what dog?

Kimberley82

I am hoping to get a dog next year. We have 2 children and a cat. We need to replace the fences in the garden first and a few other things. My husband works but I only work part time and will be about lots. The children are 7 and 8.

I am unsure what bread to go for, where is a good place to get information and different breads?

Jen151

Hiya

get some good books & start doing your research! One to recommend is The Perfect Puppy by Gwen Bailey.

As for the breed, it depends on your lifestyle. Are you very outdoorsy and could you give the dog hours of excercise each day. Or would you prefer a more companion dog that has a couple of shorter walks during the day and maybe longer ones at weekends.

GillM

Kimberley82 wrote: »

I am hoping to get a dog next year. We have 2 children and a cat. We need to replace the fences in the garden first and a few other things. My husband works but I only work part time and will be about lots. The children are 7 and 8.

I am unsure what bread to go for, where is a good place to get information and different breads?

Um - I think you mean 'breed'? (Bread being what you have with butter!)

Have you thought of a rescue dog? Rescue centres will usually give you a lot of helpful advice as well. What does your cat think of dogs? Would probably suggest you don't go for a toy breed as they can be less tolerant of children teasing them. Your library should have books on different breeds of dogs - there is at least one (sorry, can't remember name but I'm sure librarian could help) which gives different breeds ratings in terms of how much exercise they need, how much grooming, how well they get on with children, whether the breed is known for any health problems etc. Reading through one of those will give you somewhere to start.

Good luck

concerned43

Labs - Labs - Labs:j

jenhug

can't go wrong with a big slobbery Mastiff!

ickle_me

Boxers make a very good family member. VERY good with children - they are known for this:beer:

Labs are good too, but not as as good as a Boxer:D

Griizelda

Flat coated retrievers = good with children, cats, other dogs, people (but not spiders.........)

Kimberley82

jenhug wrote: »

can't go wrong with a big slobbery Mastiff!

My mum has one but not sure I could fit one into my house lol.

GillM

ickle_me wrote: »

Boxers make a very good family member. VERY good with children - they are known for this:beer:

Labs are good too, but not as as good as a Boxer:D

Boxers are gorgeous - I've had two - but they are very hard work!

Tropez

I'd visit a rescue centre and see what the staff there have to say as everybody will have their own idea about the perfect family dog and rescue centers will be able to offer advice about the temperament of the dogs they have available.

Given the ages of your children, I would also recommend not getting a puppy.

getcarter

Staffy (looking around for my 3rd!)