Hi all,
We would love to get a puppy and have been looking into it. We have taken all sorts of things into consideration. We have budgeted for insurance, vets, food, reg treatments, toys , basket etc... and thought about holiday arrangements. We have a decent size garden, and easy access to field land and woods for lots of walks and excersise. I am a SAHM, so he wouldnt be left on his own at all. We realise what hard work a puppy may be and are prepared for puppy training, house training, destructiveness etc...
So now we need to find a puppy LOL Only problem is I hadnt realised the puppys themselves were quite so expensive LOL So I need some of you wonderful knowledgable dog owners to clue me in a bit about actually purchasing a puppy!
Is it possible to find a pupy for less than £100 , that is from a reputable breeder? Obviously I am aware about avoiding dealers, badly raised puppys etc... all the ones I've seen all talk about being KC registered , and having 5 year pedigree histories etc... is this essential? Or is it possible to get one without that is still well raised and healthy etc...

Not sure I am phrasing my question very well LOL I obviously want a happy healthy well raised puppy, just not sure I can afford the sort of prices they seem to be.... suppose I'll just have to save up if that is the only option!

(oh and we did think about a rescue dog, but as we will be first time dog owners and have young children we decided this was not a good option)

Any advice welcome TIA

Well you certainly seem like you have done your homework :) nice to see for a change! :D

What sort of breeds(s) were you interested in?

If you look on dogpages you might find an abandoned puppy?
It would be absolutely no different from buying a puppy from a breeder

A decent breeder will carry out relevant health tests as well as regular health checks, special food for expecting bitches and then for the puppies and their mum's, worming, flea treatments, veterinary treatment etc. etc.

This all costs a heck of a lot and, even at £500 a puppy, a lot of breeders still lose money.

As on another thread, even many rescues charge more than £100 for a dog and I'd be very suspicious of any pedigree being sold for less than £100 because of a potential lack of health tests.

It may seem like you're saving money by buying a cheaper dog, but the costs it can incur later on in their life when they need vet treatment, operations, pain relief etc due to problems caused by poor breeding make it not worth while.

Most of these decent breeders also KC reg. as part of the whole thing - which is why the more expensive ones are KC registered - this isn't essential but there's also the question of why they're not if they're not. Some just don't bother but others don't have permission to breed from the breeder of their bitch or their dogs aren't KC registered, or have a questionable pedigree etc.

It all depends what you want really... are you looking for a pedigree? What breed?

Please be aware though, that you should begin to leave your puppy on it's own for small amounts of time from when you get it, and build up that time so that the puppy is used to being left in case it needs to be. Separation Anxiety is often a result of either being in contact with someone ALL the time and therefore unable to cope with being left, or by being left too long from the start.

Well you certainly seem like you have done your homework :) nice to see for a change! :D

What sort of breeds(s) were you interested in?

If you look on dogpages you might find an abandoned puppy?
It would be absolutely no different from buying a puppy from a breeder

Well it would... :lol:

I'd second rescue if you can find a rescue puppy that's fab (older dogs make great pets too if you would consider it, I don't know how old your kids are but puppies go through a long time where they mouth and nip and their teeth are VERY sharp!)

However - you don't know any of the health history of an abandoned puppy's family or whether any health tests were done. I'm not trying to put you off, rescue is great! Just offer an alternative viewpoint.

Well it would... :lol:

I'd second rescue if you can find a rescue puppy that's fab (older dogs make great pets too if you would consider it, I don't know how old your kids are but puppies go through a long time where they mouth and nip and their teeth are VERY sharp!)

However - you don't know any of the health history of an abandoned puppy's family or whether any health tests were done. I'm not trying to put you off, rescue is great! Just offer an alternative viewpoint.
Yeah thanks Lotti, I didn't mean to hit 'send' when I did!
I got distracted by having an excuse to go look on dogpages.... :blush: :roll:

I was refering specifically to
as we will be first time dog owners and have young children we decided this was not a good option
And pointing out that a young pup from a rescue centre is no more likey to have behavioural issues than one that costs lots of money (ie sometimes rescue centres get a whole litter of pups a few weeks old) people always assume that dogs are in rescue centres because they are troubled or abused, but that is not the case :)

Yeah thanks Lotti, I didn't mean to hit 'send' when I did!
I got distracted by having an excuse to go look on dogpages.... :blush: :roll:

I was refering specifically to

And pointing out that a young pup from a rescue centre is no more likey to have behavioural issues than one that costs lots of money (ie sometimes rescue centres get a whole litter of pups a few weeks old) people always assume that dogs are in rescue centres because they are troubled or abused, but that is not the case :)

I agree Katie,

loupoppins, often rescues will be able to give you the history of a dog if it's been handed in through no fault of it's own (ie. relationship break up/owner fell ill etc) and as Katie says, they sometimes get litters of pups in, but even an older dog may be a fab choice if you can find one with a known history.

Often people are surprised by how much children can be frightened by their new puppy because all puppies mouth and bite and their teeth are sharper than when adult... by adult stages, they don't do this anymore!

I think if I had such a small budget for the actual dog, I'd be inclined to look in rescue for puppies or dogs with known history.

oh thanks for all the wonderful and very helpful replies! Yes I hadnt really considered how much the puppy would have already cost the breeders, and I can see that £500 is actually quite reasonable.
The reason I had thought against rescue dogs was because most of the ones I had looked at locally have said that they need a lot of input, or have specific needs and nearly all have said suitable for children over 10 or 12 only, and we have younger children.I will keep an eye out for a suitable one though, as would be happy to rehome a youngish dog if it was tempramentally suited and would be happy with younger children.
Also a good point about leaving the puppy on its own for small ammounts of time - Would make a lot of sense as I'm sure that on occassion he would possibly be on his own for short periods ......
with regard to breeds I have been looking for something smallish that would be OK with younger children - am leaning to a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at the moment, or possibly a Bichon Frise, although next door have recently got the most gorgeous Labradoodle which is so good with the DC , and they love him , but not sure whether this would be larger than we could handle LOL..... Would also consider cross breed etc thoughas long as we knew tmprement f parents and could be sure they would be OK with children.
I had also considered the puppy and young children thing, but thought that maybe using safety gates etc to give puppy and child a seperate area when playing and gradually introducing them, supervised then it would be Ok...what do you all think?

oh and will probably just have to wait a bit longer to get the actual dog and save up a bit more! Gives me more time to get better prepared I suppose!

I think you're looking at it very sensibly! Without wanting to sound patronising I'm rather impressed actually! (We don't see that so often on the forum!)

I think your breeds are good thoughts and to be honest, had forgotten the young children rule. You could try approaching smaller rescues who will judge each case individually - the larger ones have very stuck fast rules about children whereas the 'small' ones can take each case on it's own merit and if the dog is suitable to be around younger children they will consider it.

I've not yet met a labradoodle that doesn't adore children but they are very bouncy as a rule and very strong. They are fab temperament wise but if your children are very young it could be just a little overpowering for them.

Very good idea on the safety gates - puppies need time away from children and vica versa, a crate may also be a good idea. In my experience dogs learn to love their crates and when we moved my puppy's crate out of the kitchen when she was a year old (we didn't have space for it so moved her into a bed) she was not impressed! She now has her bed under the kitchen table!
We have no leg room when sat at the kitchen table, but the dog's happy!

oh thanks Lotti! I was worried actually that there may be lots of things I hadnt thought of. I have wanted a dag for years, but this is the first time we have realistically been in a position to devote enough time and energy to one! ;)
I will keep an eye out for a suitable young rescue dog that may be Ok with young children and will save up some extra £ in the mean time for a puppy in a few months if not!It wouldn't be so bad if our car hadnt just died and needed major expensive repairs LOL:rolleyes:
Can anyone recomend a good book about the basics of looking after a new puppy that I could read up on in the mean time?:)

Best advice I was ever given was ask to visit a breeder and spend the time with them, see if you get on with the dogs.

I recently got a pair of Standard Dachshunds, I was convinced I wanted mini smooths, but after visiting a few breeders soon changed my mind, they are dreadful to house train!

Hi Louise,
We're going through exactly the same process as you - with 3 children and me a SAHM. If you do manage to save up, it's worth looking at the cockapoo. - It's a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle (you can get different sizes depending on whether the poodle parent is a miniature or a toy size). They are similar to labradoodles only smaller thus less of a shock to the little ones of the family.
See http://www.topmaccockapoos.webeden.co.uk/ for info!

Hi Louise,
We're going through exactly the same process as you - with 3 children and me a SAHM. If you do manage to save up, it's worth looking at the cockapoo. - It's a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle (you can get different sizes depending on whether the poodle parent is a miniature or a toy size). They are similar to labradoodles only smaller thus less of a shock to the little ones of the family.
See http://www.topmaccockapoos.webeden.co.uk/ for info!

They are lovely little dogs...but cockapoo's, I just hate that designer dog stuff, it's a good way of conning people into thinking that a x bred dog is something special (which of course it is in it's own right) it's all a money spinning venture in my opinion, breeding cute dogs for gullible people, and if they care about the dogs so much why let them have a litter every year...wonder if they would like to give birth to multiple babies each year :mad:

Sorry I just had to get that off my chest :hihi: just my opinion no one needs to listen and I'm sure that they wont.

When I was little my first ever dog was a cockerxpoodle, she wasn't a great dog for a family, she was fairly timid, totally un adventurous and would rather die than play with or go for a walk with a child, she was really a lap dog.

She was a fairly grumpy dog too (perhaps because she was spoiled by my Mum though :rolleyes: ) on the upside she was extremely pretty and cute, suppose it all depends on what you want from a dog really.

Hi Louise,
We're going through exactly the same process as you - with 3 children and me a SAHM. If you do manage to save up, it's worth looking at the cockapoo. - It's a cross between a cocker spaniel and a poodle (you can get different sizes depending on whether the poodle parent is a miniature or a toy size). They are similar to labradoodles only smaller thus less of a shock to the little ones of the family.
See http://www.topmaccockapoos.webeden.co.uk/ for info!

Cockers and Labradors are very different breeds of dog... the only way a "cockerpoo" and a "labradoodle" are similar is the poodle...

So it's a good idea to look into whether you would actually go about purchasing a poodle or cocker in the first place.

Unfortunately, the other problem with 'oodle' crosses is they are not breeds and you do not actually know what you'll get. 'Labradoodles' have been bred for quite a while now for working purposes and so, if you look in the right places you find 5 generations and up where you're more likely to be able to predict what you get. I've seen what are apparently "cockerpoo" dogs that are huge - because the poodle size comes through.
It is worth noting that any designer dog is a cross breed and as such you don't know which breed traits will come through with each individual. Your "cockerpoo" could easily end up almost the size of a standard poodle!

Hi this may sound contraversial but please dont write off the good old staffy most of my friends have actually picked a staffy or staffy cross after seeing how soft and good mine is with their kids she will let them play with her for ages and when she has had enough she will take her self off out of the way but that doesnt happen very often normally she lays next to them almost as if shes protecting them.

However I would like to add that I would nevr leave a child alone with any dog and I dont mean because I wouldnt trust the dog as sometimes it isnt their fault even though they get the blame. I believe someone put up an excellent video about a golden retriever and a baby a while ago where the toddler was tormenting the dog and you could see the dog trying to get away and them growling while the paren was happily filming and letting the kid carry on, if the dog had bit the kid the dog would have been to blame even though it was saying leave me alone.

Here I come waving my dog grooming stick.:hihi: Great replies but dont forget the work involved in long haired breeds, Bichons are a nightmare to maintain and mat very easily. If you have a young family, I imagine you dont want to spend time grooming every day, if this is the case, then dont get a long haired breed. You also have the costs of professional grooming long haired breeds, they may look cute and fluffy as puppies, but they need to be groomed to make sure they stay healthy and remain mat free.

I am talking myself out of a job arnt I?:D

Cockers and Labradors are very different breeds of dog... the only way a "cockerpoo" and a "labradoodle" are similar is the poodle...

So it's a good idea to look into whether you would actually go about purchasing a poodle or cocker in the first place.

Unfortunately, the other problem with 'oodle' crosses is they are not breeds and you do not actually know what you'll get. 'Labradoodles' have been bred for quite a while now for working purposes and so, if you look in the right places you find 5 generations and up where you're more likely to be able to predict what you get. I've seen what are apparently "cockerpoo" dogs that are huge - because the poodle size comes through.
It is worth noting that any designer dog is a cross breed and as such you don't know which breed traits will come through with each individual. Your "cockerpoo" could easily end up almost the size of a standard poodle!
Cockapoos have been breed since late 1950's The label 'designer' dog is an unfortunate one. Basically they are a cross breed, if you get one from a reputable breeder then you will be sure of their heritage (often both parents have several generations of pedigree). Their cross bred nature means they are a little less susceptable to the same genetic problems some pure breds have. Re. the size of them, this depends on the size of the poodle the cocker is bred with, if it is a toy poodle the height can be up to 12", if a miniature poodle was used they height can be up to 15". Their coats are sometimes wavy, sometimes curly but, generally, they shed less and are less like to cause allergies.

They are lovely little dogs...but cockapoo's, I just hate that designer dog stuff, it's a good way of conning people into thinking that a x bred dog is something special (which of course it is in it's own right) it's all a money spinning venture in my opinion, breeding cute dogs for gullible people, and if they care about the dogs so much why let them have a litter every year...wonder if they would like to give birth to multiple babies each year :mad:

Sorry I just had to get that off my chest :hihi: just my opinion no one needs to listen and I'm sure that they wont.

When I was little my first ever dog was a cockerxpoodle, she wasn't a great dog for a family, she was fairly timid, totally un adventurous and would rather die than play with or go for a walk with a child, she was really a lap dog.

She was a fairly grumpy dog too (perhaps because she was spoiled by my Mum though :rolleyes: ) on the upside she was extremely pretty and cute, suppose it all depends on what you want from a dog really.

I agree with the 'litter every year bit', this isn't a breeder I would use, just a useful website! Re. your first dog, I dont' think you can judge a breed (or crossbreed!) on one dog, I had a spaniel as my first dog, supposedly funloving and bouncy, also very timid! My second dog was a labrador who was very gentle, but I have a friend with 2 labs who, much as they are adorable, are very overpowering with my children!

Thank you for the info drp215

Do you know where you would find a breeder breeding several generation crosses? May be useful for anyone who is considering it?

I agree they are a cross breed and the Designer Dog label looks to have included the cockerpoo when it was clearly being bred before so many other people jumped on the wagon with the funniest names they could come up with.

I had, however, never heard of a cockerpoo until after the whole labradoodle thing. Were they being called cockerpoos way back? Or were they then (as they should be now imo) called cocker x poodles?

I can understand the reasoning behind labradoodles (though I know poodles have been succesfully used as service dogs so why they didn't just use a poodle for those with allergies I'm not entirely sure!) but it's such a shame they called them what they did - as I'm sure that's why there are so many crossbreed 'designer dogs' being bred now - just for who can get the silliest name.

Also - and this is something I am not very knowledgable on - eye problems are something that is noted in each of the cocker spaniel and the poodle, are these totally different or similar problems? Are they not exacerbated by the cross breed or have you only come across dogs bred from healthy, tested stock?

oh gosh lots of great replies again - you are all so knowledgable! And yes, good point about grooming etc... long haired breeds not such a good idea either then!
And yes I also dont subscribe to the whole "designer dog" thing, but also wouldnt mind a cross breed if it was right for us (and have sort of fallen in love with next doors labradoodle LOL although I think would be too overpowering for my younger kids!)
Any other ideas for breeds? Something smaller, good with young children, fun loving but not overly bouncy etc... would be OK with twice daily walks and garden time ....
....Any other ideas for breeds?

And yes, good point about grooming etc... long haired breeds not such a good idea either then!
Just to complicate things (sorry!)
Long haired is not necessarily bad.

We have a short haired dog, and he doesn't need grooming at all... but his hairs are EVERYWHERE all over the house! Little fine hairs that get into everything... work their way into the weave of fabrics, so even when clothes come straight out of the wash they are already covered in hairs!!

Some longer haired dogs don't shed hairs all day, every day. That's why they need the grooming, but that could be preferable??

I bet that is the opposite of helpful, isn't it?!

I would go for a Greyhound, perfect dogs in many ways, they are short haired, dont need mega long walks, rarely pull on the lead and happy for a 10 min blast and then sleep for the rest of the day. :love:

check out this website

www.greyhoundgap.com

Oh yes! LOL

Owning two dalmatians, I can sympathise with you Katie...

Short haired dogs cost less to keep tidy (in fact they take very little keeping tidy) but their hairs get everywhere and they get stuck in things - they're far more difficult, in my experience to remove from fabrics that long hairs!

A friend of mine sums my dogs up best... she once said 'I've never seen a dog shed hair upwards before'

You don't actually have to come into contact with my dogs, to get their hairs all over your clothes... :lol:

Just to complicate things (sorry!)
Long haired is not necessarily bad.

We have a short haired dog, and he doesn't need grooming at all... but his hairs are EVERYWHERE all over the house! Little fine hairs that get into everything... work their way into the weave of fabrics, so even when clothes come straight out of the wash they are already covered in hairs!!

Some longer haired dogs don't shed hairs all day, every day. That's why they need the grooming, but that could be preferable??

I bet that is the opposite of helpful, isn't it?!


oh yes, pet hair everywhere.... had forgotten about that - we used to have a bizarrley shedding rabbit LOL So long haired breeds shed less than short haired ....hmm may have to think some more LOL:hihi:


Not sure about greyhounds.... they're quite big.....

Not sure about greyhounds.... they're quite big.....

What about a whippet?, they are similar but smaller than greyhounds. My friend has got a puppy that is a whippet cross and it is great with her children (3 + 5) It is quite slight so little risk of knocking them over and she says it is a softie. It will not grow too large so is a perfect size but has got the energy to keep up with an active family and short haired so no muck to have to clean off.

The only down point is that she said it has been quite difficult to train as it's not too bright and likes to run off. :lol:

It's hard to find a medium sized dog that is not too high in energy! I find larger dogs much easier just because they tend to be a bit more slow and steady compared to your bright and alert smaller types. Though I know a lot of people will disagree.

If I had children I would go for a golden retriever every time, I'm bias though as thats what I grew up around :hihi: They are very puppy like and giddy for the first 3 years then suddenly just chill :) They tend to be quite bright and easy to train but fur and mud is a nightmare!

I can highly recommend cavaliers. I got Pippa when my daughter was 11 months. My daughter is now 3 and they are the best of friends. I also have an 11 week old and Pip has taken it all in her stride. No jealousy or anything. Cavies just love people. Pip was house trained by 18 weeks, and easy to walk with a pram due to her size.

You definately need to insure cavies though due to potential health problems

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc14/cuddlycats/pippa1-1.jpg

Oh yes! LOL

Owning two dalmatians, I can sympathise with you Katie...

Short haired dogs cost less to keep tidy (in fact they take very little keeping tidy) but their hairs get everywhere and they get stuck in things - they're far more difficult, in my experience to remove from fabrics that long hairs!

A friend of mine sums my dogs up best... she once said 'I've never seen a dog shed hair upwards before'

You don't actually have to come into contact with my dogs, to get their hairs all over your clothes... :lol:

Do you mean that clothes (and carpets and furniture) aren't actually supposed to have dog hair all over them???

I've got the worst of both worlds, Mina is black/grey and short haired and her hairs really get stuck in fabric, Zeb is part GSD and sheds fluffy beige undercoat in clouds. And if neither of them get me, the damn cat does instead!! :hihi:

For as many years as I can remember, I have never sat down in the house when wearing "good clothes". When I worked, I always put my dressing gown on the sofa if I had to sit down to put on boots, etc, so I didn't end up with a bum full of sheddings! And black was still always a nightmare - I must have kept the sellotape industry in profit for years.

I can highly recommend cavaliers. I got Pippa when my daughter was 11 months. My daughter is now 3 and they are the best of friends. I also have an 11 week old and Pip has taken it all in her stride. No jealousy or anything. Cavies just love people. Pip was house trained by 18 weeks, and easy to walk with a pram due to her size.

You definately need to insure cavies though due to potential health problems

http://i216.photobucket.com/albums/cc14/cuddlycats/pippa1-1.jpg


She is gorgeous cuddlycats - and great to hear they can be good with younger children. With regard to the health problems - is it heart and eye problems that are the most common? What percentage of te breed may be effected do you know? Is there any way to rule out problems when buying from a breeder or do some develop in later life? And how serious can the problems be? Sorry for the loads of questions but you seem a great source of knowledge! TIA;)

Thank you for the info drp215

Do you know where you would find a breeder breeding several generation crosses? May be useful for anyone who is considering it?

I agree they are a cross breed and the Designer Dog label looks to have included the cockerpoo when it was clearly being bred before so many other people jumped on the wagon with the funniest names they could come up with.

I had, however, never heard of a cockerpoo until after the whole labradoodle thing. Were they being called cockerpoos way back? Or were they then (as they should be now imo) called cocker x poodles?

I can understand the reasoning behind labradoodles (though I know poodles have been succesfully used as service dogs so why they didn't just use a poodle for those with allergies I'm not entirely sure!) but it's such a shame they called them what they did - as I'm sure that's why there are so many crossbreed 'designer dogs' being bred now - just for who can get the silliest name.

Also - and this is something I am not very knowledgable on - eye problems are something that is noted in each of the cocker spaniel and the poodle, are these totally different or similar problems? Are they not exacerbated by the cross breed or have you only come across dogs bred from healthy, tested stock?

Hi,
Not very knowledgeable either I'm afraid, just someone who researches things beyond belief before making a commitment (I can't buy a toaster without checking every review and opinion going!) I've looked on loads of sites but mainly on one called breedersonline, often you have to enquire further to get all the parentage details. Re. the eyes issue, most breeders will tell you the male/female parent is optigen tested clear.
I agree the name cockerpoo/cockapoo/spoodle! does sound silly and I object to the fact that people seem to 'charge' more for a cockapoo, which is afterall, a crossbreed, than a pedigree dog. However, I feel it's unfair that just because the media have jumped on the label 'designer dog', a crossbred that potentially could be a great family dog, is dismissed.
Dawn

oh gosh lots of great replies again - you are all so knowledgable! And yes, good point about grooming etc... long haired breeds not such a good idea either then!
And yes I also dont subscribe to the whole "designer dog" thing, but also wouldnt mind a cross breed if it was right for us (and have sort of fallen in love with next doors labradoodle LOL although I think would be too overpowering for my younger kids!)
Any other ideas for breeds? Something smaller, good with young children, fun loving but not overly bouncy etc... would be OK with twice daily walks and garden time ....
....Any other ideas for breeds?

Hi Louise,
Have you tried:
http://www.petplanet.co.uk/select_a_breed.asp
You can put in your criteria and it will tell you the best dogs for you - not sure if it has all the breeds but worth a look!
Dawn

Cavaliers need to be health tested for mitral valve and also MRI scanned for syringomyelia.

Cavvys are great dogs. I had one as a child and have one now, who was given up by one of my customers. I also have my other two rescued crossbreeds. They are a social dog and need company they hate being left for long periods. Absolutely great with kids very happy, fun dogs who will play all day.

Be warned though, they suffer from selective deafness and can be downright awkward.:hihi:

She is gorgeous cuddlycats - and great to hear they can be good with younger children. With regard to the health problems - is it heart and eye problems that are the most common? What percentage of te breed may be effected do you know? Is there any way to rule out problems when buying from a breeder or do some develop in later life? And how serious can the problems be? Sorry for the loads of questions but you seem a great source of knowledge! TIA;)

http://www.cavalierhealth.org/

Lots of info on here. Most cavies will eventually develop mitral valve disease at some point in their life. It is due to cavies been started from such a small gene pool.

Syringomyelia is also something to be aware of. I researched all the potential health problems they could have but im still so pleased i chose this breed. They have such a beautiful temperament.

Good luck in what you choose! Thought i should add-Pippa's insurance is £13 a month at the moment (cover for life), so even though they are prone to problems, the premium doesn't really reflect that.

Cannot recommed Caveliers enough for your situation, apart from the expense! oh and the hair shedding! have 4 kids myself, have recently lost beloved cavie at 13 and a half, my parents had a cavie also, lived til 10 ish, we are just about to embark down the puppy route, but will be doing my homework.

thanks for all the info! DRP215 I am just like you when it comes to researching things LOL you wouldnt believe how long it took me to choose a new vacuum cleaner - I think I became the worlds leading authority on vacuums LOL

Gemima - I am used to selective deafness - my 5 year old has the same problem LOL

Cuddlycats thanks for the info. insurance premium sounds reasonable - just concerened about poor dog getting sick .....hmm

Will have a look at links and do more research!

thanks for all the info! DRP215 I am just like you when it comes to researching things LOL you wouldnt believe how long it took me to choose a new vacuum cleaner - I think I became the worlds leading authority on vacuums LOL

LOL.... I did the same thing.... we ended up with a 'Miele cat and dog' after about 4 weeks on the internet and a free trial period with the Which? magazine!..... still it's never let me down!

thanks for all the info! DRP215 I am just like you when it comes to researching things LOL you wouldnt believe how long it took me to choose a new vacuum cleaner - I think I became the worlds leading authority on vacuums LOL

Gemima - I am used to selective deafness - my 5 year old has the same problem LOL

Cuddlycats thanks for the info. insurance premium sounds reasonable - just concerened about poor dog getting sick .....hmm

Will have a look at links and do more research!

Thats what i felt like at 1st but you cant guarantee the health of any dog. I had a puppy that died after a reaction to his microchip at 10 weeks old. I know it sounds awful-but anything can happen (if that makes sense)

Oh an update LOL I put an add on a free adds site for a pupy or young dog in need of rehoming....not really expecting a response.... and a lovely lady has just rung to say she has a 6 1/2 month cross breed that she is looking for a new home for. She doesnt know what breeds it is - she got it as a rescue dog from the RSPCA when she was 10 weeks old. She says she is a small breed, very friendly and good with children. She is rehoming her as she (as in the lady LOL) has got a new job with long hours which also involves going away over night, and is really sad to let her go.She has been fully vet checked and imunised to date......She is house trained, and walks on a lead. She never nips or mouths....
So what do you all think? Shall I go have a look at her? Does it sound a bad idea if I dont know what breeds she is? If I do go and see her what paperwork should I ask to see? Any views??

I would go and have a look at least, see what you think.

If this would be your first dog, do you know anyone who has a better experience of dogs and could go with you to help you get a good idea of what this dog might grow into?

I don't see why you shouldn't go and have a look - but don't wear rose tinted specs, and don't be guilt tripped into taking her. If you're not sure walk away - that's your right.

Good luck!

she got it as a rescue dog from the RSPCA when she was 10 weeks old
do dogs not hve to be returned to the rspca?? I may be wrong but thought it was in the contract?

Good luck though if you are able to rehome it :)

do dogs not hve to be returned to the rspca?? I may be wrong but thought it was in the contract?

Good luck though if you are able to rehome it :)

Yes they do, and yes it is I'm afraid...I think that sometimes they will let you re-home it if you get permission and have a home check done by them, if not there may be a problem with the ownership of the dog if they find out.

In that case Lou I would be very careful about rehoming this dog without contacting the rspca aswell.

Yes they do, and yes it is I'm afraid...I think that sometimes they will let you re-home it if you get permission and have a home check done by them, if not there may be a problem with the ownership of the dog if they find out.

The RSPCA never home checked my parents after christmas when they got their dog

The RSPCA never home checked my parents after christmas when they got their dog

Not wanting to doubt you CV but are you sure it was RSPCA nd not the dog pound which is where the old RSPCA used to be, I only ask because quite a few people get this muddled up, I do know that every time that I have ever known about the RSPCA do homecheck...can anyone else please clarify?

Just edited to add that I just took a look on the RSPCA website, the link is here (http://rspcasheffield.homeip.net/cgi-bin/makepage.py?menu=animalscode.dat&targetpage=shelter/procedure.dat) it seems that they do still homecheck :confused:

I might be wrong then. It does happen sometimes not often though lol

oh thanks for the replies - I will check with her about rspca then.
Only have hit a slight problem as I seem to have written her number down wrog so cant call her back:(....sigh...but if she does call me back I will definitely double check it was rspca she got it from. Thanks for the tips.

I think miniature schnautzers are fantastic little dogs. My friend breeds them and sometimes has some older ones that they sell on too which will have got out of the total puppy stage.

Don't look into things too deep - gosh if we believed all the books they tell us about kids - there would be no population at all - I for one wouldn't have ever taken on due to the scarey stories.

You need to read up how to bring up a well behaved and well socialised young dog. How children should behave around dogs - and ensure that all members of the family stick to firm and fair rules and odds are you wont have a problem.

Personally i love staffies and miniature schnautzers as great family dogs if u just want small ish ones but its down to your individual needs

My list would be

spaniels (not springers as they take alot of work and mental exercise), labradors, stay away from labradoodles cos they have been bred as a fashion accessory and i hate that stuff. bichon friese (sp) are nice as are westies and retrievers.

I would stay away from labs and retrievers if you have young kids might sound contraversial just my opinion but if you want a dog to show you and the kids total love and devotion and your willing to treat the dog firmly you cant beat the temprament of a staffy that has been brought up cared for with love. And when I say love I mean telling off when they have been bad and rewrding when good I guarantee that anyone who owns a staffy on here will say the same the reputation they get from some idiots that own them is totally untrue for most of them.

Thanks all. Great replies as always! I have been driving myself mad looking at endless pages of recue dogs - but without fail they all say No Young Children :( Myabe I could sell a child or two and get a puppy instead LOL:hihi:

SIX KIDS! I get the feeling a puppy will be a walk in the park for you. Puppies are hard work, but with that many kids, you must be superwoman. I struggle with 2 lol.

I think miniature schnautzers are fantastic little dogs. My friend breeds them and sometimes has some older ones that they sell on too which will have got out of the total puppy stage.

Don't look into things too deep - gosh if we believed all the books they tell us about kids - there would be no population at all - I for one wouldn't have ever taken on due to the scarey stories.

You need to read up how to bring up a well behaved and well socialised young dog. How children should behave around dogs - and ensure that all members of the family stick to firm and fair rules and odds are you wont have a problem.

Personally i love staffies and miniature schnautzers as great family dogs if u just want small ish ones but its down to your individual needs

Fantastic advice, I've learnt a lot from this topic!

On another note, the Miniature Schnauzer is not a dog I'd considered but looking into them they seem gorgeous!
Can I though please, in my defence of 'designer dogs' who many of here have decided they dislike... point out this:

"The Miniature Schnauzer originated in Germany in the late 17th century and was developed from breeding the Standard Schnauzer with smaller breeds, such as the poodle and the Affenpinscher" !

Oh Very Exciting update!! the lovely lady who rangme about rehoming her little crossbreed rang me back and we went to see the dog today - she is gorgeous - and is now asleep in our kitchen LOL
Turns out she came from Sheffield Council pound, not rspca, and they dont have return her there - they are free to rehome her themselves. I took the children with me to visit her and she was great with them - friendly but also calm. She has obvioulsy beed really well looked after. She was beautifully groomed and has been fully vaccinated and wormed and defleed etc.... The only thing is she hasnt been neutered yet as they were advised to wait till after her first season, but they will get vouchers from the council for neutering and so are going to forward them to us.
She seemed really well behaved. Followed all basic commands. Walks well on and off a lead. Fully house trained in the day - does still have occasional accident at night....
Taking her home was quite upsetting though. The poor lady was so upset...but we have said she is welcome to visist. I am worried fr little Bella though - hope she wont be too sad for too long. When we got in she ran round and round looking confused - no doubt looking for her old mommy - poor love. We have given her lots of cuddles tonight - but also let her go off to her bed in the kitchen when she wants as we dont want to overwhlem her....

So what I need now is lots of tips on how to help her settle in.... do you think she will miss her old home for long - I hate to think of her being sad.....but then again I'm happy we were able to give her a home rather than her having to go to a rescue

Oh I'm so excitied!

Lots of advice needed though!!!

Oh how lovely! Hope your first night goes well and Bella settles in quickly. Put on a photo when you have time between your (now) 7 little ones!

PS... very envious... I think it'll be about another year before we get a dog! :( Think about it every day.

oh yes I will definitwly put up a pic .... and yes with 6 DC in the house already I'm sure one more wont make too much extra work LOL :hihi:

Just a shot in the dark Louise, but you don't have a friend called Mel do you?

Just leave her to settle in and continue as you are really... give her attention when she's up for it, if she wants to be left alone - leave her be.

It was really easy for me, Eddy didn't seem to miss his previous owner at all! When she came back to see him a year later, he went to greet her, realised who she was and came and sat by me!

I felt so sorry for his owner but whilst it was a little sad for her, she could see he was very happy where he was.

Hopefully it won't be long and she'll have plenty to take her mind off it - it's not like she's all alone.

Congratulations :) Hope she settles in quickly!

Cavaliers need to be health tested for mitral valve and also MRI scanned for syringomyelia.

Cavvys are great dogs. I had one as a child and have one now, who was given up by one of my customers. I also have my other two rescued crossbreeds. They are a social dog and need company they hate being left for long periods. Absolutely great with kids very happy, fun dogs who will play all day.

Be warned though, they suffer from selective deafness and can be downright awkward.:hihi:


Isn't that like most breeds of dogs Gemima?? :hihi:

Oh Very Exciting update!! the lovely lady who rangme about rehoming her little crossbreed rang me back and we went to see the dog today - she is gorgeous - and is now asleep in our kitchen LOL
Turns out she came from Sheffield Council pound, not rspca, and they dont have return her there - they are free to rehome her themselves. I took the children with me to visit her and she was great with them - friendly but also calm. She has obvioulsy beed really well looked after. She was beautifully groomed and has been fully vaccinated and wormed and defleed etc.... The only thing is she hasnt been neutered yet as they were advised to wait till after her first season, but they will get vouchers from the council for neutering and so are going to forward them to us.
She seemed really well behaved. Followed all basic commands. Walks well on and off a lead. Fully house trained in the day - does still have occasional accident at night....
Taking her home was quite upsetting though. The poor lady was so upset...but we have said she is welcome to visist. I am worried fr little Bella though - hope she wont be too sad for too long. When we got in she ran round and round looking confused - no doubt looking for her old mommy - poor love. We have given her lots of cuddles tonight - but also let her go off to her bed in the kitchen when she wants as we dont want to overwhlem her....

So what I need now is lots of tips on how to help her settle in.... do you think she will miss her old home for long - I hate to think of her being sad.....but then again I'm happy we were able to give her a home rather than her having to go to a rescue

Oh I'm so excitied!

Lots of advice needed though!!!

Sorry to be a killjoy but unless the pound have aggreed another deal they have no vouchers to issue people on here may remember the arguments I had with them as my parents took on a bitch as they were offered a voucher and then were told there were non left.

Please check up and make 100% sure you can have a voucher.

How was your first night, hope it went well! (or at least better than our night with our toddler!)

You can't beat a Border Terrier for temperament, they are brilliant! However, look out for certain health issues in different breeds, saves on vets bills.