To Get A Puppy Or Not?

[poodlefan]

oh who cares if she says yellow or golden really.

constantly correcting the OP makes us sound like awful stuck up dog snobs

I think it matters in helping potential puppy buyers sort the wheat from the chaff in terms of breeders. There are "Golden Labrador" pups advertised online and in the Trading Post every week. Use of that term tells you the sellers really don't know much about their breed.

But yes, the point has been made. Perhaps people aren't reading all the posts before responding?

[megan_]

do it.

1st pup with the kids was a whippet.

I know all breeds need training and any breed can be boistrous, but there's a huge difference between owning a labrador pup and a whippet pup, esp when it comes to children in the household.

I'd be more inclined to wait until the youngest child is at least 4yo. Preferalby older though. Just my opinion.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Agree. You have to remember that labs are working dogs and are very active. With 3 young kids, how much exercise and training can you honestly give it? Some people can give enough, some people can't, only you will know...

ETA: and I agree with PF - what are you looking for in a dog? what can you give it?

Labs are great dogs for the right people, but there are many labs in rescue because people thought they are great family dogs that don't need much training or exerecise.

Edited September 13, 2010 by megan_

[~Shepherd~]

do it.

1st pup with the kids was a whippet.

I know all breeds need training and any breed can be boistrous, but there's a huge difference between owning a labrador pup and a whippet pup, esp when it comes to children in the household.

I'd be more inclined to wait until the youngest child is at least 4yo. Preferalby older though. Just my opinion.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Agree. You have to remember that labs are working dogs and are very active. With 3 young kids, how much exercise and training can you honestly give it? Some people can give enough, some people can't, only you will know...

ETA: and I agree with PF - what are you looking for in a dog? what can you give it?

Labs are great dogs for the right people, but there are many labs in rescue because people thought they are great family dogs that don't need much training or exerecise.

we have a GSD also, got her as an older pup. Not at all hard to manage if you get your priorities right.

[megan_]

Maybe for you Chewy, but not all mums are super mums. No need to project on the OP - she can have a think about the factors hereself.

Edited September 13, 2010 by megan_

[~Shepherd~]

Maybe for you Chewy, but not all mums are super mums. No need to project on the OP - she can have a think about the factors hereself.

nothing to do with being a super mum. Its a dog for goodness sake, you dont have to be Einstein to work it all out.

[poodlefan]

Maybe for you Chewy, but not all mums are super mums. No need to project on the OP - she can have a think about the factors hereself.

nothing to do with being a super mum. Its a dog for goodness sake, you dont have to be Einstein to work it all out.

Strangely Chewy, significant numbers of the population either can't work it out or can't be bothered to try.

Adolescent Labs can be a handful and the number surrendered and rehomed is testament to that. Yes, a dedicated dog owner can pretty much raise any breed well around kids. Sadly not all dog owners are dedicated and more don't realise the importance of teaching bite inhibition or manners to puppies.

We don't know the OP's expectations for a dog, nor do we know what sort of effort she's prepared to put in. Once we know that, more useful advice can be given.

[Starkehre]

A couple of great posts PF

[~Shepherd~]

Maybe for you Chewy, but not all mums are super mums. No need to project on the OP - she can have a think about the factors hereself.

nothing to do with being a super mum. Its a dog for goodness sake, you dont have to be Einstein to work it all out.

Strangely Chewy, significant numbers of the population either can't work it out or can't be bothered to try.

Adolescent Labs can be a handful and the number surrendered and rehomed is testament to that. Yes, a dedicated dog owner can pretty much raise any breed well around kids. Sadly not all dog owners are dedicated and more don't realise the importance of teaching bite inhibition or manners to puppies.

We don't know the OP's expectations for a dog, nor do we know what sort of effort she's prepared to put in. Once we know that, more useful advice can be given.

I am aware of that and see it all the time. THe OP post sounds responsible, actually here to seek expert advice prior to purchasing a PB Lab. I get your point, she is obviously looking for a family dog, so perhaps other breed suggestions would be of use to her also.

My Whippet was a bigger pain in the arse that the GSD at the same age. Personality has a lot to do with it also , not just the breed, so focusing on thorough investigation of the breed of choices parentage would also be of benefit to the OP.

[poodlefan]

I am aware of that and see it all the time. THe OP post sounds responsible, actually here to seek expert advice prior to purchasing a PB Lab. I get your point, she is obviously looking for a family dog, so perhaps other breed suggestions would be of use to her also.

I get asked about "good family dogs" all the time.

To some folk a "good family dog" is basically a furry garden statue with an off/off switch.. something that will play nicely with the kids but not demand attention at any other time, not enter the house, shed, bark, require exercise.

And sadly, there are puppy sellers who'll let buyers believe that such dogs exist. No dog is "naturally obedient". No dog is naturally "great with kids". These attributes require development through time, effort, socialisation and training.

The pup that sees the kids a couple of times a week, is taught chasing games and no bite inhibiton or manners is the puppy that will be in rescue 7-10 months later.

Edited September 14, 2010 by poodlefan

[TsarsMum]

hey, I am a mum of 3 kids 8, 3 and 10 months

When i was preg i got my rotti boy, he was amazing with my daughter and right up til he got sick and was PTS he was the most careing and loveing dog to childeren. he did knock my daughter over a couple of times and we did tell him off and guess what he learnt to watch where he was going after that.

Now im the proud owner of a samoyed boy, i was very up front with my breeder that i have young kids he did not mind and this boy apart from haveing to teach him that the baby is not his play mate (he tries to play puppy games with him lol) he has so far been great with the kids.

Do i think a lab is a good idea, this is a hard one .............maybe maybe not they are GREAT pets when trained and worked with but not are monsters. i think if you are willing to do the work then go for it !!! I train my pup when bubs asleep mainly or i take him out the back where he loves to be and train the dog with bub playing out there. like someone said it is not rocket scince.

Maybe look at other breeds are well unless you are set on a lab. and also im going to say get a pup unless you can get one you know where its been so to speak (i know im going to get shot for this) you dont want anyone eles problems to deal with it will make life much more work.

and reserch reserch reserch

[Christina]

Honestly think that wrong breed for the wrong home is not the reason for so many dogs being got rid of.

I think people have unrealistic expectations of what it is like to own a puppy or dog. They don't realise its work & effort, no dog is perfect. People want convenience & what they see on TV, that is not real life but some think it is.

Pups like children make a mess, destroy things, cry, demand & need patience, time & teaching to reach sensible adult hood.

Its the age of instant perfection with many experts saying do it this way & its easy.

With some dogs it is & with others it is not & that is not always relevant to the breed.

Not rocket science to know that large dog can bowl little ones over, small breed can get squashed/injured by children.

Breed knowledge is important but it is not the whole issue. Its peoples attitudes.

[Nekhbet]

Honestly think that wrong breed for the wrong home is not the reason for so many dogs being got rid of.

I think people have unrealistic expectations of what it is like to own a puppy or dog. They don't realise its work & effort, no dog is perfect. People want convenience & what they see on TV, that is not real life but some think it is.

Pups like children make a mess, destroy things, cry, demand & need patience, time & teaching to reach sensible adult hood.

Its the age of instant perfection with many experts saying do it this way & its easy.

With some dogs it is & with others it is not & that is not always relevant to the breed.

Not rocket science to know that large dog can bowl little ones over, small breed can get squashed/injured by children.

Breed knowledge is important but it is not the whole issue. Its peoples attitudes.

To the original poster here are a few things to consider

- how much time do you have for a dog. Is it a little bit here and there, do you rush between care, work, kids after school activities etc

- why do you feel your family is ready for a dog? Will it come inside or will it be outside all the time and only played with when the kids feel like going outside?

- are you active people ready for your choice of breed? Labradors are retrievers, bred to be on the go and active. Do you have time to fulfill the dogs need for mental stimulation and training (this means more then just a walk a day)

- if you want a puppy - are you ready for another baby. It's the same thing as having another child learning, time and effort wise. Turn your back and they will be into mischeif!

Actually I think labradors are a dog for a narrower scope of family then they are given credit for. They are a big, boistrous active dog that wants to do things and if they dont will make their own fun (digging, chewing etc) They also require a decent amount of training to be happy. Many people see them as guide dogs and think, wow they're born that way! Eeeep .. no. Many many months of training goes into that and only in those that pass initial assessments.

If you have not owned a dog before something out of its puppy stage would be my recommendation unless you are particularly dedicated to a pup. Older dogs can still easily bond with their new owners, but a lot of the hard work can have been done for you which is great. Also some breeders have older pups or adults available for rehoming, something else to consider.

Apart from that maybe a smaller, more homely companion breed if you are keen on a dog but do not have the time for an overly active one.

[shells]

As long as you can train your children as well as your puppy

My dogs are better behaved than my toddler LOL

We got our 2 when my youngest was 6 months old but they are Miniature Poodles and werent big, bouncy Lab puppies.

It was/is hard work but we put the effort in and now have 2 great dogs who are very good with both my kids (and hopefully number 3 who is on the way)

I too would recommend and older dog (you can find them here on this website under mature dogs or look at Lab Rescue). I dont know if I would buy another puppy again in a hurry.

Have you thought about a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Cocker Spaniel - they require some grooming but I have found them to be great family pets.

Also I have heard of Golden Retrievers x Labradors referred to as "Golden Labradors" but I hoping the OP means Yellow Labs and not a fancy named crossbreed

[aussielover]

I feel labs do best when they can be included in all activities.

They can be quite a full on choice, especially if you don't know what you're in for (ie be prepared for the worst).

I think they could be the right dog for you if you have the time and patience for training and discipline as well as exercise. They are lovely, fun dogs with great potential in the right homes

An older lab that has been socialised with children might be a better choice if you don't have the time or energy for a puppy.

One of Mindy's (my lab puppy) was rehomed to a more experienced person becuase he was too much for the owner and her 4 year old son to handle (jumping, biting etc). Its pretty hard to ignore jumping and biting, and thats for adults! So it would be very difficult for a young child to understand and follow instruction regarding the puppy (ime)

[Staff'n'Toller]

It also pays to remember that Guide Dogs have been breeding their own lines for temperament, for decades now. They only breed from the dogs according to their needs. Many Labs from registered breeders have field dogs in their not-so-distant family lines.

You really need to do your research and choose a pup from a sire and dam that you absolutely love before you jump in.

[Maddy]

Personally, I believe education of the potential owner is far more important than the ages of children concerned. Older children can still be bitten by incorrectly handled dogs.

No offense intended to the OP but if I were you, I'd put off getting a dog until you've put in the time to educate yourself regarding the breed chosen. Once you actually know what the breed is called (and a bit more about usual temperament and behaviour), maybe then you could consider getting one

How rude, who cares about the name its the home that matters.

Im sure the lab will get a lot more love and attention than many large scale breeders and animal collectors I know. Our rescue has placed a WGSD 8 month old pup in to a home with six kids including toddlers. We have a waiting list of over 15 people just in Melbourne, and our rehoming condition with this pup was that he must go to a home with kids.

They are first time GSD owners, and this dog is thriving. A good breeder and rescue will educate, prepare and support their buyers so there is no confusion as to what they are getting and also be available to support their buyers during 'difficult' situations.

Thinking a home is not worthy of getting a pup due to describing a colour of a coat is BS. Most of the average dog owners I know would call a yellow lab gold. Who cares?

Squid, she asked for opinions, I gave mine. That's the point of posting on a forum to ask for opinions, is it not?

If you have a problem with my opinion, that's fine but at least have the courtesy to respond politely and concisely with your rebuttal, rather than just calling me rude (which is a little bit hypocritical, given your reply ).

I happen to disagree with your opinion but you'll note I refrained from insulting you or your opinion.

[mokhahouse]

I have two labradors, one we got as a pup the other at a year of age. My biggest concern for adding a lab into your situation is whether your children will be old enough not to leave toys and potentially hazardous things where the pup can get them. Not all labs will eat anything, one of mine does, it does not have to be edible. It is a lot of work to make sure the house is Mokha proof as he still has a passion for eating things and he is 2. Molly has not been such a problem. My kids are 17 through 23 and they are hopeless about leaving things lying around. I think this is one reason you can not compare having a lab pup to lots of other breeds that dont have this compulsion to eat. When my 2 year old nephew is here I do have to watch carefully as their tails are right at eye level and if they get boisterous it is easy for one to knock a small child over, though they would never do it deliberately of course.

ETA An older, say 3 year old lab I think would be much easier for you, Molly is nearly 3 now and has settled down beautifully.She is great with the kids.

Edited September 14, 2010 by mokhahouse

[chellz]

hey, I am a mum of 3 kids 8, 3 and 10 months

When i was preg i got my rotti boy, he was amazing with my daughter and right up til he got sick and was PTS he was the most careing and loveing dog to childeren. he did knock my daughter over a couple of times and we did tell him off and guess what he learnt to watch where he was going after that.

Now im the proud owner of a samoyed boy, i was very up front with my breeder that i have young kids he did not mind and this boy apart from haveing to teach him that the baby is not his play mate (he tries to play puppy games with him lol) he has so far been great with the kids.

Do i think a lab is a good idea, this is a hard one .............maybe maybe not they are GREAT pets when trained and worked with but not are monsters. i think if you are willing to do the work then go for it !!! I train my pup when bubs asleep mainly or i take him out the back where he loves to be and train the dog with bub playing out there. like someone said it is not rocket scince.

Maybe look at other breeds are well unless you are set on a lab. and also im going to say get a pup unless you can get one you know where its been so to speak (i know im going to get shot for this) you dont want anyone eles problems to deal with it will make life much more work.

and reserch reserch reserch

wow you are a super mum.. you give me hope!! hehehe Thankyou for your advice

[TsarsMum]

hey, I am a mum of 3 kids 8, 3 and 10 months

When i was preg i got my rotti boy, he was amazing with my daughter and right up til he got sick and was PTS he was the most careing and loveing dog to childeren. he did knock my daughter over a couple of times and we did tell him off and guess what he learnt to watch where he was going after that.

Now im the proud owner of a samoyed boy, i was very up front with my breeder that i have young kids he did not mind and this boy apart from haveing to teach him that the baby is not his play mate (he tries to play puppy games with him lol) he has so far been great with the kids.

Do i think a lab is a good idea, this is a hard one .............maybe maybe not they are GREAT pets when trained and worked with but not are monsters. i think if you are willing to do the work then go for it !!! I train my pup when bubs asleep mainly or i take him out the back where he loves to be and train the dog with bub playing out there. like someone said it is not rocket scince.

Maybe look at other breeds are well unless you are set on a lab. and also im going to say get a pup unless you can get one you know where its been so to speak (i know im going to get shot for this) you dont want anyone eles problems to deal with it will make life much more work.

and reserch reserch reserch

wow you are a super mum.. you give me hope!! hehehe Thankyou for your advice

No super mum thats for sure (just look at my house ) but i just do bits at a time when i can and i have pup inside with me and the kids. He is going to be crate trained we are getting there he goes out the back to be a dog and he comes inside. The biggest thing is getting distracted with the kids and the dog does an ooopsy inside but i have my 8 year old trained as well now she takes him out and asks him to go. so as soon as i can see that distraction is coming she takes him to the loo or he is put out the back.

He has lots of toys and he comes back when i can split my attention again.

good luck in your choice you can do it

oh and my partner works away so only get adult help when he is home if thats what his help is

Edited September 14, 2010 by dogluva101

[poochiemama]

I fell into dog ownership in quite a naive way and got a chocolate labrador because it was 'cute', and I am ashamed to say, did not have much more of an idea than what the average person has about labradors...those cute puppies in ads, the guide dogs etc. MANY people fall into dog ownership this way and have these sort of ideas about dogs, and I don't think that should be criminalised it's what you do about it when you do have a dog that counts.

For the first two months we had charlie as a puppy, i was completely and utterly overwhelmed; he was CONSTANTLy on the move, full of energy, chewing everything, digging. The worst thing was awful nipping and biting at our clothes. I got to the point where i was quite frightened he was going to bite me.

And then I committed to learning everything I could about labradors and worked so hard on training him. It was such a steep learning curve and I'm still learning. We worked on him on stopping the nipping and biting, stopped his jumping, toilet trained him and channelled his energy into doing other things. So now he knows heaps of tricks, he's so much calmer and he's the happiest dog around. The best, best thing we did was soon after we got him, after trying to keep him as an 'outside' dog, where he was unhappy and barking all the time, we brought him IN and his bond with us and behaviour completely changed and we were so much happier too (although the house is messier).

I just completely adore him now and he's my best buddy. But they were really trying days, those first two months (and it could have been longer if we hadn't started educating ourselves). He's now just hit adolescence and I know it will be another trying time but we are more aware now of what we should be doing.

My point is, I think if i had young children, the time commitment to train a dog fully and exercise it adequately, i don't know if i could have done that. Many people can, but in our case, I think it would have been too much. And also, there would be a constant fear that my kids would be the victim of the nipping or biting problems.

I think as people have suggested, an older labrador or dog from rescue may be a better option than a puppy.

Charlie is now the most even tempered, well-mannered and beautiful dog. Nothing fazes him and kids at the park love him and play with him and he is very gentle with them. BUT if this was the same time last year, he would have been too full-on for them.

Haven't heard from the OP on all the comments, would be nice to get her opinions now on this.