Thinking of getting a dog - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

dualman7 · 02-09-2005, 08:28 PM

I am going to be moving out soon, and I want to get a dog. I am thinking of a boxer. I don't know too much about breeds, so what's close to a boxer?

Also,
1. how much should i expect to spend,
2. what should I look for when picking out a dog? Are there traits to look for? or just go with your instincts?

I'm naming him Tyson.

Many thanks.

K-Wise · 02-09-2005, 08:45 PM

Make sure ya get him a doggy shirt

Like this one

Thats all you need to know.

Asta!!

Psycho Dad · 02-09-2005, 08:48 PM

Go to the animal shelter and get a free one. Many of the dogs there are going to be just as good if not better pets than some overpriced, puppy-mill bred, high dollar dog.

shakran · 02-09-2005, 08:57 PM

woah woah. You need to slow down. Getting a dog is never something that should be done on a whim - you're talking about taking on 12 to 16 years of responsibility for a creature that will depend on you for everything.

What is your living situation? Apartments aren't good for larger dogs, and even smaller dogs still need somewhere to run.

What is your work situation? Are you planning on getting a puppy and then leaving it at home for 10 hours at a time while you work? Is that fair to the puppy?

I'm not trying to rag on you, but your post shows that you need to learn a LOT more about dogs before getting one.

To answer your questions more specifically, though, you should expect to pay between $300 and $1000 for a good purebred animal from a reputable breeder.

You should ONLY get animals from a reputable breeder or from the animal shelter. NEVER buy a puppy from a pet store - most of their animals come from puppy mills, which are nothing but cruel animal abusers - http://www.hsus.org/pets/issues_affe...lls/index.html

You should never "go with your instincts" - you should research breeds to find the breed characteristics that are most compatible with you. Then you need to research the breeders you are considering to make sure they are working to eliminate genetic problems, otherwise you could wind up with a very sick pup on your hands.

Bottom line, dogs are perpetual 2 year olds, and they require every bit as much care and attention as a human 2 year old. If you don't know what you're in for, you'll end up with a bad situation for both you and the puppy.

amonkie · 02-09-2005, 09:16 PM

Another point to add to those to consider:

What is your financial situation? The bigger the dog, the more food they eat. Also, what is the weather like where you are? Take into account the environment the dog will be in - if it's extremely cold out, will it have enough fur to stay warm?

Also, are you going to be living in a situation where there may be small children or someone with allergies? Be aware of the people around you.

maleficent · 02-10-2005, 05:06 AM

Plus there's also medical care for the dog. Both yearly checkups (with shots) and any emergencies that come up.

Most pure breeds have rescue organizations that you can get dogs thru, but, rightfully so, they are pretty intensive processes, kind of like adopting a child. These rescue organizations love their animals, and aren't going to give a dog to just anyone.

All over the web are surveys you can take about both what pet is right for you and what breed of dog is right for you.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 06:14 AM

Also, there's the time and money and effort to put into correctly training your dog. Granted, PetSmart and other retail chains offer fairly decent basic obedience classes for reasonable rates, but are you willing to put in the time and effort to train the dog?

Another thing I'd like to add is that you should really, really think about rescuing a dog from a shelter or the pound. Mixed breed dogs are usually the most even keeled and have fewer medical problems. You'll save the life of a dog who needs a home, and there are so many who need homes, you'll be able to find one that suits your particular needs.

I don't have kids, I have dogs. My babies are the center of my life. No, I don't have to find a sitter to go out to eat, but there are a lot of things that I have to remember when caring for my dogs that people with kids don't have to think about... My dogs can't tell me what's wrong when they don't feel good. It takes time and dedication to be around a dog enough to learn their signals and know how to read what they are telling you. They have to be fed and walked and taken out to potty... They can't fix themselves a bowl of cereal or go to the bathroom on their own. You have to be able to dedicate time to spend with your dog... Yes, they'll chew on a toy by themselves, but they live to play with you.

They can be an absolute joy.... I wouldn't know what to do without mine. They make my life better just by being themselves. They give me all of themselves, without reservation, and they always love me. You owe it not only to yourself but to your future dog to give choosing him or her all the effort and consideration that they deserve.

dualman7 · 02-10-2005, 06:27 AM

thanks guys.

I live in New York. The financial situation should be fine, as my parents will help out caring for it. My dad loves animals and will probably care for it better than he did for me lol. I am thinking of getting one from a local pet shop. Will the price include all of the necessary shots and etc? Or will I find out like a month later that there's more required? I would not mind having it trained at all. I have never had a dog, so forgive me if this sound cruel, but is it okay to leave it home alone in a cage for like 6 hours? Are there better ways to do it? Maybe setup a small space and block it out...

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 06:38 AM

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!! DO NOT BUY A PUPPY FROM A PET STORE!!!

Please.... If you MUST have a pure breed puppy, do some research and find a REPUTABLE breeder. You'll possibly pay more for the puppy, but usually first puppy shots are included, the dog will be socialized and you'll not be contributing to puppy mills.

Be prepared. A pure bred puppy will cost you between $300 and $1000 (depending on the breed). Then, even if the first shots are included, puppies need shots several times the first year. You could spend upward of $1500 to $2000 on the puppy the first year, more if you include food, supplies, a crate, obedience training....

I do recommend you crate train the dog. But to do that, you will need to be available to spend time with the dog. You can't just put a puppy in a crate and expect them to take to it all at once. Puppies have to learn to go out to do their business, and that requires time and attention, too.

My own opinion is that if you are not able to care for a dog 100% all by yourself, then you are not ready for one.

lurkette · 02-10-2005, 06:41 AM

DO NOT go from a local pet shop - most of them are outlets for puppy mills. If you're going to go with a purebred, shell out the money for a reputable breeder. I'm going to second people's call for rescuing a dog from a shelter or breed rescue - you'll be saving a dog's life, essentially, and you're just as likely if not more so to get a loving dog with a good temperament.

In terms of the breed that's right for you, do some research on places like dogbreedinfo.com, and there's a dog breed selector on selectsmart.com. You'll want to be brutally honest about the amount of time you're willing to spend caring for and training the dog, how much time it'll spend alone, how much exercise you're willing to give it. It doesn't sound like a boxer is right for you - they need lots of exercise and lots of attention, and they hate being left alone. I have a friend with a boxer - he left her alone locked in the bathroom while he was at work for a few hours and he came home to find that she had chewed/clawed THROUGH the fucking wall and was running around the back yard. Luckily it was fenced. They are highly energetic, muscular dogs and they require firm training. If you're a first-time dog owner I would suggest something less energetic and perhaps less demanding of training.

If you're getting a puppy, you will not be able to leave it crated for 6 hours at first. The general rule of thumb is that up to about a year, they can go without peeing/pooping for a number of hours equal to their age in months plus one. So if you get an 8 week old puppy, they're going to need to go outside literally every 3-4 hours.

I can not stress enough that this is not something to be done lightly. Lots of people just get a dog without really knowing what they're in for, and they end up with neurotic, bored, badly-behaved dogs that they can't live with, and the saddest thing is it's the human's fault for not taking care of and training the dog properly but it's the dog that ends up at the pound. Please consider carefully whether you are really ready for a dog or not.

k9trainingbiz · 02-10-2005, 06:41 AM

Hi dualman,
new to this forum, am dog trainer, know very well about working breeds, 2 dobermans of my own. Boxers are wonderful, faithful, loyal and obedient pets. They will do anything for you, provided you get good obedience training (a must!) and spend a lot of time with them. I would seriously think twice about getting ANY dog if you are gone all day at work. They won't do well, and you will be unhappy. That's how most dogs end up in the shelter. Dogs are social animals that wither without pretty constant companionship. Dogs take a lot of time and energy and patience. If you can commit to all this, you will likely have a happy, long and rewarding relationship. But if you can't, please think of the animal's welfare before your own.
If you have any questions at all, please email me at k9trainingbiz@comast.net.
Good luck!

dualman7 · 02-10-2005, 07:04 AM

The reason i am considering a pet shop is because I have never even heard of breeders around my area. How would I go about finding a reputable breeder who breeds boxers? Realistically, the dog would probably be home alone for 5-6 hours a day. But other then that, would receive great care. I would do whatever it takes to make sure the dog is properly trained.

dirtyrascal7 · 02-10-2005, 07:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

The reason i am considering a pet shop is because I have never even heard of breeders around my area. How would I go about finding a reputable breeder who breeds boxers? Realistically, the dog would probably be home alone for 5-6 hours a day. But other then that, would receive great care. I would do whatever it takes to make sure the dog is properly trained.

just look in the classified ads... there's always listings for dogs, both by breeders and individual families whose dog just had puppies.

my girlfriend and i just got a 10 week old puppy. it is my first time raising a dog, but she grew up around dogs... so she knew what to expect. it was a big shock to me just how much attention they need... i knew it would be a lot, but i didn't think it would be nearly constant. it truly changes your entire lifestyle because with every choice you make, you have to consider how it effects them. of course, you can hear these same comments over and over, but you really have to experience it to know what it's like... just be aware that it's a much bigger commitment than you think and it will take months and months to get him/her trained to the point where you don't have to constantly worry about where he/she is and what he/she is chewing on or peeing on.

splck · 02-10-2005, 07:27 AM

I'll chime in and tell you to avoid the pet store too.
Contact a few Vet office's and ask them if they can refer you to a local breeder of the type of dog you want. Meet the breeder, meet their dogs and go from there. Any breeder worth their salt would deny selling one of their dogs to a person they didn't think is ready for one of their babies.
I'd suggest looking at a mixed breed, but if you are determined to get a pure bred, start by looking at the traits of the dog of your choice. You may end up with a totally different dog than you thought you might like.

maleficent · 02-10-2005, 07:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

Realistically, the dog would probably be home alone for 5-6 hours a day. But other then that, would receive great care. I would do whatever it takes to make sure the dog is properly trained.

You wouldn't leave a baby at home for 5 -6 hours a day, you surely can't leave a puppy home for that amount of time.

Rather than a pet shop, go to the North Shore Animal League, or the ASPCA, or if you are in the city itself, the Center for Animal Care and Control (this used to be a kill shelter, I don't know if they still are, but you'd be saving a doggy life if you got one from there)

Consider getting an older dog, one that has been trained, and needs a good home.

IC3 · 02-10-2005, 07:30 AM

I got my German Sheppard Boarder Collie cross through a pet store, Here, Breeders will put post adds in the pet shops.

I went to 4 animal shelters within and around my city first to see if there were any dogs that i could rescue..but, at the time alot of them were already full grown and they didn't have too much background information on them. I like to know what the dogs been through before i take one from a shelter.

If you live in New York, I would bet very highly that there are breeders around. But like everyone says, You really should look in the shelters first. Breeders don't have too many problems with getting thier pup's into homes. Shelters do and sadly, The dog's will usually be put down if not rescued.

maleficent · 02-10-2005, 07:35 AM

There are probably no breeders in the city itself, but I'd bet there are tons in Westchester, New Jersey or Connecticut -- all places that are within an hour of NYC.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 07:40 AM

Here are the steps you need to take.

1. Do some research and decide what kind of dog you want, using DogBreedInfo or SelectSmart.

2. Google the dog breed you choose with your location. Or, you can go through the AKC, they have a list of breeders in the area where you are. That should get you some kennels in your area, and you can view their websites and check out the dogs they offer. All reputable kennels will offer references. CHECK THEM!

3. Speak with the kennel owner and make arrangements to purchase your dog. A REPUTABLE breeder won't let the puppy come to you until it is at least 8 weeks old, preferably 12. That gives the puppy time to socialize with its littermates and be completely weaned before you get it.

4. Before you get your dog, you should have a space in your home that is dedicated to the dog. Even if you are crate training your dog, the crate needs a particular place where it always is. I would also take the time to puppy proof your house... Make sure all the cords in your house are inaccessible, clean up so that there are no shoes and other things you don't want it to chew up. Buy the dog some toys... Puppies teethe just like babies do, so you'll need some nice chew toys that they can gnaw on.

5. Make arrangements to take some time off work/school for at least the first one to two weeks after you get your dog, so that you can potty and crate train the dog.

6. Pick up your puppy.

You are going to have to work up a schedule of feeding and potty times... Your puppy should be taken to go potty 15 minutes after they eat, and if they don't go potty then, you'll have to take it out every 10 minutes or so afterwards until it does go. And you'll have to take it outside to potty about every 3 - 4 hours, returning outside every 10 minutes or so until they go potty. Decide on a Key word. I use 'go potty' for mine. When they do their business, say it while they go, and praise it.

To crate train, you'll have to BE THERE to do this, just like potty training. Open the crate and line it with an old blanket or pillow. Place the puppy in the crate and close the gate. Stay where the puppy can see you, then let it out in about 15 minutes. Praise it, then play with it for a while. Put it back in the crate for about 15 minutes again. You'll have to do this in increasing times for several days. Don't give in to the whining and barking.... DON'T yell at it. You'll have to get the puppy accustomed to the crate, make it feel like the crate is its special place. Again, a special word that refers to it is good. I use "bed" for mine.

I still don't think you've thought this through. You keep repeating that the dog has to be home by itself for 5 - 6 hours a day.... This isn't a huge deal, AFTER the initial training time. I took two weeks off work when I got my female, and she was almost 3 years old, NOT a puppy. I took almost a month off the last time I had to train a puppy. Even after I went back to work, I was home every day at lunch, and I didn't leave the puppy alone for more than 4 hours at a time for another month, at which time he was fully trained. And unless you are planning on having a house, a boxer is not going to be the most likely breed for you.... They are fairly large, require quite a bit of care, and it is incredibly important that they be exceptionally well-trained before you ever leave them alone. They can be VERY destructive if you don't, and they do NOT like to be left alone. I have a boxer/pitbull mix who dug up the floor of the home I rescued her from. The previous owners didn't bother to train her or teach her anything, and left her alone for hours at a time.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 07:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IC3

I got my German Sheppard Boarder Collie cross through a pet store, Here, Breeders will put post adds in the pet shops.

If you got a mixed breed in a pet store, chances are good that the pet store was working with a local shelter to place dogs rather than selling pure bred puppies from puppy mills.

And checking the classifieds can help, but you have to beware of "backyard breeders".... people who just let their dog have puppies without checking pedigrees, bloodlines or anything, they just pick a dog they like the look of and if its the same breed, bingo, let's have puppies. A reputable breeder makes sure that their dogs are bred with an eye to preventing health problems that are prevalent in particular breeds (like back problems in Dachshunds, or hip dysplasia in Boxers, and deafness in Boxers, etc, etc), and they breed only to improve the breed, not just to have a litter of puppies to breed.

dualman7 · 02-10-2005, 08:02 AM

Bryndian, I am printing what you said out and posting it on the fridge.

90% of the people get their dogs from pet shops. Would i really be commiting a horrific act by getting my boxer from there? I simply don't have the time and energy to look for breeders. I am sorry if that pisses some of you off. I went to those websites, and the closest is 3 hours away! I live in Brooklyn new York, zip code 11229, so if u see any breeders online, close, I would love to get in touch with them, maybe I am searching in the wrong places.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

90% of the people get their dogs from pet shops.

Actually, that might have been true ten or more years ago, but many, many pet stores no longer sell puppies for the very reason I'm begging you not to buy a puppy from a pet store.

Please. Check out the Humane Society's page on puppy mills. You can see some of the horror stories on a couple of rescue sites.... Puppy Mill Rescue is one and NoPuppyMills. That last is a forum dedicated to educating the public about puppy mills.

If you absolutely MUST have a boxer, then please check these sites out BEFORE you decide to get a puppy. These rescue sites are amazing, and are a wonderful resource for breed lovers. I have a rescue Dachsund, and she's an incredible dog. American Boxer Rescue is one. Another in your area of the country is Northeastern Boxer Rescue.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 08:19 AM

By the way, I know I sound almost fanatic, but this is an issue that is very, very close to my heart. It would be for you, too, if you'd worked with rescue dogs for as long as I have. The horror stories of course are the extremes, but even the moderate stores are enough to make you want to cry. I do my part by talking to people like you, trying to make sure that they are educated and prepared to get a dog.... Dogs should at most ever have two homes.... Their birth home and their forever home. You wouldn't have a baby and then decide it was too much trouble or untrainable... The same should be true about dogs, too.

StanT · 02-10-2005, 08:27 AM

A reputable breeder cares about the quality of the dogs they breed. A puppy mill makes money at the dog's expense. A reputable breeder will quiz you about your suitability to care for one of their puppies. They truly care about the dogs that they sell. My avatar is a picture of my 9 year old Newfoundland. She cost me $1000 and a 5 hour drive. Her parents and grandparents hips, elbows, and knees were all xrayed and certified. Her parents and grandparents were on site for me to see. Purchasing her from the breeder was worse than a job interview. I had to bring pictures of my home, my yard, and a note from my vet. They actually called the vet as a reference. They were more of a placement agency than a seller. Knowing that they took extraordinary steps to insure the health of their puppies made it worthwhile to me. Someday I will do it again.

Owning a dog isn't a casual thing, it's a 10-15 year commitment. Shelters and breeders are looking out for the dogs. Pets stores are only looking out for themselves.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StanT

My avatar is a picture of my 9 year old Newfoundland.

Omg, she's precious! I almost want to *squee!!* lol.... and I never *squee*. *grins* Newfies rock. I lovelovelove big dogs, not that you can tell with my Dachshunds (aka "dobies with three inch legs" *winks*), but I miss my big dogs.

greeneyes · 02-10-2005, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dirtyrascal7

just look in the classified ads... there's always listings for dogs, both by breeders and individual families whose dog just had puppies.

my girlfriend and i just got a 10 week old puppy. it is my first time raising a dog, but she grew up around dogs... so she knew what to expect. it was a big shock to me just how much attention they need... i knew it would be a lot, but i didn't think it would be nearly constant. it truly changes your entire lifestyle because with every choice you make, you have to consider how it effects them. of course, you can hear these same comments over and over, but you really have to experience it to know what it's like... just be aware that it's a much bigger commitment than you think and it will take months and months to get him/her trained to the point where you don't have to constantly worry about where he/she is and what he/she is chewing on or peeing on.

Also, the puppy we got was from the animal shelter because I absolutely refuse to get one from the pet store. Before dirtyrascal7 and I decided on the dog we got, we looked in the classifieds and went to several animal shelters.

We ended up with a beautiful black lab puppy who just got his vet check-up yesterday and was given a clean bill of health and we were told he was in excellent condition all around. Two years ago my parents bought a black lab puppy from a pet store and she has had all kinds of health problems since the first day they had her. That is heartbreaking in and of itself, but when you add in all the cost of taking care of her medical problems, it gets very frustrating.

Think about this choice carfully, don't get a puppy from a pet store, and take someone with you that knows a bit about dogs.

Good luck!

Lasereth · 02-10-2005, 08:56 AM

I don't get it. If Puppy Mills are horrific, wouldn't buying a puppy from the store be SAVING the puppy, giving him/her a better home? They've already had to live through that crap, why leave them in a store to be molested by 4 year olds?

-Lasereth

lurkette · 02-10-2005, 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

Bryndian, I am printing what you said out and posting it on the fridge.

90% of the people get their dogs from pet shops. Would i really be commiting a horrific act by getting my boxer from there? I simply don't have the time and energy to look for breeders. I am sorry if that pisses some of you off. I went to those websites, and the closest is 3 hours away! I live in Brooklyn new York, zip code 11229, so if u see any breeders online, close, I would love to get in touch with them, maybe I am searching in the wrong places.

Dude, the more you talk the less I think you are ready for a dog. First, YES it would really be so bad. Do some research on "puppy mills" and see what kind of horrific treatment of animals you would be supporting by purchasing from a pet store (not getting a rescue dog from a pet store, but getting a purebreed). Second, if you are buying a purebred from a pet store and not from a good breeder you are taking your chances with the dog's health - purebreds are often riddled with known health problems. Good breeders breed to avoid those; bad breeders are puppy factories designed to make money.

If you are not even willing to put in the minimal amount of time and effort it takes to locate a good breeder, I seriously doubt you have the stamina for training and caring for an energetic dog. If you don't have the "time and energy" to look for breeders, what makes you think you will have the time and energy to care for a puppy? It's not an accessory at the end of a leash that just sits there calmly until you feel like spending some time with it.

Finally, you seem obsessed with getting a boxer, despite the fact that it doesn't sound like a good fit for your lifestyle and time committment. Did you not hear us? BOXERS NEED LOTS OF ATTENTION OR THEY WILL EAT YOUR HOUSE. LITERALLY!!! You cannot leave them alone for 5-6 hours at a time until they are very well-trained and confident - maybe at 2 years old. It's not a houseplant, it's not even a cat. It's a creature with very strong social drives and if you can't give it what it needs you would be cruel to keep it just to satisfy your desire for a particular breed.

lurkette · 02-10-2005, 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lasereth

I don't get it. If Puppy Mills are horrific, wouldn't buying a puppy from the store be SAVING the puppy, giving him/her a better home? They've already had to live through that crap, why leave them in a store to be molested by 4 year olds?

-Lasereth

The issue isn't rescue (you're better off "rescuing" a dog from euthenasia at a shelter), it's supporting the continued existence of puppy mills. If the demand dried up - if people stopped buying cut-rate puppy mill dogs from pet stores - they places would cease to exist.

If you are dead set on getting a puppy from a store, ask the store who their supplier is and check them out thoroughly. Chances are, though, that it's a puppy mill.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lurkette

If you are dead set on getting a puppy from a store, ask the store who their supplier is and check them out thoroughly. Chances are, though, that it's a puppy mill.

The newest trend in pet stores who want to carry live animals is "certifying" their puppies. They claim that their puppies have no health problems, and they "screen" the customer to make sure the puppy is a "match."

I'm going to say definitely right here that a reputable breeder will
never allow a third party (a pet store) to sell their dogs for them.

A reputable breeder expects a responsible puppy buyer to want to see the place where the puppy was born, to see the other puppies, to see the mother (and possibly the father, if he's on the premises), to experience the puppy in a natural setting, to see the interaction between the potential owner and the puppy.

A responsible breeder will very likely require that the dog be neutered to prevent backyard breeding.

A responsible breeder will certify their dogs through several generations, and guarantee that they will take the dog back if there is a significant health issue.

Some responsible breeders require that an owner who finds that they can not care for the dog return the puppy to them and will refund the owner's money, thereby ensuring that they are the only ones who ever place their puppies in a home.

Since the boxer is the breed in question here, here are some ideas of what you can expect in health problems in that particular breed, if your breeder is not responsible enough to ensure that the health of the dogs for several generations is not perfect:

Hip Dysplasia... This is an incurable disease that causes severe pain in the dog. It can only be corrected by surgery, which often doesn't work. The surgery is expensive, and once completed the dog faces many months of physical therapy. Yes, physical therapy... Done by a professional, who can train you to continue it once the dog is home for good. Hip Dysplasia is very, very common in larger dogs, but can be prevented by careful breeding.

Bloat... this happens in deep chested dogs. What happens is that if the dog is not fed correctly, and the intestines are genetically predisposed to abnormal formation, the intestines can twist, causing agony in the dog, and can kill them. Surgery is the only way to fix it, and it is something that only care and attention can prevent.

Aortic stenosis.... A heart disease that is prevalent in boxers.

Thyroid disease....

Only a responsible, reputable breeder will (without exception) have health certificates certifying the health of not only the puppies they sell, but the health of the mother, father, and several preceding generations.

Source: The Dog Owner's Guide

shakran · 02-10-2005, 09:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

Bryndian, I am printing what you said out and posting it on the fridge.

90% of the people get their dogs from pet shops. Would i really be commiting a horrific act by getting my boxer from there? I simply don't have the time and energy to look for breeders. I am sorry if that pisses some of you off. I went to those websites, and the closest is 3 hours away! I live in Brooklyn new York, zip code 11229, so if u see any breeders online, close, I would love to get in touch with them, maybe I am searching in the wrong places.

Then don't get a dog! You don't have the time and energy to find a good breeder, you don't have the time and energy not to leave the dog alone for 6 hours a day, then you simply don't have the time and energy for a dog. If you get one at this stage in your life, it's a selfish move to satisfy your own desires at the expense of the dog. Leaving a dog alone regularly for 6 hours is cruel. Not only does 6 hours seem like forever to the dog (think back to when you were a little kid and had to wait even half an hour for something. Seemed to take forever didn't it?), but the dog doesn't even understand that you're coming back. He'll think he's been abandoned. That's especially bad for a puppy who's already going through the shock of being torn away from his littermates and his mom.

I can't stress this enough. You are not a good candidate to have a dog. Please reconsider and wait to get the dog until you're at a stage in your life where you can devote the time needed to caring for it.

Dogs are not put on this earth for the amusement of man. They are companions, not toys. You cannot play with the dog and then toss it in the closet until you're ready to play with it again.

(edit)

side note: It's good to see so many fellow dog lovers who are obviously responsible and caring companions to their pups. Cheers guys!

dualman7 · 02-10-2005, 10:08 AM

You're right, I am obviously not ready yet. I just graduated college, and thought a man's best friend wouldb e a great companion for my single lifestyle. But I guess I was wrong.

jorgelito · 02-10-2005, 10:12 AM

Try petfinder.com

Plenty of "pure breds" at shleters, pounds, rescues. Dogs from the pet shop aren't very good (so it seems.) They look sick.

Just pick up a mutt. They're the best!!

ShaniFaye · 02-10-2005, 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

You're right, I am obviously not ready yet. I just graduated college, and thought a man's best friend wouldb e a great companion for my single lifestyle. But I guess I was wrong.

Do you not like cats? (Im not saying this because Im a cat person) but cats are great....I never heard of a kitty mill.....they dont mind being left alone because you have to work in order to be able to feed them....they take their own baths and they dont smell.

jorgelito · 02-10-2005, 10:23 AM

Dude, it took me four-five years before I finally got a dog. I read books, taked to dog-owners, went to the shelter everyweek, talked to foster groups, rescues, and even tried dog-sitting first. It's a life decision. Don't sweat it, if you're not ready, you're not ready. Sadly, there will still be a ton of dogs available for you to adopt when you are ready.

meembo · 02-10-2005, 02:33 PM

No cats!
What could this thread be but a reverie of dogs we love or have loved? I had a collie for about 13 years and he was great and loyal as hell. There are few graves I visit, but his is one.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-10-2005, 02:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dualman7

You're right, I am obviously not ready yet. I just graduated college, and thought a man's best friend wouldb e a great companion for my single lifestyle. But I guess I was wrong.

Dualman, at the risk of sounding condescending, which I really am not trying to do, that statement right there gives me great hope that when you do decide that you're ready to get a dog, you'll do it the right way.

Why don't you contact one of those rescue organizations? Ask them if there are any volunteer opportunities for you, so that you can spend some real time with a boxer, get familiar with the breed. You'll see first hand exactly what the downsides are to the breed, and learn what is good about it. Plenty of shelters and rescue organizations need people to walk the dogs, transport dogs to new forever homes, even contacts to do the actual rescues from shelters and homes that don't want them anymore... Most desperately need foster homes, too, temporary placement for dogs waiting for forever homes. I wouldn't suggest that at first, but maybe after you've spent some time with the dogs, you'll find that you want to give it a shot. I swear to you, you'll never regret time spent working with the rescue organizations.

I know what it feels like to want a dog, to want that connection with another being. And I know what it feels like to have to wait. But waiting, as hard as it is, makes the actual getting all that much sweeter.

If you need help finding another rescue organization, or one for another breed (have you taken the questionnaires yet??), feel free to PM me, I'm always available to help.

shakran · 02-10-2005, 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bryndian_Dhai

Dualman, at the risk of sounding condescending, which I really am not trying to do, that statement right there gives me great hope that when you do decide that you're ready to get a dog, you'll do it the right way.

What Bryndian said. Good show Dualman.

Another thing you can do if you have the time is participate in rescue transportation. Most rescue organizations have networks of people that will transport the dogs from the site of rescue to the site of the foster parents. It usually is a relay, where you drive the dog 4-5 hours and then meeting up with the next person in the chain. It's not a big commitment, but you're really doing a LOT to get the dog into good hands. When I rescue-relay I usually have the previous guy take the dog to my place, where he spends the night chilling with my herd of bassets, then I drive him on the next day. One or two of my bassets usually come along for the ride to keep the rescue dog company.

And like Bryndian said, the humane society is ALWAYS looking for volunteers who can help them care for and place their animals. There's nothing like getting an abused dog healthy again and then finding it a good home where you know it'll live out its life in comfort and happiness.

greytone · 02-10-2005, 06:16 PM

Hey Dualman, let me tell you that I have always been a "dog person." We had two beagles when I was growing up and really missed having a dog around while I was in college and then med school. In residency I had to take in house call and was still in an apartment do s pet of any kind was out of the question. When I finished, it took me a few years to build a house and then get the yard fenced in. I planned ahead and read several books about dogs in general and how to pick a breed that matches your lifestyle. Being single, I knew that getting a puppy was not a good idea.

After much thought and research I decided that rescuing a greyhound was my best choice. I have never regreted making that choice but more importantly I am glad I waited.

Greys make great pets for a number of people, but not everyone. They are crate trained (but the concept of a house is new to them) and they are well past the puppy stage. They are greytful for giving them a loving home in their retirement. But they are highly social and therefore are like Lays potato chips. No one stops at just one. I now have two and they are happier when another dog is around. At the track they are kept in crates except for 4 exercise periods a day. I keep mine in a tiled room with plenty of water and food and space and comfortable bedding. It is well heated and air conditioned. I wish I could be home more with them, but I have to work.

This is so much better than they had at the track and they seem very happy. Unfortunately about a third of racers are still euthanized when their racing careers are over.

Different rescue groups disagree about the fence issue. Some will only adopt out to people with fenced yards because greys and other sighthounds should ALWAYS be walked on a leash. Others are OK with a promise to always walk them on a leash. To me this makes sense because they are couch potatos in their retirement and they are great dogs to walk on a lead. I think mine would actually do well in an apartment if I would be better about walking them.

Try a few good books and by the time you get through them you should be pretty confident what will be right for your situation.

IC3 · 02-12-2005, 11:39 AM

Quote:

If you got a mixed breed in a pet store, chances are good that the pet store was working with a local shelter to place dogs rather than selling pure bred puppies from puppy mills.

No i got him through a pet store, The pet stores here have bulletin boards and people who breed dogs will post an add and there address & phone number..We went to the breeders home and we got to choose are dog out of the litter and see the Mother & Father of the puppy's.

I would never buy a dog from a pet store, Actually my current dog is the first i haven't gotten from a shelter.

Bryndian_Dhai · 02-12-2005, 12:01 PM

Oh, ok, my misunderstanding.... You found a dog through a pet store.... HUGE difference there, lol.

I'm a skosh touchy about it right now, there's a new pet store in town, the first in years to actually sell pure-bred puppies. I am heartsick, and desperately trying to think of something I can do to make them stop. *sighs* According to the company's website, supposedly they have an option of doing what PetSmart does, hosting a local shelter to come in and put up dogs for adoption. But this guy's selling purebreds. *sighs*

We have a locally owned store here, and he sells pure breds, but he has an arrangement with a local breeder.... He "hosts" the mother and the entire litter while the store is open, and she comes to get the dogs before he closes. They're not in a cage, and they're a delight to see when you go into the store. Not the "perfect" solution, but better than the usual thing. I'm not even sure if he still does it.... His pet shop specializes in fish and birds, and I think he was only hosting the litters as a favor to the lady who bred them. *shrugs*

But that doesn't help me with the other place. I think I'm going to go in there and ask to speak to the owner. I want to know where he gets his puppies and I want to actually speak to him before I start a crusade. As big as my city is, its still a very small town in a lot of ways... I don't recognize the name of the owner, and neither does anyone else I know, which sends red flags up at me. (Baton Rouge is classic for 6 degrees of separation... Not a person in this town can't find a connection with another person, even if they've never met them before. Its the most awesome thing about this place, lol)

02-09-2005, 08:28 PM	#1 (permalink)
dualman7 Crazy	Thinking of getting a dog I am going to be moving out soon, and I want to get a dog. I am thinking of a boxer. I don't know too much about breeds, so what's close to a boxer? Also, 1. how much should i expect to spend, 2. what should I look for when picking out a dog? Are there traits to look for? or just go with your instincts? I'm naming him Tyson. Many thanks.

02-09-2005, 08:45 PM	#2 (permalink)
K-Wise It's All About The Ass!! Location: In a pool of mayonnaise!!	Make sure ya get him a doggy shirt Like this one Thats all you need to know. Asta!! __________________ "I love music and it's my parents fault (closing statement)." - Me..quoting myself...from when I said that...On TFP..thats here...Tilted Forum Project *It ain't goodbye, it's see ya later! I'll miss you guys!* - Asta!!

02-09-2005, 08:48 PM	#3 (permalink)
Psycho Dad Mulletproof Location: Some nucking fut house.	Go to the animal shelter and get a free one. Many of the dogs there are going to be just as good if not better pets than some overpriced, puppy-mill bred, high dollar dog. __________________ Don't always trust the opinions of experts.

02-09-2005, 09:16 PM	#5 (permalink)
amonkie Drifting Administrator Location: Windy City	Another point to add to those to consider: What is your financial situation? The bigger the dog, the more food they eat. Also, what is the weather like where you are? Take into account the environment the dog will be in - if it's extremely cold out, will it have enough fur to stay warm? Also, are you going to be living in a situation where there may be small children or someone with allergies? Be aware of the people around you. __________________ Calling from deep in the heart, from where the eyes can't see and the ears can't hear, from where the mountain trails end and only love can go... ~~~ Three Rivers Hare Krishna

02-10-2005, 05:06 AM	#6 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	Plus there's also medical care for the dog. Both yearly checkups (with shots) and any emergencies that come up. Most pure breeds have rescue organizations that you can get dogs thru, but, rightfully so, they are pretty intensive processes, kind of like adopting a child. These rescue organizations love their animals, and aren't going to give a dog to just anyone. All over the web are surveys you can take about both what pet is right for you and what breed of dog is right for you. __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

02-09-2005, 08:57 PM	#4 (permalink)
shakran Tone.	woah woah. You need to slow down. Getting a dog is never something that should be done on a whim - you're talking about taking on 12 to 16 years of responsibility for a creature that will depend on you for everything. What is your living situation? Apartments aren't good for larger dogs, and even smaller dogs still need somewhere to run. What is your work situation? Are you planning on getting a puppy and then leaving it at home for 10 hours at a time while you work? Is that fair to the puppy? I'm not trying to rag on you, but your post shows that you need to learn a LOT more about dogs before getting one. To answer your questions more specifically, though, you should expect to pay between $300 and $1000 for a good purebred animal from a reputable breeder. You should ONLY get animals from a reputable breeder or from the animal shelter. NEVER buy a puppy from a pet store - most of their animals come from puppy mills, which are nothing but cruel animal abusers - http://www.hsus.org/pets/issues_affe...lls/index.html You should never "go with your instincts" - you should research breeds to find the breed characteristics that are most compatible with you. Then you need to research the breeders you are considering to make sure they are working to eliminate genetic problems, otherwise you could wind up with a very sick pup on your hands. Bottom line, dogs are perpetual 2 year olds, and they require every bit as much care and attention as a human 2 year old. If you don't know what you're in for, you'll end up with a bad situation for both you and the puppy.

02-10-2005, 06:14 AM	#7 (permalink)
Bryndian_Dhai Insane Location: Louisiana	Also, there's the time and money and effort to put into correctly training your dog. Granted, PetSmart and other retail chains offer fairly decent basic obedience classes for reasonable rates, but are you willing to put in the time and effort to train the dog? Another thing I'd like to add is that you should really, really think about rescuing a dog from a shelter or the pound. Mixed breed dogs are usually the most even keeled and have fewer medical problems. You'll save the life of a dog who needs a home, and there are so many who need homes, you'll be able to find one that suits your particular needs. I don't have kids, I have dogs. My babies are the center of my life. No, I don't have to find a sitter to go out to eat, but there are a lot of things that I have to remember when caring for my dogs that people with kids don't have to think about... My dogs can't tell me what's wrong when they don't feel good. It takes time and dedication to be around a dog enough to learn their signals and know how to read what they are telling you. They have to be fed and walked and taken out to potty... They can't fix themselves a bowl of cereal or go to the bathroom on their own. You have to be able to dedicate time to spend with your dog... Yes, they'll chew on a toy by themselves, but they live to play with you. They can be an absolute joy.... I wouldn't know what to do without mine. They make my life better just by being themselves. They give me all of themselves, without reservation, and they always love me. You owe it not only to yourself but to your future dog to give choosing him or her all the effort and consideration that they deserve. __________________ “When facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.” ~Sinclair Lewis

02-10-2005, 06:27 AM	#8 (permalink)
dualman7 Crazy	thanks guys. I live in New York. The financial situation should be fine, as my parents will help out caring for it. My dad loves animals and will probably care for it better than he did for me lol. I am thinking of getting one from a local pet shop. Will the price include all of the necessary shots and etc? Or will I find out like a month later that there's more required? I would not mind having it trained at all. I have never had a dog, so forgive me if this sound cruel, but is it okay to leave it home alone in a cage for like 6 hours? Are there better ways to do it? Maybe setup a small space and block it out...

02-10-2005, 06:38 AM	#9 (permalink)
Bryndian_Dhai Insane Location: Louisiana	PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!! DO NOT BUY A PUPPY FROM A PET STORE!!! Please.... If you MUST have a pure breed puppy, do some research and find a REPUTABLE breeder. You'll possibly pay more for the puppy, but usually first puppy shots are included, the dog will be socialized and you'll not be contributing to puppy mills. Be prepared. A pure bred puppy will cost you between $300 and $1000 (depending on the breed). Then, even if the first shots are included, puppies need shots several times the first year. You could spend upward of $1500 to $2000 on the puppy the first year, more if you include food, supplies, a crate, obedience training.... I do recommend you crate train the dog. But to do that, you will need to be available to spend time with the dog. You can't just put a puppy in a crate and expect them to take to it all at once. Puppies have to learn to go out to do their business, and that requires time and attention, too. My own opinion is that if you are not able to care for a dog 100% all by yourself, then you are not ready for one. __________________ “When facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.” ~Sinclair Lewis

02-10-2005, 06:41 AM	#10 (permalink)
lurkette My future is coming on Moderator Emeritus Location: east of the sun and west of the moon	DO NOT go from a local pet shop - most of them are outlets for puppy mills. If you're going to go with a purebred, shell out the money for a reputable breeder. I'm going to second people's call for rescuing a dog from a shelter or breed rescue - you'll be saving a dog's life, essentially, and you're just as likely if not more so to get a loving dog with a good temperament. In terms of the breed that's right for you, do some research on places like dogbreedinfo.com, and there's a dog breed selector on selectsmart.com. You'll want to be brutally honest about the amount of time you're willing to spend caring for and training the dog, how much time it'll spend alone, how much exercise you're willing to give it. It doesn't sound like a boxer is right for you - they need lots of exercise and lots of attention, and they hate being left alone. I have a friend with a boxer - he left her alone locked in the bathroom while he was at work for a few hours and he came home to find that she had chewed/clawed THROUGH the fucking wall and was running around the back yard. Luckily it was fenced. They are highly energetic, muscular dogs and they require firm training. If you're a first-time dog owner I would suggest something less energetic and perhaps less demanding of training. If you're getting a puppy, you will not be able to leave it crated for 6 hours at first. The general rule of thumb is that up to about a year, they can go without peeing/pooping for a number of hours equal to their age in months plus one. So if you get an 8 week old puppy, they're going to need to go outside literally every 3-4 hours. I can not stress enough that this is not something to be done lightly. Lots of people just get a dog without really knowing what they're in for, and they end up with neurotic, bored, badly-behaved dogs that they can't live with, and the saddest thing is it's the human's fault for not taking care of and training the dog properly but it's the dog that ends up at the pound. Please consider carefully whether you are really ready for a dog or not. __________________ "If ten million people believe a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing." - Anatole France

02-10-2005, 06:41 AM	#11 (permalink)
k9trainingbiz Upright Location: texas	Hi dualman, new to this forum, am dog trainer, know very well about working breeds, 2 dobermans of my own. Boxers are wonderful, faithful, loyal and obedient pets. They will do anything for you, provided you get good obedience training (a must!) and spend a lot of time with them. I would seriously think twice about getting ANY dog if you are gone all day at work. They won't do well, and you will be unhappy. That's how most dogs end up in the shelter. Dogs are social animals that wither without pretty constant companionship. Dogs take a lot of time and energy and patience. If you can commit to all this, you will likely have a happy, long and rewarding relationship. But if you can't, please think of the animal's welfare before your own. If you have any questions at all, please email me at k9trainingbiz@comast.net. Good luck!

02-10-2005, 07:04 AM	#12 (permalink)
dualman7 Crazy	The reason i am considering a pet shop is because I have never even heard of breeders around my area. How would I go about finding a reputable breeder who breeds boxers? Realistically, the dog would probably be home alone for 5-6 hours a day. But other then that, would receive great care. I would do whatever it takes to make sure the dog is properly trained.

02-10-2005, 07:27 AM	#14 (permalink)
splck it's jam Location: Lowerainland BC	I'll chime in and tell you to avoid the pet store too. Contact a few Vet office's and ask them if they can refer you to a local breeder of the type of dog you want. Meet the breeder, meet their dogs and go from there. Any breeder worth their salt would deny selling one of their dogs to a person they didn't think is ready for one of their babies. I'd suggest looking at a mixed breed, but if you are determined to get a pure bred, start by looking at the traits of the dog of your choice. You may end up with a totally different dog than you thought you might like. __________________ nice line eh?

02-10-2005, 07:30 AM	#16 (permalink)
IC3 Poison Location: Canada	I got my German Sheppard Boarder Collie cross through a pet store, Here, Breeders will put post adds in the pet shops. I went to 4 animal shelters within and around my city first to see if there were any dogs that i could rescue..but, at the time alot of them were already full grown and they didn't have too much background information on them. I like to know what the dogs been through before i take one from a shelter. If you live in New York, I would bet very highly that there are breeders around. But like everyone says, You really should look in the shelters first. Breeders don't have too many problems with getting thier pup's into homes. Shelters do and sadly, The dog's will usually be put down if not rescued. __________________ "To win any battle, you must fight as if you were already dead" -Musashi

02-10-2005, 07:35 AM	#17 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	There are probably no breeders in the city itself, but I'd bet there are tons in Westchester, New Jersey or Connecticut -- all places that are within an hour of NYC. __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

02-10-2005, 07:40 AM	#18 (permalink)
Bryndian_Dhai Insane Location: Louisiana	Here are the steps you need to take. 1. Do some research and decide what kind of dog you want, using DogBreedInfo or SelectSmart. 2. Google the dog breed you choose with your location. Or, you can go through the AKC, they have a list of breeders in the area where you are. That should get you some kennels in your area, and you can view their websites and check out the dogs they offer. All reputable kennels will offer references. CHECK THEM! 3. Speak with the kennel owner and make arrangements to purchase your dog. A REPUTABLE breeder won't let the puppy come to you until it is at least 8 weeks old, preferably 12. That gives the puppy time to socialize with its littermates and be completely weaned before you get it. 4. Before you get your dog, you should have a space in your home that is dedicated to the dog. Even if you are crate training your dog, the crate needs a particular place where it always is. I would also take the time to puppy proof your house... Make sure all the cords in your house are inaccessible, clean up so that there are no shoes and other things you don't want it to chew up. Buy the dog some toys... Puppies teethe just like babies do, so you'll need some nice chew toys that they can gnaw on. 5. Make arrangements to take some time off work/school for at least the first one to two weeks after you get your dog, so that you can potty and crate train the dog. 6. Pick up your puppy. You are going to have to work up a schedule of feeding and potty times... Your puppy should be taken to go potty 15 minutes after they eat, and if they don't go potty then, you'll have to take it out every 10 minutes or so afterwards until it does go. And you'll have to take it outside to potty about every 3 - 4 hours, returning outside every 10 minutes or so until they go potty. Decide on a Key word. I use 'go potty' for mine. When they do their business, say it while they go, and praise it. To crate train, you'll have to BE THERE to do this, just like potty training. Open the crate and line it with an old blanket or pillow. Place the puppy in the crate and close the gate. Stay where the puppy can see you, then let it out in about 15 minutes. Praise it, then play with it for a while. Put it back in the crate for about 15 minutes again. You'll have to do this in increasing times for several days. Don't give in to the whining and barking.... DON'T yell at it. You'll have to get the puppy accustomed to the crate, make it feel like the crate is its special place. Again, a special word that refers to it is good. I use "bed" for mine. I still don't think you've thought this through. You keep repeating that the dog has to be home by itself for 5 - 6 hours a day.... This isn't a huge deal, *AFTER* the initial training time. I took two weeks off work when I got my female, and she was almost 3 years old, NOT a puppy. I took almost a month off the last time I had to train a puppy. Even after I went back to work, I was home every day at lunch, and I didn't leave the puppy alone for more than 4 hours at a time for another month, at which time he was fully trained. And unless you are planning on having a house, a boxer is not going to be the most likely breed for you.... They are fairly large, require quite a bit of care, and it is incredibly important that they be exceptionally well-trained before you ever leave them alone. They can be VERY destructive if you don't, and they do NOT like to be left alone. I have a boxer/pitbull mix who dug up the floor of the home I rescued her from. The previous owners didn't bother to train her or teach her anything, and left her alone for hours at a time. __________________ “When facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.” ~Sinclair Lewis

02-10-2005, 08:02 AM	#20 (permalink)
dualman7 Crazy	Bryndian, I am printing what you said out and posting it on the fridge. 90% of the people get their dogs from pet shops. Would i really be commiting a horrific act by getting my boxer from there? I simply don't have the time and energy to look for breeders. I am sorry if that pisses some of you off. I went to those websites, and the closest is 3 hours away! I live in Brooklyn new York, zip code 11229, so if u see any breeders online, close, I would love to get in touch with them, maybe I am searching in the wrong places.

02-10-2005, 08:19 AM	#22 (permalink)
Bryndian_Dhai Insane Location: Louisiana	By the way, I know I sound almost fanatic, but this is an issue that is very, very close to my heart. It would be for you, too, if you'd worked with rescue dogs for as long as I have. The horror stories of course are the extremes, but even the moderate stores are enough to make you want to cry. I do my part by talking to people like you, trying to make sure that they are educated and prepared to get a dog.... Dogs should at most ever have two homes.... Their birth home and their forever home. You wouldn't have a baby and then decide it was too much trouble or untrainable... The same should be true about dogs, too. __________________ “When facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.” ~Sinclair Lewis

02-10-2005, 08:27 AM	#23 (permalink)
StanT © Location: Colorado	A reputable breeder cares about the quality of the dogs they breed. A puppy mill makes money at the dog's expense. A reputable breeder will quiz you about your suitability to care for one of their puppies. They truly care about the dogs that they sell. My avatar is a picture of my 9 year old Newfoundland. She cost me $1000 and a 5 hour drive. Her parents and grandparents hips, elbows, and knees were all xrayed and certified. Her parents and grandparents were on site for me to see. Purchasing her from the breeder was worse than a job interview. I had to bring pictures of my home, my yard, and a note from my vet. They actually called the vet as a reference. They were more of a placement agency than a seller. Knowing that they took extraordinary steps to insure the health of their puppies made it worthwhile to me. Someday I will do it again. Owning a dog isn't a casual thing, it's a 10-15 year commitment. Shelters and breeders are looking out for the dogs. Pets stores are only looking out for themselves.

02-10-2005, 08:56 AM	#26 (permalink)
Lasereth Knight of the Old Republic Location: Winston-Salem, NC	I don't get it. If Puppy Mills are horrific, wouldn't buying a puppy from the store be SAVING the puppy, giving him/her a better home? They've already had to live through that crap, why leave them in a store to be molested by 4 year olds? -Lasereth __________________ "A Darwinian attacks his theory, seeking to find flaws. An ID believer defends his theory, seeking to conceal flaws." -Roger Ebert

02-10-2005, 10:08 AM	#31 (permalink)
dualman7 Crazy	You're right, I am obviously not ready yet. I just graduated college, and thought a man's best friend wouldb e a great companion for my single lifestyle. But I guess I was wrong.

02-10-2005, 10:12 AM	#32 (permalink)
jorgelito All important elusive independent swing voter... Location: People's Republic of KKKalifornia	Try petfinder.com Plenty of "pure breds" at shleters, pounds, rescues. Dogs from the pet shop aren't very good (so it seems.) They look sick. Just pick up a mutt. They're the best!!

02-10-2005, 10:23 AM	#34 (permalink)
jorgelito All important elusive independent swing voter... Location: People's Republic of KKKalifornia	Dude, it took me four-five years before I finally got a dog. I read books, taked to dog-owners, went to the shelter everyweek, talked to foster groups, rescues, and even tried dog-sitting first. It's a life decision. Don't sweat it, if you're not ready, you're not ready. Sadly, there will still be a ton of dogs available for you to adopt when you are ready.

02-10-2005, 02:33 PM	#35 (permalink)
meembo Junkie Location: Connecticut	No cats! What could this thread be but a reverie of dogs we love or have loved? I had a collie for about 13 years and he was great and loyal as hell. There are few graves I visit, but his is one. __________________ less I say, smarter I am

02-10-2005, 06:16 PM	#38 (permalink)
greytone Junkie	Hey Dualman, let me tell you that I have always been a "dog person." We had two beagles when I was growing up and really missed having a dog around while I was in college and then med school. In residency I had to take in house call and was still in an apartment do s pet of any kind was out of the question. When I finished, it took me a few years to build a house and then get the yard fenced in. I planned ahead and read several books about dogs in general and how to pick a breed that matches your lifestyle. Being single, I knew that getting a puppy was not a good idea. After much thought and research I decided that rescuing a greyhound was my best choice. I have never regreted making that choice but more importantly I am glad I waited. Greys make great pets for a number of people, but not everyone. They are crate trained (but the concept of a house is new to them) and they are well past the puppy stage. They are greytful for giving them a loving home in their retirement. But they are highly social and therefore are like Lays potato chips. No one stops at just one. I now have two and they are happier when another dog is around. At the track they are kept in crates except for 4 exercise periods a day. I keep mine in a tiled room with plenty of water and food and space and comfortable bedding. It is well heated and air conditioned. I wish I could be home more with them, but I have to work. This is so much better than they had at the track and they seem very happy. Unfortunately about a third of racers are still euthanized when their racing careers are over. Different rescue groups disagree about the fence issue. Some will only adopt out to people with fenced yards because greys and other sighthounds should ALWAYS be walked on a leash. Others are OK with a promise to always walk them on a leash. To me this makes sense because they are couch potatos in their retirement and they are great dogs to walk on a lead. I think mine would actually do well in an apartment if I would be better about walking them. Try a few good books and by the time you get through them you should be pretty confident what will be right for your situation. __________________ I was there to see beautiful naked women. So was everybody else. It's a common failing. Robert A Heinlein in "They Do It With Mirrors"

02-12-2005, 12:01 PM	#40 (permalink)
Bryndian_Dhai Insane Location: Louisiana	Oh, ok, my misunderstanding.... You found a dog through a pet store.... HUGE difference there, lol. I'm a skosh touchy about it right now, there's a new pet store in town, the first in years to actually sell pure-bred puppies. I am heartsick, and desperately trying to think of something I can do to make them stop. sighs According to the company's website, supposedly they have an option of doing what PetSmart does, hosting a local shelter to come in and put up dogs for adoption. But this guy's selling purebreds. sighs We have a locally owned store here, and he sells pure breds, but he has an arrangement with a local breeder.... He "hosts" the mother and the entire litter while the store is open, and she comes to get the dogs before he closes. They're not in a cage, and they're a delight to see when you go into the store. Not the "perfect" solution, but better than the usual thing. I'm not even sure if he still does it.... His pet shop specializes in fish and birds, and I think he was only hosting the litters as a favor to the lady who bred them. shrugs But that doesn't help me with the other place. I think I'm going to go in there and ask to speak to the owner. I want to know where he gets his puppies and I want to actually speak to him before I start a crusade. As big as my city is, its still a very small town in a lot of ways... I don't recognize the name of the owner, and neither does anyone else I know, which sends red flags up at me. (Baton Rouge is classic for 6 degrees of separation... Not a person in this town can't find a connection with another person, even if they've never met them before. Its the most awesome thing about this place, lol) __________________ “When facism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.” ~Sinclair Lewis