Talk to me about why we should/shouldn't get a dog.

[mollyroger]

.....
?
I have 2 boys 8 and 11. I grew up with dogs. But haven't had one of my own. the boys are desperate for one (including dh!)

I am really coming round to the idea.

Talk me into/out of the idea

But please don't come and rant about dog poo or vicious hounds attacking your children. I know all that and I agree!

I said 'tbh' loads of times in my first post didn't I? Makes me sound suspiciously insincere, lying through my teeth, protesting too much. Am not though.

me. In a tracksuit? Until I find one with skulls and crossbones on, not a chance.

what's stopping me is all the cons on this thread. What's egging me is all the pros on this thread.

God, it's like making the decision to have children, isn't it?

AGGGHHH.

I gave much more thought, did much more careful research before getting a dog than I did children. Tbh.

We spent so long deciding over getting a dog, we opted for a rough collie(lassie) and I think it was the best thing we ever did apart from the fur which can be a problem for visitors we havent looked back its been wonderfull he just loves the kids and loves being part of the family he is happy to fit in with us and so laid back

I have a dog. I love him dearly, but:

1. He has the most awful stomach, and I constantly have to shovel shit.
2. Although he's well-trained in every other respect, nothing will stop him getting onto the table and eating our food. The time he ate a pound of dark brown sugar had particularly memorable results. And then there was the whole Victoria sponge, the lovingly made quiche, the egg mayonaise, the entire pasta salad and the party size trifle with sherry.

1. He is constantly muddy. He needs a bath all the time. After a bath, he goes outside and rolls in the mud.
2. He chewed up many items when he was a puppy.

BUT

1. He rests his head on my lap and I know he loves me.
2. He's ecstatic to see me, even if I've only been gone ten minutes.
3. He's so happy when I get out his lead. It makes me feel that life can be simple.
4. It's fun to throw biscuits to him and watch him catch them.

Mollyroger why don't you see if there is any body in your area who will let you foster a dog. It would give you an insight of whether it would suit your life.