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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

I am sooooo dog broody but I don’t think I can have one…can I?

66 replies

Sidebeforeself · 06/10/2023 20:57

i really want a dog. Retiring next year so that would be the best time. Never had one but family members have. Prefer bigger/more active breeds. Ground floor flat but countryside on doorstep. However no secure garden. We like holidays/overnight stays but wont be able to afford them often when i retire.DH prefers cats . What do you reckon?

OP posts:
Original poster
Sidebeforeself · 07/10/2023 13:53

No the person who said “ Why don’t you just move to somewhere with a garden.. if you are retired you can go anywhere “

OP posts:
Original poster
Sidebeforeself · 07/10/2023 13:54

@Robotalkingrubbish Sorry meant to tag you

OP posts:
littlejo67 · 07/10/2023 14:03

There are dogs in rescues confined to cages and runs with the minimum of exercise and attention, as rescues are so stretched.
You are offering a dog so much more than that and a loving family.
Have you thought about looking on 'Underdogs international' and rehoming a young street dog from another country that is desperate? They save meat trade dogs as well. I did this when I wanted a dog.

mrsjoyfulprizeforraffiawork · 07/10/2023 14:21

I have a first floor flat and a garden. My dog likes the garden but doesn't like to be in it without me. We go for 2 good walks a day at least 2 hours a day if I am working, usually 3-4 if not (nearby forest, very fortunately, as am in outer suburb of city) and I honestly think that from the dog's point of view, the garden is not essential. Mine is a rescue (Battersea) and they were fine with it (garden not being directly accessible from flat) and my friend, in a flat with no garden, got a Battersea dog many years ago.

BristolBlueGlasses · 07/10/2023 15:38

margotrose · 07/10/2023 10:58

In fairness @BristolBlueGlasses I don't think many (if any) dog owners put that much thought into whether dog ownership is right for them.

You're right Margot. It's one of the reasons why rescue centres are full to bursting and so many people are trying to rehome dogs that don't fit in with their life.

stayathomer · 07/10/2023 15:53

Op personally I think you know it’s not feasible from the way you’ve spoken from the start- I think definitely look into helping out with charities, you do sound like you’ve so much love to give

Original poster
Sidebeforeself · 07/10/2023 16:56

@stayathomer Thats a great idea! I’d not thought of that. At least as a means of deciding whether I’m dog ready

OP posts:
userxx · 07/10/2023 19:26

Where about's are you op ? I'm 3 weeks in with a pup and you can happily have him, all bloodiness will disappear within 2 days.

Woollymonster · 07/10/2023 19:29

What about looking at fostering a Guide Dog?
I have just looked at their website and they just ask for a secure place for the pup to go to the toilet, which could be your patio area.
You’ll be able to access their training to help you with all the training aspects.

MercyIsEliminated · 07/10/2023 20:33

I would say that not having a secure garden is no issue at all. I've lived in those circumstances with dogs and had no problem whatsoever. The most important thing is to be an owner who provides what the dog needs in terms of exercise and enrichment. Some dog owners with tiny postage-stamp sized gardens chuck the dog outside a few times a day and think that's enough. Obviously, it isn't (at least not for the vast majority of dogs).

So if you want a dog and have the time, energy, and desire to meet the dog's needs, I'd say go for it.

Bordercolliesarebest1 · 20/10/2023 10:02

Op I think you could have a rescue dog. You just need the right one, as you say maybe an older dog. Look at Safe Rescue for dogs in Norfolk. They are a wonderful rescue.

WHALESURPRISE · 20/10/2023 10:18

Foreign rescues tend to be less picky about who can adopt a dog because they know that the important thing is to get the dog a home!

I dint have a garden, it just means I had to step outside with my dog on a lead several times a night when he was tortuous training as a puppy. Now he's an adult he gets 20 mins first thing in the morning, an hour at lunchtime and an hour at 5ish. He's happy as Larry!

You may also find plenty of dog-friendly breaks of you do want a weekend away!

Ferretmad2 · 20/10/2023 11:05

A smooth collie might suit you. I have a rough and most of his time in the garden is spent lying around.

WetBandits · 20/10/2023 12:16

Came to suggest a greyhound (retired racer), they are couch potatoes and despite not liking cats at all, they are essentially huge, skinny cats. Never met one that doesn’t just want to lounge around all day like an ornamental bag of elbows. Are you certain your husband couldn’t be convinced to settle on a greyhound?! They are truly lovely dogs.

Original poster
Sidebeforeself · 25/10/2023 21:38

DH absolutely against greyhounds Im afraid!

OP posts:
userxx · 26/10/2023 15:39

Sidebeforeself · 25/10/2023 21:38

DH absolutely against greyhounds Im afraid!

What a shame, greyhounds are brilliant dogs and soooo many out there need a loving home. My dad is on his 7th at 78 years old.

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