Would It Be Really Unfair To Get A Puppy, Or Any Dog?

[Guest]

Well I'm a party pooper and I would not recommend a Cavalier. They are bred to be companions and do best when they can fulfill that role. They love to be with their people.

I agree, a Cavalier who's alone for 40 hours a week by itself won't be happy I know of a friend's daughter who has one and it has severe anxiety as a result and just can't handle the alone time, I am sure there are some that are OK but on the whole they were definitely bred to be companions!

That's what I'm desperate to avoid. I would arrange to have time at home with a new puppy, but then I'd worry that it would be even worse when I went off to work for the first time for 10 hours.

Thank you for the link to the mature dogs available Maia. I have looked at them many times. Again I worry about having a mature dog taken out of a home where it has had people around all day and possibly other dogs into a home with just one person who goes off to work for 10 hours. I'm really torn. If I had a bottomless pit of money I would love to get two dogs to keep each other company, but I'd need to work a LOT more hours to make it possible.

[Guest]

in the long run the pup may become acustomed to the time alone though i would agree cavs probably arnt the right breed for u they do crave attention and are needy for lack of a better word :S

Also u will need to take a week or so off work to begin toilet training and let puppy settle in and what not otherwise u might end up getting the pup then diserting it and make it hard to develop the stong bond you are looking for an 8 week old puppy is like a human baby u cant just throw it in a pen and leave it after it has been ripped out of the only home it has ever know and taken away from the only people and dogs it has ever known - it is a rough time on a puppy and u will need to take time to help the little one settle n and this counts for all breeds, i wonder if maybe rescuing might be a better idea? u can get an older cavie or cairn as well though u will have to wait and for some this is hard once the idea of a new family member has entered their minds lol im slowly dying inside waiting to get the right goldie girl for me fingers crossed this time next yr LOL i have been waiting 2 yrs!!

Just my 2 cents lol

I have been looking at the dog rescue sites for some time. So many lovely looking little dogs but again most suggest that the dog needs more socialisation or someone at home to give them lots of activity and stimulation, or teenagers, or older couples. Abandoned Cavs or Cairns are rare (understandably). Also, because I have little crawly grandchildren about I would be a bit worried about any temperament problems a stray might have.

[Her Majesty Dogmad]

I'm someone who has worked with dogs very closely over the last 6 years in particular. I've fostered over 100 dogs for rescue organisations in that time as well. I 've done rehomings and managed foster carers.

I tell you this because it looks like I'm in the minority but I don't agree with having a puppy alone all day. I don't agree with crating the dog either, I think that is particularly unkind actually.

When I've had foster dog issues, it has been with the young ones, barking because I'm out for too long, eg at work. This is in spite of them having each other to play with and an hour's exercise before I leave.

With your lifestyle, I believe you could look at a more mature dog (4+ yrs) but 10 hrs is a long time for dogs to be alone and some dogs don't cope. You can leave the radio on, pay for a dog walker etc, pay for them to go to doggie minders or similar.

We all have to work, it's about getting the right fit for the lifestyle and in my experience, puppies don't work well with full time workers.

[Her Majesty Dogmad]

And any dog can go for children but not if you never give them an opportunity. Crawling babies and dogs don't mix, screaming toddlers are equally a challenge for many poor animals.

Kids come here but my dogs go outside, they are rescued and all have superb temperaments and are actually good with kids but I never compromise them, just in case.

[Guest]

And any dog can go for children but not if you never give them an opportunity. Crawling babies and dogs don't mix, screaming toddlers are equally a challenge for many poor animals.

Kids come here but my dogs go outside, they are rescued and all have superb temperaments and are actually good with kids but I never compromise them, just in case.

I must say that the last dog that I got came from a pound in Tassie. She was the nicest, most gentle and loving dog I have ever had. A few years old and had obviously been abused as she was so frightened every time anyone had a broom/paper/stick in their hand or raised their voice. If I thought I could be so lucky again I wouldn't hesitate to adopt an older dog. I didn't have any grandchildren then and just worry about any possible issues that small children might provoke that may not be the dog's fault. It's hard to keep them separated at all times unless the dog is locked up.

[Her Majesty Dogmad]

posshutt, it doesn't matter whether you get a dog from a breeder or rescue where children are concerned.

Any rescue dog you would take on would need to be properly assessed.

Any dog can go for children, that's my point. It can grow up with you, from a puppy, and still go for kids.

I knew a lady that researched very carefully on breeds because she wanted one that would be a hospital/nursing home visitor. She picked the ideal breed and had the puppy in her lovely home for quite a few months before embarking on the training required. The dog was a disaster, nipping and getting agro with any strangers so was hopeless for the reason she'd purchased the dog for. She didn't get rid of the dog as some would have but did give up her dream.

One of the best breed with children, breed wise, is a greyhound actually. They are so mellow and gentle, it's why they are used in experimentation sadly. They are used as blood donors. They are known for being fantastic dogs but most people wouldn't have a bar of them. They are missing out!

[aussielover]

I'm someone who has worked with dogs very closely over the last 6 years in particular. I've fostered over 100 dogs for rescue organisations in that time as well. I 've done rehomings and managed foster carers.

I tell you this because it looks like I'm in the minority but I don't agree with having a puppy alone all day. I don't agree with crating the dog either, I think that is particularly unkind actually.

When I've had foster dog issues, it has been with the young ones, barking because I'm out for too long, eg at work. This is in spite of them having each other to play with and an hour's exercise before I leave.

With your lifestyle, I believe you could look at a more mature dog (4+ yrs) but 10 hrs is a long time for dogs to be alone and some dogs don't cope. You can leave the radio on, pay for a dog walker etc, pay for them to go to doggie minders or similar.

We all have to work, it's about getting the right fit for the lifestyle and in my experience, puppies don't work well with full time workers.

Do you mean crating for long periods of time? Or do you mean you don't agree with crates at all?

With the right puppy, I think it could work, however you would probably be better off with an older dog.

You should establish a relationship with a great breeder who could pick the right pup for you. Even a slightly older pup (>4 months) may be better as they have more understanding at that age. We got our aussie pup at 5/6 months and she was perfectly fine to be left from 9-5. We did employ a dog walker though to run her in the middle of the day, which kept her happy. she had a big walk before and after school/work and was included in all family activities.

Pups tend to sleep a lot of the day anyway- I never leave Mindy for more than an hour or so, but she sleeps a lot of the day, it is not like she spends all day interacting with me.

Obviously it is ideal to spend as much time as possible with a puppy or dog, but realisitically many people have to work and can't take their dogs with them.

With the right breed and right pup, I believe you could both be happy.

I have never had cavs but we have a few that board with us at work for the day and they don't seem at all stressed by not having company for a large part of the day.

Good Luck with your decision

[persephone]

Posshut- if you put a call out here, in the rescue section, the right adult dog will be there somewhere, I'm sure Rescue people I've seen on here are terrific, conscientious and knowledgeable.

Dogs are usually well assessed, and many are fostered so they can learn to be comfortable again, and also so that their temperament can be well understood.

They are desexed, up to date with any vet work , and you have support

[TsarsMum]

what about a grey hound I LOVE THEM i have meet some absoulutly lovley ones and all where very lazy

i know im going to get shot. but i understand where you are coming from when it comes to getting a resuce and with your grandkids (i have kids of my own and while they are young i wont have a rescue dog)

but there is one expection and that is a greyhound.

[Rebanne]

while I obviously think greyhounds just about walk on water they are still dogs and still need to be matched carefully to the new owners home and lifestyle. Many are not suitable for kids, they have never seen them or interacted with them. Just because they might just lay there and let a kid do whatever does not mean they like what it being done to them. Greyhounds are well known for shutting down, turning into statues, when things happen that they don't like. It's why vets like them, they will just stand there. But it doesn't mean that one day they won't react.

Please people, do not make out that greyhounds are faultless, because they do have faults, they are after all still a dog. Very damn special but still a dog.

[Guest]

Thanks everyone for the great input. Lots to think about. I realise that no dog is ever 100% predictable and that it is often how they are socialised and trained in the first few weeks at home that can be so important. But, I hope that starting with a puppy with the right breed characteristics could be a good start. I had considered a greyhound but I have my pound pussy to think about. She is inclined to make a run for it when any dog appears and a greyhound could be risky. I think I'll need to talk to some breeders and maybe try for an older pup or dog. I'm always watching the rescue sites but would like to have a few weeks notice of a new dog's arrival so I have holidays and everything ready. Most rescue groups won't hold a dog for any length of time. I guess I really like the idea of a gorgeous puppy who I know will arrive in a certain timeframe so I can be really prepared.

[Her Majesty Dogmad]

I guess you do like the idea of a puppy, I'm not sure why you asked the question really, I think you had already decided.

The reasons you give for not wanting a rescue dog, particularly when you have previous experience of an excellent example don't really convince me that you hadn't already made your decision.

Someone referred to my mention of crating being unkind. Yes, I crate 2 of my dogs at night because if I didn't they would be outside barking. They are dogs who can manage with not going to the toilet for many hours but only have to hold on for 6 or so, they are toileted before bedtime and are used to the routine.

During the day, they are free to sun themselves and interact with each other, chase the birds or whatever they want. I believe they are very happy dogs, people often comment on it.

What I really disagree with is having a puppy or other dog locked in a crate during the day, popped out for a few hours during the evening and put back again for the night. A dog is a living thing, not something to be put away when not convenient to have it around in case it does something we don't want it to do.

[Guest]

I guess you do like the idea of a puppy, I'm not sure why you asked the question really, I think you had already decided.

The reasons you give for not wanting a rescue dog, particularly when you have previous experience of an excellent example don't really convince me that you hadn't already made your decision.

Someone referred to my mention of crating being unkind. Yes, I crate 2 of my dogs at night because if I didn't they would be outside barking. They are dogs who can manage with not going to the toilet for many hours but only have to hold on for 6 or so, they are toileted before bedtime and are used to the routine.

During the day, they are free to sun themselves and interact with each other, chase the birds or whatever they want. I believe they are very happy dogs, people often comment on it.

What I really disagree with is having a puppy or other dog locked in a crate during the day, popped out for a few hours during the evening and put back again for the night. A dog is a living thing, not something to be put away when not convenient to have it around in case it does something we don't want it to do.

Well, yes, I would really love a puppy (who wouldn't?). But, no, I haven't decided and am leaning more towards an older dog now. I just thought that with a puppy I hopefully could train and socialise it so that I would know my dog's personality really well. When I had the rescue dog I didn't have grandchildren and there's no guarantee that I would be as fortunate again. I thought of having a crate/bed inside a large playpen with a toileting area and toys etc for during the day when I'm at work and a crate by my bed at night. With lots of time together before and after work and on my non-working days. I wouldn't even consider locking any animal in a crate for 10 hours. I've never had a puppy when I've been working and had no-one else at home, so thought I'd get some input from people who know about the possible effects on the pup.

[Guest]

I guess you do like the idea of a puppy, I'm not sure why you asked the question really, I think you had already decided.

The reasons you give for not wanting a rescue dog, particularly when you have previous experience of an excellent example don't really convince me that you hadn't already made your decision.

Someone referred to my mention of crating being unkind. Yes, I crate 2 of my dogs at night because if I didn't they would be outside barking. They are dogs who can manage with not going to the toilet for many hours but only have to hold on for 6 or so, they are toileted before bedtime and are used to the routine.

During the day, they are free to sun themselves and interact with each other, chase the birds or whatever they want. I believe they are very happy dogs, people often comment on it.

What I really disagree with is having a puppy or other dog locked in a crate during the day, popped out for a few hours during the evening and put back again for the night. A dog is a living thing, not something to be put away when not convenient to have it around in case it does something we don't want it to do.

Well Dogmad, you'll be pleased to hear that after much soul searching and reading and looking at PetRescue and animal shelter sites, I realise that rehoming an older dog is the way to go. After all, the most beautiful natured dog I've ever had came from the pound and there must be another one like her out there. Probably dozens. Yes, I really loved the IDEA of a gorgeous pure breed puppy but my working hours made it unfair to the dog. Now I can get on with preparing for my new friend. And, I actually feel happier at having made that choice.

Hope I come home with another angel too.

[Gretel]

I hope you find a wonderful new friend :D Good on you for giving a rescue dog a new home!

[Pointees]

I have two high energy breeds.

I work shift work, so we don't have a proper routine.

If I start late, then we go for a walk and a game of fetch at the oval in the morning, come home for lunch (they get a bone) and I sit outside with them and have a coffee. We do some gardening, clean the house, washing, etc.

If I start early, we do all the same stuff, only in the afternoon.

Great to hear about rescuing. :D

[Guest]

Now that I've decided on a rescue dog, wouldn't you know it that I've seen a beautiful little terrier boy who Looks just lovely (several in fact). Wish I was ready to adopt. So much to buy and prepare. He looks so much like my lovely cairn terrier who now lives with my ex. 'cos he's home all day every day and the two of them are inseperable. Visited him today and would just love another one like him (the cairn terrier, not my ex!!!!). Mr. Personality plus. But just so gorgeous.

[Guest]

I hope you find a wonderful new friend Good on you for giving a rescue dog a new home!

I'm sur eI will but I MUST stop looking at those lovely CAVS of yours. I can't see one of those turning up at the pound. I wish!

[Guest]

Now that I've decided on a rescue dog, wouldn't you know it that I've seen a beautiful little terrier boy who Looks just lovely (several in fact). Wish I was ready to adopt. So much to buy and prepare. He looks so much like my lovely cairn terrier who now lives with my ex. 'cos he's home all day every day and the two of them are inseperable. Visited him today and would just love another one like him (the cairn terrier, not my ex!!!!). Mr. Personality plus. But just so gorgeous.

Well, I've been out today looking at a couple of dog shelters and I feel just so sad. I left both of them with tears in my eyes and feeling none too proud to be a human. Now I remember how depressed I felt the last time I was looking to rescue a dog. The expressions on those dogs faces were heartbreaking. Some were growling at me and some were just shaking with fear. The rest just looked either hopeless or were trying desperately to get through the cage door for a pat. I just hope I find the right little dog soon and don't have to look into the pleading eyes of too many more of those unhappy dogs.

[Elsha_UK_AU]

I have 2 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, D'Artagnan is 20 months and we got him at nearly 13 months and Porthos is nearly 8 months and we got him at 10 weeks. We work full time and knowing that the breed are predominantely companian dogs, we wanted to make sure that they were not alone (as in, 1 on their own). D'Artagnan had around 20 other Dogs at the breeders and was a very nervous, timid dog. The breeders we spoke with had no problem allowing us 2 Dogs/Puppies but agreed one should not be left alone.

We leave the house around 7.30am and Husband gets home around 5.15pm - we may go out again for another hour 1-2 times a week to the gym, besides that the weekly grocery shop (Sat morning) and the odd night out, we are home with them and they are our "focus". Our two sleep in our room, have plenty of snuggle time with us in the mornings and have adapted well to a routine. They know when I am getting them their "Treats" in the morning that it is time for work and they run and jump onto their dog bed in the laundry and sit waiting :D

Whilst it is not ideal - it works for us and they are happy and healthy. D'Artagnan is still a nervous, timid dog to a degree but as long as he has his little buddy - life is good

Susan