Great Dog For First Dog Owners

[Steve]

I may be wrong, but I think just about any breed needs at least a daily walk. If not for exercise then for mental stimulation. The dogs don't have the Internet or tv like we do, so imagine being indoors for more than 24 hrs. I think I would go abit loopy if it were me ;).

Not going for walks being dragged by the neck around the block isnt the same as being indoors all day. Depends on where you live your set up and the breed as to whether or not its an issue.

[minimax]

I may be wrong, but I think just about any breed needs at least a daily walk. If not for exercise then for mental stimulation. The dogs don't have the Internet or tv like we do, so imagine being indoors for more than 24 hrs. I think I would go abit loopy if it were me ;).

Not going for walks being dragged by the neck around the block isnt the same as being indoors all day. Depends on where you live your set up and the breed as to whether or not its an issue.

My pugs are happier playing with me in the backyard than going for a walk. They prefer the interactive play to walking. So, no. Not all dogs need daily walks! Regular interaction, stimulation and excercise, but not necessarily walks.

[Airedaler]

My suggestion is that you visit some dog shows and have a look at different breeds. You will see a huge range and will be able to speak to several breeders and owners of various breeds. Some will take your eye others not. It is my belief that the first thing that draws us to a dog is that we like the look of it. Very few people buy a dog thay do not like the look of, we then explore the good and bad of that breed and make a decision as to whether it is suitable for us. I think all dog people I know love the look of various breeds but for one reason or another discard them from their choice.

I do not believe you should feel obligated to get an older dog. Many people seem to like to try and "guilt" people into saving an older dog. There is no doubt that a puppy is a steep learning curve for first time dog owners but the vast majority who take it on manage quite well. There are also at times massive challanges with an older dog too.

If, however, that is what you would like to do and you think would be the best option then go for it! It kis your decision, no one elses.

We all started somewhere, I venture to suggest MOST dog owners started with a puppy and together they learnt. Sure they stuffed up sometimes but that is the learning process. If you start with an already trained dog how are you going to learn the basics of living with a puppy? I fear for the pure bred world in the not too distant future as so many breeders want to put so many controls on the stock they breed. Protecting them is one thing. Controlling the aspects of ownership is another all together and had those controls been imposed on them when they started out then they would not have pure bred dogs in many cases.

Best of luck with your searching, don't be in a hurry but be ready to make as informed decision as you can.

[Airedaler]

multi post- sorry I think this has come through 4 times!!!!!

Edited November 19, 2012 by Airedaler

[Airedaler]

number 2 of 4

Edited November 19, 2012 by Airedaler

[Airedaler]

Am I not able to delete a post? Sorry again folks

Edited November 19, 2012 by Airedaler

[Salukifan]

Airedaler:

I do not believe you should feel obligated to get an older dog. Many people seem to like to try and "guilt" people into saving an older dog. There is no doubt that a puppy is a steep learning curve for first time dog owners but the vast majority who take it on manage quite well. There are also at times massive challanges with an older dog too.

Agree. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to raise a pup well. A bit of effort is all thats required :)

Edited November 19, 2012 by Haredown Whippets

[Steve]

I wont get an older dog . I like limited risk and like to start with a clean slate just in case and I love raising puppies so I think that is less hard work than training an older dog to come around to my house rules and the like.

Forget about the dogs for a minute and take a look at you and your lifestyle what you expect to do with a dog and what you would rathe avoid

For example I know if I had a breed that required lots of grooming I would not like that - its not something I enjoy and could afford a professional groomer.

Im not that fussed on high end training nor do I have time for long walks consistently daily with the dog.

Ive chosen my breeds to suit me, where I live, my family and other commitments in life knowing they don't suit everyone.

Edited November 19, 2012 by Steve

[noisymina]

I started out with an older dog - with needs - and have never looked back.

I actually prefer taking on an older dog. One we got was an obedience "champion" before she was re-homed. The last Dobe was a real handful - but became sooooo beautiful! I get a great deal of satisfaction from gaining the trust and loyalty of an older dog.

Old dogs DO learn!

I'm one of them! :laugh:

Horses for courses. What suits your situation, time available (long term), the effort you are willing to put in - etc.