Hi Everyone! Thanks for all the thoughtful responses! I wanted to give a quick update. When I got home last night, Hubby greeted me at the door saying, "Let's get a dog. Let's do it."
I launched into all my concerns about how it is not practical. Wild Woman I told him about the pincushion situation you mentioned in your response! I told him that stuff scares me because of the expenses that could come up!
He said, " I know the commitment and the money involved and the huge hassle to come but what matters more is that you and the kids will be happy and enjoy the dog and that makes me happy just thinking about it. It will be worth it to me."
So sweet!! I almost fell over! I am thinking we will get one.
Here's hoping that you all won't be reading a ton of posts from me about marital trouble stemming from the strain the dog is putting on our relationship.
j/k (kind of) 😊
Good to hear it worked out. :) It works so much better when everyone is on board.
Happy hound hunting!
So happy he more than met you halfway. Now do some homework and make a wise choice for your lifestyle, personalities, home/yard set-up, etc. And please insist that your children participate in proper training so the dog knows its place in the hierarchy. You'll be glad you put in the time!
So sweet!
Now... to figure out what sort of dog is the right choice for your family...
Again, lots of things to consider. Your activity level as a family, your time at home/away, your ability to travel with (or not) the dog, your physical ability, your personalities (all your family), your space (in and out).
Just because some breeds are large, doesn't necessarily mean they need a lot of space. Some large breeds are not as active as little dogs. And some little dogs have the personality of a much larger dog, trying to make up for their size! ;)
We have a GSD, and when she's inside, she is quiet, and doesn't take up much space, not bouncing off the walls with hyperactivity or anything. Outside, she can (could, she's old now) go and go and go, as long as you were... but come inside, and she'd drink some water and lie down. Only as active as her people. However, they are smart, and if they are not mentally stimulated, can develop negative behaviors. So smart games/toys are essential. I liked to take mine on obstacle course type walks when she was younger. And inside she loves to find treats that are hidden in the house. Or under objects... like an overturned laundry basket. She learned how to open doors (lever handle) and let herself inside from the garage outside. And into our bedroom. :)
She's gently with children, and friendly to friends. Attentive and cautious toward strangers.
She has been wonderful for our household.
Good luck to you as you search for the right fit for your family.
so glad to hear your husband is compromising with you!!
I hope you find a dog that works for your whole family!!
It wasn't a pin cushion - it was a sewing kit - scissors, needles, safety pins, thread - $2200 later....I strongly recommend VPI - Veterinary Pet Insurance - ours is through Nationwide. You can choose comprehensive or emergency (something like that). That will help off-set some of the costs of having a dog!
Good luck!!
So wonderful! Please, PLEASE consider getting a rescue. So many dogs are euthanized every day because there aren't enough people to adopt. Both of ours are from the pound (Australian Shepard and Australian Shepard/Rottweiler mix) and have become my best friends. They have so much love to give!!
Yeah!!! I hope you find the right match for your family!
I have a 10yr old very spoiled Toy Poodle and he is a joy!
I adopted a 4 month old part shar-pei/lab 6 weeks ago and she is cracking me up daily and already quite spoiled.
We've had English and American Cocker Spaniels in the past. The English Cockers were the best!
I'm getting used to a large dog which has been an adjustment but she's worth it!
Yay! Very happy for you! Our furry family members are the best!
Great! I'm so happy he came around to the idea. I hope you find just the perfect dog to add to your family. Please update us when you get one.
Wonderful! I love having a dog..it enriches my life to have her. Good luck finding your dog!
Very happy for you :)
You married a thoughtful guy!
What a sweet husband you have!
Dogs are great! They will add so much love to your home! Enjoy!!
Yay!
That's just the best outcome of all :)
fantastic. gotta tell you, those 4 legged kids are the best.
I keep telling my 6 month old puppy he's going to live in a dog house. Thing is driving me nuts. I'n not use to a large dog. So many issues (counter surfing is the big one now.)
But, we love our dog. Love our kittens too!
