Puppy (Mini Schnauzer) vs older rescue dog?

[MrsMargoLeadbetter]

Hello

I am just starting to think about getting a dog. We had a lovely Bichon (in my own family) from when I was 18. We (me, DH, DS 6, DD 1) would like a Mini Schnauzer as they are non-moulting like our Bichon was and they sound like they are good for families. I will be home full-time shortly, so would like to take advantage and get a dog.

I was thinking that an older rescue dog might be better than a bouncy puppy, but I guess the downside could be behaviour problems stemming from their previous life. And actually they'll probably both need training...? Also I am guessing rescues have a real mix of dogs not just pure breeds.

I just wondered how you decided re rescue vs new puppy?

TIA

[MothershipG]

We ended up with a Mini Schnauzer puppy rather than a rescue dog because we couldn't find a rescue dog suitable for a home with young children (youngest DC was 4 at the time).

God, was she a handful, over excited, nippy, over confident, I did wonder a few times if I'd made a mistake...8 years later she's still easily over excited and over confident, but sweet as a nut, really good with other dogs and small children. Iffy recall despite loads of time, effort & money invested in her training.

However I am led to believe she is a bit of a lemon and not particularly representative of her breed!

So I would say you can do your best to make the right decision for your own circumstances but there are no guarantees in the dog game.

[wildfig]

How about a compromise? You could contact the Schnauzer Club and see if they know of any older dogs in need of a new home, or show dogs that have been retired and need a pet home?

Most pedigree breeds have at least one rescue group, and the breed club should be able to help with putting you in touch.

[Owllady]

I agree with the above poster :)

[JadeJ123]

Try the schnauzer rescue