DH wants a puppy Is it worth getting a puppy for his birthday

[Safarigiraffe]

Hi all, we are thinking of getting a English Springer Spaniel puppy for DH birthday in June as a surprise for him however we do work full time, DS/DD work part time so any advice on if it’s worth getting DH the puppy he's always wanted or hang on a bit

This

My springer was amazing indoors very loving and great with kids and very calm outside he would round up other dogs but on a lead it was hard. Miss him dragging his blanket over and telling me to cover him up and turn the light out...11pm on the dot.

If your DC are old enough to be working then chances are they are likely to be moving into their own accommodation in the near future -
And even if they don't I would imagine they will have quite full lives outside of your family home. Therefore you really need to take them out of the equation when you are planning the dog's future care and exercise needs .

Such a big decision. I'd never buy a puppy as a surprise. Its something you need to discuss with your dh first. It will affect your whole family and needs to take into account who will walk them etc. Springers need a lot of attention and a lot of exercise and being left alone for more than 4 hours at a time isn't fair.

No. You shouldn't.

As many have said best discussing it with the whole family rather than a surprise!

We actually have two springers and they really are lovely natured and have both fell in love with our newly born DC.

No to you getting a puppy, no to you having a puppy as a present and thrice no for thinking about getting a springer!

No. It's cruel, irresponsible and unethical. Live animals aren't toys ffs

THIS 🖕
I'd bet any money op hasn't got the emotional intelligence to even think of adopting a rescue doggie...

It's not just getting a puppy. It's committing to 15 plus years of living with a dog. Who needs a number one in their life. Are you and your husband on board with that? Ready to treat this dog with all the care they deserve? My personal test is, could I take a dog to work every day? If not, what is the point? It's just shit all round.

I have a springer. DH owned them all his life but this is my first. Amazing dog but oh my days it's been a baptism of fire and we were both totally on board with the decision. A springer is not an 'easy' dog they are a big commitment.

Im not sure your post is genuine @Safarigiraffe

I’m sat here with my springer spaniel puppy at this stupid hour because something has spooked him tonight and he will not settle. He will be up in the morning as usual wagging his tail bounding with energy with no fucks given that he’s had me awake for a couple of hours. In fact if I offered right now he would be off out on an hours walk. He sleeps with one eye open in case he misses anything.

Do you and your DH have the energy for a puppy if you both work FT and have you ever owned a puppy or a springer? Do your DC’s realise the level of commitment? It’s not just about being at home.

Rescue a greyhound. I wouldn’t get a springer, they’re nuts! Lovely but nuts!

Our rescue dog has given us so much (mutual I hope) pleasure. He is affectionate and content with a sweet nature and was matched to our household by an excellent rescue centre.
We had to put in quite a bit of effort, working as a team, to train him and overcome his initial nervousness but now he’s a member of the family and no trouble — when I see what is involved in bringing up a puppy it leaves me feeling exhausted and I’m not surprised so many end up in rescue centres.
OP choose an older rescue dog that fits your lifestyle and defer getting a pepper until you have the time needed to devote to it.
I guarantee if you choose the right kind of rescue dog you will get the pleasure without so much pain.

I have a 6 month old cockerpoo. I WfH. He is a delight. But HARD work! Hours of attention/play and LOADS of training where consistency is key ie the same person training him plus 2 walks per day… oh and we had 8 weeks of being woken twice in the night. Have left him alone only a few times. This is not excessive, it’s normal.

My dc are late teens and like a cuddle and a play with him but they do ZILCH of the grunt work.

you have been warned!!!

It won’t be so cuuuuuuuuuute

You’re children aren’t going to be living with you for the next 15 years are they ? Springers need a huge amount of stimulation and exercise. None of this sounds good for the dog.

If your DH has always wanted a dog, at least let him choose the actual dog!

Terrible idea to give a surprise.