Dog - when should I buy one, how and where and what type?

[MeanBean]

I'm being constantly nagged to get a dog, by friends etc. My DS is almost 5 and my DD is almost 2. Is this too young? I've been holding out as it represents yet another job for me (I'm a single mother with a part-time job), but I also do like the idea of getting one, know it's good for children to have pets, and don't like the fact that my DS is scared of them and want to cure him by having a lovely golden retriever (possibly). Does anyone know lots about dogs and have any advice on how they mix with kids and what age is good to get one? would be very grateful for any advice.

talullah, sorry I'm not really an expert on RRs. I think at 7 months all sorts of things could still scare a pup, I shouldn't worry about it, just try not to make a fuss or anything when she does this sort of thing.

I have a terrible hankering after another pup now....

CD, you need another baby

I do Carla, just not well enough at the moment I don't think

DH and I were thinking that if we had another baby and moved to the country we could get another RR, plus some chickens and a rabbit and a goat and then just stay at home all the time as we would be too much of a menagerie to go visiting anyone. Hurrah, no more flogging down the Mway to see grandparents!!!

tallulah if you imagine her to be a baby like a human, you can draw some parellels.
They are shy/sociable/deferent when out but not on home turf - RR's are very loyal and protective, so she was prob just flexing her puppy muscles in practice for the real thing.

CD don't queue jump LOL

I'm sure I'd get preference due to the sibling rule as per the one operated in primary schools

Thanks everyone for all your advice. I've decided to hold off buying a dog for at least another couple of years, until the kids beg and beg and beg!