Getting a dog

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I am considering getting a dog. My son is 9 and absolutely loves dogs, and I would really love to have one, and not just because they are cute. However my son has several allergies and he might be allergic to dogs as well, although we don't know for sure and he seems fine with other dogs. So what I would really like is to try having one for a few weeks before I commit - I know this sounds awful and I don't doubt it would be loved and well cared for, but I don't want to cause discomfort to my son or return the dog - it would break our hearts not to mention the poor dog.
Also, due to the size of our house, we can't have a big dog, think Cockapoo size. I would really like one from a rescue, not a breeder, and for many reasons I don't have the energy to commit to having a puppy, but an older dog. However, I didn't have dogs growing up and I know nothing about what having one actually means in practical terms. Also, unfortunately we don't have anyone to care for the dog when we are on holiday abroad, so we would have to use a kennel or dog sitter. And if we go away for a long day and can't take the dog (this would be about 3 times a year) would this be cruel to the dog? I don't want to neglect or distress it. Any useful words of advice or experiences worth sharing?

We have been trying for months to get a rescue. The few dogs that are kid friendly are snapped up. We have tried for loads. It’s impossible. I’m on the verge of giving up and getting a puppy.

So I have done a lot of research and also a lot of soul searching and I really want a dog. As I am usually working from home anyway, this wouldn't be a problem. And with the social distancing measures in place, going to the office will be even more rare. When my husband and I are away, we can use a local dog walker/dog sitter. This would be quite rare, anyway. I looked into it and I can afford pet insurance, vet visits and grooming, and we have so much love to give as a family. A small dog is best for us at the moment, and I accepted the thought that we might use a breeder. Although there is a small dogs rescue near us and I want to speak with the lady running it, I think they offer fostering as well and this would be best for us before committing. Someone up thread was right, you have this image of going to a rescue and coming out with the perfect dog - thanks very much Hollywood. Anyway,I was completely against the idea of getting a puppy which needs training, but I am now coming round to it. Thanks everyone for sharing your experience, and I will post an update in the future (it might be at least 6 months due to many reasons I won't go into).

Sounds like your lifestyle is great for a dog. Once older they will be able to be left for short times and services are available for the occasional longer stints. Definitely look at the lower allergen breeds rather than gambling with a crops breed. We got a puppy and was definitely the right choice for us with primary age dc and lockdown plus me working term time has meant an extended time at home with her so it's been ideal. We've definitely been able to skip walks on wet days. We've got a JRT which to be honest I'd probably not recommend for a first dog. She's pretty feisty, dc are very used to puppies and dogs though. My friend has a Yorkshire terrier who is gorgeous and far more user friendly and because they are single coated they don't shed in the way a double coat does.

Might be worth looking at borrowmydoggy as you can walk dogs or even have them in your home for a couple of days. You could then see if your son is allergic to them.

If you do go for a puppy you need to take a couple of weeks off work even though you work at home. Puppies need a lot of time and attention.