Mystie
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,299
Jun 25, 2014 19:53:37 GMT
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Post by Mystie on Mar 24, 2016 4:22:36 GMT
...I've never owned a dog before, so it's taking a LOT of pondering. I think the right dog could really be a benefit to my life, and I would enjoy giving a shelter doggy a happy life, too. So I have the humane society picked out; my friend got her dog there and gives the place a glowing review. I haven't been to look at dogs yet, because I know how I am--I've gotta be very 100% sure before I go, because if I go I WILL come home with a pet! I would like a small-to-medium (not tiny), calm, smart, quiet dog. Does such a thing exist? I like terrier-type dogs, but a mutt or mix is just fine. We have a backyard and a nice quiet neighborhood for walking. We can afford vet bills and boarding for the occasional times we go out of town. What else do I need to take into consideration? What do dogs need? I have to be sure I can provide what it needs...I do not want to regret the decision.
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luvnlifelady
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,421
Jun 26, 2014 2:34:35 GMT
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Post by luvnlifelady on Mar 24, 2016 4:24:17 GMT
You might want to look at their dogs online to narrow down a few. Then go and see those. Just an idea. Good luck picking out your furbaby.
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Post by gmcwife1 on Mar 24, 2016 4:33:02 GMT
If you are interested in Terriers research their general breed tendencies
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Post by CarolT on Mar 24, 2016 4:51:30 GMT
My current dog is a westie - she fits the description you have Growing up, I had a spaniel mix who also fit what you describe. Especially when they are new to your home, dogs need patience and time. Dogs need obedience training - we went to Petsmart and had a good experience. They need a place that is their own to eat and sleep (Piper has a bed in the kitchen, and that is her space at night. She also has a bed in the family room - although she spends most evenings curled up next to me on the couch or in my lap. Dogs need "good" food - Piper is small (15lbs) and doesn't eat a lot, so I spend about $20-$30/month. Flea and heartworm preventative meds and grooming expenses (for some breeds) also should be considered. Good luck - I've always had a dog and always will
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Post by marykate on Mar 24, 2016 5:42:30 GMT
A terrier is highly intelligent, but also highly excitable. Not the quietest canine on the block, in my experience.
A dog represents a real commitment (of time, energy, and patience), but in my opinion, all of that work is totally worth it. A dog is not only at your side, he or she is also on your side. The most loyal companion in the world; and a woman's best friend.
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Post by Delta Dawn on Mar 24, 2016 5:54:33 GMT
All dogs require grooming of some kind. Either they shed and you vaccuum and groom your sofa. A non-shedding dog usually has to have it's fur/wool cut. You have to decide whether you want to get your dog groomed or not. Vacuuming is a pain in the neck (I mean the daily kind not the once a week deep clean). Grooming isn't cheap either. You can learn to do it yourself and you might find you enjoy doing it (I know tons of people who started grooming their own dogs and it became a business or hobby for profit.) I love Wheaton terriers. @*elaine* has one and I know of a sweet one here. That will be my next dog. I have a standard poodle who is beautiful and elegant, but he is tall and needs grooming every 7 weeks. It is $130 per time now. (Bigger the dog the more expensive the grooming).
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Post by penny on Mar 24, 2016 5:59:23 GMT
It may sound cold, but some shelters/rescues have a test run type period... It benefits the dog - makes it a more comfortable situation for people to return a certain dog that's not a good fit, rather than everyone being unhappy or stressed... I've heard of it being 48 hours all the way up to three weeks...
I've also heard of one shelter who will let you put the dog you're interested in on hold... You can take it for the day, and see how it acts with you, etc... You take the dog back each evening, and can do that for three days in a row and then make your decision... You put a 'deposit' down and no one else can adopt or 'test out' that dog until you make your decision/the three days are up...
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FurryP
Drama Llama
To pea or not to pea...
Posts: 6,975
Site Supporter
Jun 26, 2014 19:58:26 GMT
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Post by FurryP on Mar 24, 2016 6:32:03 GMT
The better dog food is kinda pricey. The bigger the dog, the faster you will have to buy a new bag or can. You can give it the cheaper food, but that is like McDonald's versus chicken, fresh fruits and vegatables. Consider that in your expenses if you choose the better food. here is some dog food info : Dog Food Advisor
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Post by monklady123 on Mar 24, 2016 10:34:41 GMT
We'd never had a dog either until we got our Simba eight years ago. She's also a shelter dog. A good shelter (which it sounds like yours is, since you said they've been recommended) will help you find a dog whose personality/activity fits what you want. The main things that a dog needs are: -- rules -- make sure you are in charge and that the dog knows it. Pretend that it really IS your idea that he's sleeping on the bed with you. (although, even Cesar Millan says it's okay for the dog to be on your bed as long as you invited him up there -- I follow this with my dog because if I let her get up first then she hogs all the space and I have none. So she's not allowed to jump up until I'm settled with as much of the blanket as I need. Darn dog. ) -- exercise -- twice-daily walks (in my opinion once is not enough) -- socialization -- play dates with friends, dog parks, or walking with a friend -- education (lol) -- even if he/she comes to you with some obedience training it's a good idea to take a class with your dog. You'll learn how to interact with him and he'll get practice in obeying you. -- decent food -- no need for top-of-the-line organic raw food (expensive), but a decent food whose first ingredient isn't a grain. -- medical care -- If you get a shelter dog there might be several vets who have offered to do the first visit for free. That's how we found our vet. We get our heartworm and flea stuff from the vet but I know people who save a bit of money by getting it online. -- love This one is easy. That's my list. We've never regretted getting our dog. It's a great way to meet neighbors who you've been living near for ages but who you've never talked to. You'll meet all the dogs in the neighborhood too and you'll know their names but forget the owners' names. "Hey dh, I ran into Buster and his person this morning...." lol. Once I saw a woman walking a dog who I knew from running into the dog with the man. I said "Oh hey is that Callie?" lol. Then I introduced myself to the woman. -- You'll also get regular exercise. I can tell you with 100% certainty that I would NOT be out walking in 22 degrees unless I had to be walking the dog. Her 22-degree walk isn't as long as the lovely fall walks but it's still a walk that I wouldn't be getting otherwise. The other thing you'll need is a camera/phone to take all the billion photos that you'll be taking. You know, the ones you'll be posting here to show us your new sweetie. oh, and eta -- Even the best dh doesn't greet you quite like a dog will when you've been gone. And certainly not if you've been gone for an hour doing an errand. Me to dh: "I'm back." Dh: "Oh, didn't realize you went out." -- But, me to dog: [all I do is open the front door]. Dog: "OMG OMG OMG OMG YOU CAME BACK!!!! I THOUGHT YOU WERE GONE FOREVER!!!" -- lol. Some years ago my dd said "Mom, how did we ever come home before we had Simba?"
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Post by Merge on Mar 24, 2016 11:05:39 GMT
Research the breed(s) of any dog you're considering before you fall in love with it. Dogs who are traumatized in the shelter don't always show their true personalities ... the calm, submissive medium-sized dog we thought we were adopting is neither calm nor submissive. We love her, but she is NOT what we thought we were getting, and if we had researched her breed first, we would have realized that before we adopted her.
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Post by shannoots on Mar 24, 2016 11:26:48 GMT
One thing to consider... What will you do with the dog when/if you go out of town? Will a friend/family member take care of the dog? Will you have to board it somewhere?
I am a huge dog lover and begged my husband for 3 years to get one. There are a lot of things to consider but that has always been the trickiest for us. My MIL will watch Lulu but if she's not available, we have to find someone else.
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Post by myboysnme on Mar 24, 2016 12:04:12 GMT
The cute fluffy dogs will require regular grooming, and in the case of my dogs they had to be sedated to be groomed - a nightmare of its own.
Now we have a beagle/pit mix with the sweetest temperament and a delight but I would never ever have chosen her. She chose my son and he brought her home.
For a first time dog I would look seriously at a little bit older mixed breed dog already house trained and temperament is well known, and I would not get into the grooming thing again. Of course if brushing a dog is something you would enjoy then look at those breeds.
Check out various shelters as well because a dog has no say in where it ends up and the perfect dog for you may be at any of the local shelters.
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Post by whipea on Mar 24, 2016 13:38:47 GMT
Thank you for taking your time consider a dog. Sounds like you have put some serious thought into the commitment. The effort you put into the care and training is the reward of enjoying a wonderful dog.
I know you indicated a medium calm, smart and quiet dog but have you considered a Greyhound? A smaller female may weigh less than 60 pounds. They are very calm, quiet, don't shed, smell and do not need to be groomed. Now the smart part, well... But they are super affectionate and it is obvious how grateful they are that you brought them home. Generally they wake up so happy and just are overall joyful dogs.
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Post by Bitchy Rich on Mar 24, 2016 13:45:26 GMT
I would like a small-to-medium (not tiny), calm, smart, quiet dog. Does such a thing exist? I like terrier-type dogs, but a mutt or mix is just fine. We have a backyard and a nice quiet neighborhood for walking. We can afford vet bills and boarding for the occasional times we go out of town. What else do I need to take into consideration? What do dogs need? I have to be sure I can provide what it needs...I do not want to regret the decision. Yes, I think you will be able to find a dog that fits your needs. Older dogs are far less excitable and more laid back, and are less in demand in shelters than young dogs. Not one day have I regretted owning dogs. Not even the day we had to put our 12 year pug down. I get so much joy from those little furry pee machines.
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Post by fruitysuet on Mar 24, 2016 13:55:41 GMT
Thank you for taking your time consider a dog. Sounds like you have put some serious thought into the commitment. The effort you put into the care and training is the reward of enjoying a wonderful dog. I know you indicated a medium calm, smart and quiet dog but have you considered a Greyhound? A smaller female may weigh less than 60 pounds. They are very calm, quiet, don't shed, smell and do not need to be groomed. Now the smart part, well... But they are super affectionate and it is obvious how grateful they are that you brought them home. Generally they wake up so happy and just are overall joyful dogs. I am not a dog person myself, but I was going to suggest greyhound too, as I know two families who rescued retired racing greyhounds.
The first was a lady who suffered from MS and she was advised by the kennel club as this being one of the easiest breeds to deal with in terms of exercising (I know, right?) as they are happy with short walks given that they use a lot of energy in a short space of time. The second family had small children (including a boy with special needs) and they were advised of their gentle nature. Both families when I visited the greyhounds were the least excitable dogs (the second family also had a manic cocker spaniel) I have come across and just wanted to lie their heads on my knee and be petted. If I ever did decide to add a dog to the family this is the breed I would get.
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Deleted
Posts: 0
May 18, 2024 2:17:58 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Mar 24, 2016 13:56:49 GMT
Another thing to consider with breed is how long it will be home alone. Some dog breeds (Bichons come to mind) don't handle alone time well.
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Post by gryroagain on Mar 24, 2016 14:49:21 GMT
You need an older dog, and as luck would have it there are many to choose from! Breed is important, though it isn't ever the true measurement of a dogs personality it can mean a certain temperament or behavior or exercise need you may not mesh with. mutts are healthiest and easiest going.
Grooming is no joke- we have a dog now that needs groomed and it is a big PITA! I never have had a dog that needed more than the occasional bath before, so it's a learning curve, especially since it's a zillion dollars for a large dog where I live. Seriously- 400 dollars. I said no way and bathe and trim my dog myself. He isn't pretty but he is clean and has unmatted fur so who cares, IMO. the dog doesn't! But grooming is a serious time and money consideration.
If you aren't sure a dog is right for your lifestyle, maybe foster for a while and see. Or adopt a senior dog, the time commitment is less by virtue of their age, the training is easy (old dogs do in fact learn new tricks, and much easier than puppies!), the exercise requirements are few. The vet bills are more, and there is heartbreak when they go, but also a special feeling of giving an old guy a loving end. It would be a good way to ease into dog ownership with a dog who is not very demanding, time wise- senior dogs sleep a lot and are happy with pretty much any living situation that isn't a shelter. If you are envisioning long walks than no seniors, but if you are envisioning a companion who will sit with you and is low key, maybe a senior is a good bet?
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Post by BeckyTech on Mar 24, 2016 15:00:34 GMT
I had a dog-aggressive dog and she was wonderful, smart, loving, and the best. Unfortunately, we didn't consider the long-term implications and work on training her out of it when we should have.
I now have two dogs that I can take to the dog park or any pet store and know that they will be fine with other dogs. I really like that. When adopting from a shelter you may need to consider extra training for something like that.
Some other things to consider:
There are some breeds that are very independent and not prone to obedience naturally. Nor are they particularly snugglers. My friend with two Shiba Inu's comes to mind. They would fit your criteria as to size and weight, they are around 30 lbs.
Some breeds, like some in the hound category, can be real "talkers." At the dog park a lot of the parents say they are quiet at home, but really talk a lot at the dog park.
Some breeds drool.
Some breeds have "beards" so when they drink water, you might want to wipe them before they come and put their head in your lap.
Last year a Blue Heeler mix adopted us. I don't know if it is a tendency of the breed, but she is a total snuggler (I love it) and is rarely far from my side. She is just 32 lbs., some say small for her breed, but I need fewer blankets.
You may want to visit your local dog park and talk to people. Of course all that will go out the window when you actually go to the shelter and a dog adopts you.
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Post by bc2ca on Mar 24, 2016 15:01:20 GMT
...I've never owned a dog before, so it's taking a LOT of pondering. I think the right dog could really be a benefit to my life, and I would enjoy giving a shelter doggy a happy life, too. So I have the humane society picked out; my friend got her dog there and gives the place a glowing review. I haven't been to look at dogs yet, because I know how I am--I've gotta be very 100% sure before I go, because if I go I WILL come home with a pet! I would like a small-to-medium (not tiny), calm, smart, quiet dog. Does such a thing exist? I like terrier-type dogs, but a mutt or mix is just fine. We have a backyard and a nice quiet neighborhood for walking. We can afford vet bills and boarding for the occasional times we go out of town. What else do I need to take into consideration? What do dogs need? I have to be sure I can provide what it needs...I do not want to regret the decision. This describes our Maltipoo - plus sweet and loving. The biggest adjustment we had to make was a little loss in flexibility to take off for a day or weekend, but what she had added to our family is more than worth it. Grooming/hair cuts is the biggest regular expense and runs us about $50 every 6-8 weeks. We do go to a small, private groomer that is fabulous. I could learn to clip her myself but haven't taken on that challenge. Everything monklady123 said about how the dog greets you at the door is so true - it is a real treat to have someone so excited to have you come home.
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Post by BeckyTech on Mar 24, 2016 15:23:17 GMT
Here you go! Bark'nBorrow - an app that lets you spend time with a dog not your own: www.fox5ny.com/news/112682240-story
However, as someone mentioned, reputable shelters let you take dogs for walks and they really do want to find a good fit. That is why they have a provision that if it isn't working out for your family, you absolutely MUST return the dog to the shelter. Fostering a dog is also a great way to go.
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MizIndependent
Drama Llama
Quit your bullpoop.
Posts: 5,836
Jun 25, 2014 19:43:16 GMT
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Post by MizIndependent on Mar 24, 2016 15:47:38 GMT
What do dogs need? I have to be sure I can provide what it needs...I do not want to regret the decision. Dogs absolutely need society. By that I mean, YOUR society. They need to be part of your family. A dog will die of despair and loneliness if relegated to the back yard by themselves. Now, if you have two or three dogs together, they have each other and can more easily live together as an outdoor family pack, but if you only want one dog (like we did), I strongly encourage you to make that dog one of the family. You won't regret it. Scientific Proof Your Dog Loves You With All Their Heart And Nose
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Post by yoursweetwhimsy on Mar 24, 2016 15:49:15 GMT
I love that your considering a shelter dog! One major thing to remember is that a lot of dogs don't feel "at home" for two to three weeks, so be patient while everyone is getting acclimated. We get so many returns 24-48 hours after adopting because "it's just not a good fit". Well, the dog didn't really have a chance to relax and show their true personalities. I have a foster now who was awful the first week and now, two weeks in, is awesome. If the dog is timid and scared, sitting on the floor with them is really helpful too because you don't seem so scary. I truly hope the experience works out for you and you can have a new family member!
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Post by **GypsyGirl** on Mar 24, 2016 16:23:23 GMT
Research the breed(s) of any dog you're considering before you fall in love with it. Dogs who are traumatized in the shelter don't always show their true personalities ... the calm, submissive medium-sized dog we thought we were adopting is neither calm nor submissive. We love her, but she is NOT what we thought we were getting, and if we had researched her breed first, we would have realized that before we adopted her. I agree with research different breeds. Even if you get a mixed breed, you will see certain traits. It is very important to know ahead of time what traits you are willing to live with and those that are deal breakers. The more research you do beforehand, the more likely you are to have a successful adoption! You mention "calm, smart, quiet" and then say you like terrier-type dogs. My experience has been that the words "calm, quiet" are rarely ever used when discussing terriers! We've had a rat terrier in the past and my mom had a JRT. I now know I am just not a terrier person. This is where doing your research ahead of time will pay off. Also think about if you want a male or female. You might try taking these online tests that help identify which breeds are a good match for your lifestyle and expectations. Which Breed is RightDog SelectorThen when you have narrowed down the breeds, have a look at the Breed List on AKC.org. You will find detailed information on each breed, including personality traits, grooming needs, and any health issues that are common to the breed. Good luck with your search!
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janeinbama
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,174
Location: Alabama
Jan 29, 2015 16:24:49 GMT
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Post by janeinbama on Mar 24, 2016 16:35:25 GMT
Our 2 current dogs were shelter dogs and were turned in by their owners due to moving. We were able to know a little of their history and ages. I found them online, called the shelter to verify they were still there and we went to "visit". They have a large fenced area where we could sit and watch for a few minutes while they ran some energy off, then we could pet them and walk around with them. We put the 2 together and they have been very happy as have my DH & I.
One of my dogs, Pearl, would have been a perfect fit for you. She is 22 lbs, looks like Tramp from Lady and the Tramp and is very smart.
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Deleted
Posts: 0
May 18, 2024 2:17:58 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Mar 24, 2016 16:36:06 GMT
One of the things I didn't consider was shedding. While I wouldn't trade Stella for the world she sheds like crazy and it's annoying. We vacuum up her hair a few times a week - it's everywhere. No amount of brushing stops the shedding, we have tried it all.
So if you have allergies or get grossed out by dog hair everywhere take shedding into consideration when picking the breed.
Dog training is a must for both you and the dog. We took the training through our vet and it was well worth the money. Dogs need to know who are in charge. Since they are pack animals they need to know who the Alpha is. She knows I'm in charge!
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Post by gmcwife1 on Mar 24, 2016 16:45:20 GMT
Research the breed(s) of any dog you're considering before you fall in love with it. Dogs who are traumatized in the shelter don't always show their true personalities ... the calm, submissive medium-sized dog we thought we were adopting is neither calm nor submissive. We love her, but she is NOT what we thought we were getting, and if we had researched her breed first, we would have realized that before we adopted her. I agree with research different breeds. Even if you get a mixed breed, you will see certain traits. It is very important to know ahead of time what traits you are willing to live with and those that are deal breakers. The more research you do beforehand, the more likely you are to have a successful adoption! You mention "calm, smart, quiet" and then say you like terrier-type dogs. My experience has been that the words "calm, quiet" are rarely ever used when discussing terriers! We've had a rat terrier in the past and my mom had a JRT. I now know I am just not a terrier person. This is where doing your research ahead of time will pay off. Also think about if you want a male or female. You might try taking these online tests that help identify which breeds are a good match for your lifestyle and expectations. I'm not very familiar with the terrier group but my mind thinks it has heard/seen the same thing you have. We have a family in 4-H with a Border Terrier and a JRT. The JRT is fabulous, but he was very well trained under a competition obedience trainer. The Border Terrier is dog aggressive and can not be trusted around the kids either. Another girl has 3 Australian Terriers that she shows AKC and in 4-H. Two of the three are great, very social and loves being part of the club. The oldest has more of the terrier stand off attitude.
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Post by BeckyTech on Mar 24, 2016 16:45:25 GMT
I love that your considering a shelter dog! One major thing to remember is that a lot of dogs don't feel "at home" for two to three weeks, so be patient while everyone is getting acclimated. We get so many returns 24-48 hours after adopting because "it's just not a good fit". Well, the dog didn't really have a chance to relax and show their true personalities. I have a foster now who was awful the first week and now, two weeks in, is awesome. If the dog is timid and scared, sitting on the floor with them is really helpful too because you don't seem so scary. I truly hope the experience works out for you and you can have a new family member! Since I can only like your post once (dang software) I just want to quote you/repost it.
My adoptions have been shelter dogs and they all follow at your heels for the first 2 or 3 weeks paying very close attention to almost every detail. Then they start to get the hang of your routine and where they fit in. In my household, routine revolves around dogs. (Don't criticize, if you have kids, you do the same thing with their school schedule and whatnot). They know what time is dog park time, and so on.
Speaking of which, some manner of regular routine is very important to a dogs' well being. They love to know what to expect and when to expect it. Car rides, however, are welcome anytime. (Well, mostly. Lexi didn't adapt well to the car for several months.)
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Post by gmcwife1 on Mar 24, 2016 17:00:24 GMT
I love that your considering a shelter dog! One major thing to remember is that a lot of dogs don't feel "at home" for two to three weeks, so be patient while everyone is getting acclimated. We get so many returns 24-48 hours after adopting because "it's just not a good fit". Well, the dog didn't really have a chance to relax and show their true personalities. I have a foster now who was awful the first week and now, two weeks in, is awesome. If the dog is timid and scared, sitting on the floor with them is really helpful too because you don't seem so scary. I truly hope the experience works out for you and you can have a new family member! Since I can only like your post once (dang software) I just want to quote you/repost it.
My adoptions have been shelter dogs and they all follow at your heels for the first 2 or 3 weeks paying very close attention to almost every detail. Then they start to get the hang of your routine and where they fit in. In my household, routine revolves around dogs. (Don't criticize, if you have kids, you do the same thing with their school schedule and whatnot). They know what time is dog park time, and so on.
Speaking of which, some manner of regular routine is very important to a dogs' well being. They love to know what to expect and when to expect it. Car rides, however, are welcome anytime. (Well, mostly. Lexi didn't adapt well to the car for several months.)
It's embarrassing to tell people, but my puppy's bedtime is 9:30. He goes to bed in his crate when dh leaves for work. We couldn't take an 8 or 8:30 training class because it was too close to his bedtime. Good thing it's our regular trainer so he just thought it was funny
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Nanner
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,969
Jun 25, 2014 23:13:23 GMT
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Post by Nanner on Mar 24, 2016 17:17:53 GMT
I have a beagle and he's high energy and barks a lot!!!
What I would say to consider:
1. Like others have said - high quality food.
2. We chose to get pet insurance.
3. Find a great boarding kennel / doggy daycare for days or nights you have to leave him. We are so lucky to have found an amazingly wonderful one - the same one for doggy daycare and for boarding. We leave him there 3 days per week while we're at work and we never worry about him when we go away. In fact the one time we left him for over a week, we got an email letter from him half way in!!! (the other 2 days, we leave him at home and a neighbour comes over at noon to let him out to pee).
4. Remember - someone has to pick up the poo in the backyard!!! (Fortunately for me, DH does it).
5. He might be a chewer. Riker chewed through and ruined the electrical for the airbags in our vehicle! (under the seats, accessible from the back seat) We are picking up our new car on Saturday and we lost at least $3,000 on the trade-in value of our car because of it.
6. Dog hair. Holy shit, the dog hair!!! No matter how much I vacuum and dust and such - well there's always dog hair around. So as others have said, count on grooming costs.
But after all of the above, he's worth every penny and every ounce of time and/or energy we spend on him. We love him like crazy and he's a freaking lunatic about us!! The love and loyalty you get from a dog is wonderful.
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Mystie
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 4,299
Jun 25, 2014 19:53:37 GMT
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Post by Mystie on Mar 24, 2016 19:05:08 GMT
I knew you'd all have good things for me to think about! Thanks so much.
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