First time dog owner

[bananafraggle]

Hi

Looking for some advice from experienced dog owners. Would really love to adopt a dog as a new family member, have done lots of research into breeds etc but for every good story there is a bad one. My main concern is I have two house cats and unsure how they'd cope with a dog. I also have a 7 year DS who is great with the cats and other family members dogs.

Thanks for all the great info, will give us lots to look into. We want to make sure we look into it all properly as it's such a big commitment, we also work full time which is not ideal but with dog walkers etc I think we could all be happy

YY to PP- an older dog is much more of a known quantity, and a rescue centre will help you choose. When you bring new dog home, give him/her time to settle in, and realise that you need to build a relationship with him. Don't assume he is 'yours' straight away- he needs to get to know you before trusting you.
It's lovely to have a rescue dog.

We'll definitely go for a rescue as both our cats are rescued

And get in touch with your local dog training club! You should get plenty of support for the rescue centre, but doing a training course is great. Most club's run the good "citizen dog scheme". This will help you to bond with your dog, you are surrounded by people who know about dogs and will be able to help out with any problems you might encounter.

Before you get the dog, get all your ducks in a row with a trainer and walkers or you'll find yourself stuck for a while until you get them organised.