What would our ideal dog be, if any?

[5inthebed]

Ok, so the DC and DH have finally ground me down about the dog.

We have 3 dc aged 7, 5 and 2. DH works full time, I am SAHM.

DH keen to get a dog that is (roughly) toilet trained so wants to get a dog aged 6 months - 2 years. We would either get a rescue dog or one from the local free paper.

We have a cat, so I thought a puppy would be better, but again, I'm not keen on the toilet training stage of puppies.

So what breed? We were thinking something like a Labrador. I would prefer smaller like a Jack Russel but DH thinks they will be a yappy dog.

Any info welcome.

5, they are indeed the ideal dog.
Here is current list of older dogs from breeders, there are numbers for the rescue org there too but says they always have a waiting list. Not too many unwanted dachsies, fortunately.

But £600 is only the start of the cost of a dog... don't forget that. This month DH has paid out - can't remember now but several hundred pounds insurance, yesterday I shelled £63 for vac booster and worm pills, and over £100 part payment for his accommodation while we're on holiday.

I call my dachshund 'my little luxury' - I'd rather have him than all the designer clothes in the world but (like any dog) the ongoing costs are considerable.

Oh I know there will be little costs, but paying a huge sum for a dog is just not going to happen. I can't justify it when I've got three small kids.

Maybe in a few years.....

Doberman? thats just an oversized dachshund on legs though, isn't it? Bet it eats a lot more!

A rescue greyhound might be just the dog for you - quiet and loving, don't need masses of exercise. A rescue dog is not necessarily less expensive. I paid a donation of £165 for mine and then paid £30 for a check up at the vet when I was told he needs teeth out ( I was aware of this) and I should budget £250
So, we are up to £445 already ( worth every ppenny) and I seem to have spent the best part of £100 in Pets at Home kitting him out!

Mine is a Staffie, and 3 months ago I would never imagine having one, thought they were uugly and the reputation put me off. Now I have one I think he is beautiful, and he has a lovely sweet nature too.

Hello!

Just wanted to suggest a Golden Retriever as a dog breed. My pup is 7 months old and she's been a dream- she's got bags of spirit and character but has been pretty easy to train and is very gentle especially round children. I also hear great things about labradors and their temperament.

I think you can go on the waiting list for labrador and retriever pups that don't quite make it as guide dogs so they have already had a good, disciplined start. Putting your name down for one of those may be a good option and also buy you some time- I think there is a waiting list due to high demand.

Good luck :)

We got a 9 week old Golden Retreiver when our children were aged 6, 8 & 10. He is now 13 months old and i can honestly say has been fab with the kids, do not get me wrong it has not all been easy, we attended puppy school! Have spent hours disciplinning him (still are) and lots of telling off (kids & pup) But overall, Golden Retreivers are reknowned for being friendly, loyal, easy to train & good with children, he loves the children as they love him and i recomend the breed very highly.

We have cocker spaniels and they put up with a lot of punishment love! Their downside is coat care but they do need lots of exercise so are a good excuse for time out

I have 3 DC, all primary school age. I also have GSDs, 3 of them now.

I have had many breeds and mongrels in my life, and all breeds have their strengths and weaknesses, but I have to say that with having young kids I do prefer the temperament of GSDs.

They are patient, loyal and protective, very intelligent, and not very demanding. They are good with kids but not all over them, and they can distance themselves from children when the children get OTT.

As GSDs are , IMO a one person dog, it works well as they are forever following me, and that makesit easier for me in ensuring all is well and safe!!!!