "2:30 am crazies", the "3 am crazies", etc.

But dogs are pack animals and need to be part of the family. There is NO kind of dog that will be happy waiting from 7 or 8 in the morning until 6pm.

I know a lot of people who want a "feed it and forget it" dog and they just don't exist. Kids tend to think of dogs as a special kind of toy, that they can play with when they feel like it. This leads to neglected pets with unhappy owners every time.

I have two little dogs, and here's a sample of our every day routine:

4am: Wake up and walk/run with dogs until 4:45 or 5am, then they get breakfast.

5:45am: Another quick trip outside before I leave for work.

10:30-11: Visit from the dog walker ($20).

3pm: I get home from work, take the dogs for another 30 minute walk.

5pm: Feed the dogs their dinner, take them outside for 10-15 minutes.

7pm: One dog gets her medication (runs about $5/dose). They usually feel like playing for AT LEAST 20 minutes or so, too.

9pm: Last trip outside before bed.

That's the bare-bones routine, and it includes about 2 hours of time I spend playing with or exercising the dogs in some way. It keeps them healthy and happy and sane. I know this post is getting crazily long, but I hate to see an unhappy animal in an unhappy family. It just doesn't sound like your schedule and family can really accommodate a dog right now.

Please talk to your family and address some questions: Who will wake up super-early to take the dog for a nice long walk in the morning? Will there be a midday dog walker? Are you prepared to spend between $1000-2000 for the dog's care each year (vet bills, food, medication, walks, boarding, training, grooming, leashes, toys, chewies, etc)? Oh, I have so much more to say but I'm just getting ridiculous. You get the idea.

Dee
 
As a family dog, I would be very careful of any dog that has to be an "only" dog. You do not want your kids to be walking her, and have her suddenly pull the leash out of their hands and attack another dog. With an older dog, I would want one who is well socialized with both people (all kinds - you'll have kids running around - this dog HAS to accept that and be fine with it) and other dogs. My kids are older, but this in non-negotiable with me. Jimmy was a puppy when I got him and he's been a lot of places with me - where ever I can take him - and introduced to all kinds of people. The more experiences a dog has the better off he/she is. The more used to different types of environments, people, animals, etc, the more compfortable a dog is, and the less likely he/she is to bite. You can still do this with an older dog, but I would be wary of one who already is known to not like other dogs.

As I said, there are many, many dogs out there. Don't feel that you have to get one of the dogs you mentioned.

Also, if you want a pet for your family - a cat is an excellent option. I loved my cats growing up (cannot have one now as DH is severly allergic). That might be a better fit for you.
 
I agree with a lot of the advice already given. For a first time dog owner I would not recommend getting a boxer or a super high energy breed unless you plan to exercise the dog daily and are willing to take the time needed to train the dog. It is extremely important to match the type of dog that you get with your lifestyle. So if you want a lower maintenance type of dog it might make sense to look at a smaller breed (like a pug for example) that is not as demanding as far as physical activity and training. There are a lot of options out there for people who work and still want to have a dog and provide it with walks and play while they are at work - for example doggy daycare or professional dog walking services - but there is no way around the fact that owning a dog is a huge commitment and not to be taken lightly. Its best to ask yourself honestly if you are willing to devote the time and energy needed or if another pet (or no pet) is the answer. There are a lot of great books out there and websites that discuss the various dog breeds and their needs (hi energy breeds versus lower energy breeds). However, all dogs require a lot of attention even if they don't need as much physical activity. You may also consider attending a dog show to talk to the breeders at the show to find out more about the dog breed that you might be interested in before you make any decisions. It is always best to think long and hard and find the right pet that will fit well in your household. I personally find the joys of owning a dog worth the effort but I also would never think of owning a larger high energy breed because I know my own limitations. Good luck with your decision.
 
Regarding cats: I have 5 and I take care of another two who were abandoned (this happens often in the neighborhood in which I'm living and renovating an old house). I don't know who ever said cats don't need a lot of attention but they never met MINE. All of mine hate each other and they FIGHT for my attention the second I walk in the door. I got the second because I didn't want the first to be lonely.... I dearly, DEARLY love my babies but, If I could do it all over again, I'd stop at two animals (two cats; a cat and a dog; two dogs...). A dog would not be a good idea for you but, believe me, cats need more attention than people think and they get lonely without you.

Why do you want animals you're never around to see? If I would have known my schedule would eventually become so crazy I would never have brought a poor critter into my house. But I love waking up with them all around me on a rainy morning... and I AM allergic to cat dander. Oh well.
 
Thank you all for your honest advice. The more I read you guys' response, the more I think we should wait. That would be better for dog and us.

Just for future reference, what kind of dog is mellow, not super energy?


WantFit

"Become the change you want to see in the world. Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi
 
Nobody ever believes me when I tell them this, but greyhounds can actually be very mellow, sweet-tempered and relatively easy to care for. I worked with a greyhound rescue for many years, and retired racing greyhounds are often a good choice for someone who wants a mellow companion who isn't high-energy indoors. Also, working with a responsible greyhound rescue group is fantastic, because they (should) work with you to find a dog that is a good match for your family. Just be prepared to give up sitting on your sofa, because these dogs usually commandeer all the best comfy spots in the house at once.

But of course, it depends totally on the individual dog. Best of luck-

Dee
 
OP:

I wasn't going to post here because there are so many strong opinions here and these type posts tend to start flame wars but...

I think ALL breeds of dogs need exercise and love no matter the size or temperament. All dogs can be destructive and unhappy.

I am a firm believer that too many people take on pets when their lifestyles cannot possible fit with the responsibility which is required. If you look in the shelters, there are ALL types of animals who have been abandoned for one reason or another. Most of the people who live near me NEVER spend a moment with their animals other than to discipline them for barking or some other behavior which is a direct result of no exercise which is the fault of the owner, not the animal. When you adopt a dog, you are adopting a member of your family who demands your time.

With that said, please reconsider and use your head not your heart to make a decision. You have been given very good advice and I know you will make the right decision.
 
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