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Breed recommendation?



 
 
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  #1  
Old February 19th 09, 08:13 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Suja
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Posts: 2,483
Default Breed recommendation?

My BIL and kids (almost 3 and 7) are thinking about getting a dog. My SIL is
not a dog person, but BIL seems to think he can talk her into it, and he
LOVES dogs. She's been around my dogs for ages and is fine with them, pets
then, gives them treats, has offered to watch when we're on vacation (more
out of politeness than anything else, IMO) etc. but just not that into dogs.

He is thinking something along the lines of a Beagle. I suggested adult,
already known good with kids and mellow, because while BIL is a nice guy and
loves dogs, he's also lazy. I also said that unless SIL is on board 100%, no
dog for them, because she is going to be spending a good amount of time with
the dog, and will have to be at least somewhat responsible for care. I think
part of SIL's problem is the cleanliness issue, and I was thinking that a
low-shed dog might be better, but can't think of a low-shed breed that fits
all the other criteria (likely to be kid friendly, mellow, easily house
trained, sturdy, easy to find in shelter/rescue).

The kids are generally good with dogs. The 7 year old, especially so. The 3
year old has his moments (he is not hurtful, just has moments where he runs
around like a wild beast and might not watch where he's going), but is
generally a good kid. BIL and SIL work opposite schedules, so time alone for
the dog will be minimal. Assuming that all dogs get along, I've volunteered
to watch the dog for them when they go away on vacation.

I think that a larger dog would work better in their situation, but SIL is
more likely to agree if the dog is smaller (20 - 30 pound range). I'm not
sure at all about Beagles as a choice for them, because while they are
generally good natured dogs that are likely to get along with humans and
dogs, they also tend to be less tractable, more likely to be unreliable
off-leash, and can be loud. What sort of dog would you recommend (if any)?

Suja


  #2  
Old February 20th 09, 05:26 AM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Phyrie
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Posts: 427
Default Breed recommendation?


"Suja" wrote in message
...
My BIL and kids (almost 3 and 7) are thinking about getting a dog. My SIL
is not a dog person, but BIL seems to think he can talk her into it, and
he LOVES dogs. She's been around my dogs for ages and is fine with them,
pets then, gives them treats, has offered to watch when we're on vacation
(more out of politeness than anything else, IMO) etc. but just not that
into dogs.

He is thinking something along the lines of a Beagle. I suggested adult,
already known good with kids and mellow, because while BIL is a nice guy
and loves dogs, he's also lazy. I also said that unless SIL is on board
100%, no dog for them, because she is going to be spending a good amount
of time with the dog, and will have to be at least somewhat responsible
for care. I think part of SIL's problem is the cleanliness issue, and I
was thinking that a low-shed dog might be better, but can't think of a
low-shed breed that fits all the other criteria (likely to be kid
friendly, mellow, easily house trained, sturdy, easy to find in
shelter/rescue).

The kids are generally good with dogs. The 7 year old, especially so. The
3 year old has his moments (he is not hurtful, just has moments where he
runs around like a wild beast and might not watch where he's going), but
is generally a good kid. BIL and SIL work opposite schedules, so time
alone for the dog will be minimal. Assuming that all dogs get along, I've
volunteered to watch the dog for them when they go away on vacation.

I think that a larger dog would work better in their situation, but SIL is
more likely to agree if the dog is smaller (20 - 30 pound range). I'm not
sure at all about Beagles as a choice for them, because while they are
generally good natured dogs that are likely to get along with humans and
dogs, they also tend to be less tractable, more likely to be unreliable
off-leash, and can be loud. What sort of dog would you recommend (if
any)?

Suja


Although I have no idea how available they would be in shelter/rescue, I
can't recommend Cavalier King Charles Spaniels highly enough. They top out
at 20 pounds though (I keep Kiba at 17-18 pounds), so may not be as large as
your BIL would like. But for sheer love in a fur coat, you can't beat a
Cav. They are content to lie at your feet, or run in the bush, whatever you
want. They're intelligent, and easily trained. They do not like to be
alone, but that won't be a problem in your BIL's situation. If any animal
can convince your SIL that dogs are swell, it's one of these guys! Just
MHO, of course. :-D

There are health issues, though. Be aware of that, although I'm sure that
statement rings true for most breeds.
--
Phyrie
Kiba the Cav's Pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/phyrie/...758930/detail/


  #3  
Old February 20th 09, 07:26 AM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
William Clodius[_2_]
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Posts: 149
Default Breed recommendation?

Suja wrote:

My BIL and kids (almost 3 and 7) are thinking about getting a dog. My SIL is
not a dog person, but BIL seems to think he can talk her into it, and he
LOVES dogs. She's been around my dogs for ages and is fine with them, pets
then, gives them treats, has offered to watch when we're on vacation (more
out of politeness than anything else, IMO) etc. but just not that into dogs.

He is thinking something along the lines of a Beagle. I suggested adult,
already known good with kids and mellow, because while BIL is a nice guy and
loves dogs, he's also lazy. I also said that unless SIL is on board 100%, no
dog for them, because she is going to be spending a good amount of time with
the dog, and will have to be at least somewhat responsible for care. I think
part of SIL's problem is the cleanliness issue, and I was thinking that a
low-shed dog might be better, but can't think of a low-shed breed that fits
all the other criteria (likely to be kid friendly, mellow, easily house
trained, sturdy, easy to find in shelter/rescue).

The kids are generally good with dogs. The 7 year old, especially so. The 3
year old has his moments (he is not hurtful, just has moments where he runs
around like a wild beast and might not watch where he's going), but is
generally a good kid. BIL and SIL work opposite schedules, so time alone for
the dog will be minimal. Assuming that all dogs get along, I've volunteered
to watch the dog for them when they go away on vacation.

I think that a larger dog would work better in their situation, but SIL is
more likely to agree if the dog is smaller (20 - 30 pound range). I'm not
sure at all about Beagles as a choice for them, because while they are
generally good natured dogs that are likely to get along with humans and
dogs, they also tend to be less tractable, more likely to be unreliable
off-leash, and can be loud. What sort of dog would you recommend (if any)?

Suja


Afew additional points to consider in evaluating potential dogs. How
large is their house and is it multistory or otherwise problematic for
older dogs? How will their yard be set up? If they have a fence is it
easy to dig under, jump over, or climb? Do they live in the mid-Atlanic
region or is the climate unusually stressful for some breeds?

In terms of cleanliness most things scale simply with size, but drool is
an exception. It is usually a minor problem for dogs under 60 lbs and a
major consideration over 100 lbs. How does the SIL feel about drool? IF
she can stand it the most tolerant dog with kids might be the Neuf.

Generally with children under six years of age I recommend avoiding most
breeds under 15 lbs, as too fragile. I would also avoid most terriers,
as too active and nippy. However the two Border Terriers I have known
would have worked well with young children. Not as loud as beagles, but
unreliable off leash. The two Airedales I have known were also
relatively calm for terriers.

If the BIL is considering Beagles he might also consider a Basset Hound.
The strong pack orientation often bounds well with kids. The size is big
enough to put up with minor abuse. They look smaller than they really
are because of their legs, which might appeal to the SIL. I believe they
are easier to train than a Beagle, not that that's saying much. The
contractor that built our house had a well trained pair that could be
walked reliably off leash. They are loud, however, and can have problems
with drool.

If they are not looking for a playmate for the kids, an older Greyhound
could work out well.

With children that small I would avoid the nippier herding breeds:
Shelties, Corgies, and Heelers.

How do they feel about your brother's Boston Terrier? If they like him
wouw would they feel about a French Bulldog?

I have really liked the personalities of the Shar-Peis I have met,, but
they do seem prone to eye and skin problems.

--
Bill Clodius
los the lost and net the pet to email
  #5  
Old February 20th 09, 04:26 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Suja
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Posts: 2,483
Default Breed recommendation?


"Phyrie" wrote in message:

Although I have no idea how available they would be in shelter/rescue,


That'll definitely be an issue.

There are health issues, though. Be aware of that, although I'm sure that
statement rings true for most breeds.


IMO, most breeds don't have the same type of serious issues that Cavs have,
which is unfortunate, since they're terrific dogs. I don't think I can in
good conscience recommend a breed that will develop MVD. Plus, my vet says
that every Cav she's seen has serious back problems, and that is a really
bad combination with kids.

Suja


  #6  
Old February 20th 09, 04:31 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Suja
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 2,483
Default Breed recommendation?


"William Clodius" wrote in message:

How
large is their house and is it multistory or otherwise problematic for
older dogs?


It's your typical multistory townhouse. Plenty big, but lots of stairs.
However, my dogs do just fine there, and they aren't spring chicken exactly.

How will their yard be set up? If they have a fence is it
easy to dig under, jump over, or climb? Do they live in the mid-Atlanic
region or is the climate unusually stressful for some breeds?


Yard is the size of a small deck. 6' privacy fenced. It might work for
emergency potty purposes, but not otherwise. They live fairly close to me,
so no harsh weather conditions (other than ice in winter and hotter than
hades heat in summer)

IF
she can stand it the most tolerant dog with kids might be the Neuf.


Are you kidding me? Drool + hair. It's the stuff her nightmares are made
of, I'm sure.

How do they feel about your brother's Boston Terrier? If they like him
wouw would they feel about a French Bulldog?


Everyone loves Shazzy. She's just that kind of dog. A larger Boston might
work, although I'm not sure about the energy levels.

I have really liked the personalities of the Shar-Peis I have met,, but
they do seem prone to eye and skin problems.


Plus, they tend to be dog aggressive.

Suja


  #7  
Old February 20th 09, 04:34 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Melinda Shore
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Posts: 7,732
Default Breed recommendation?

In article ,
Suja wrote:
IMO, most breeds don't have the same type of serious issues that Cavs have,
which is unfortunate, since they're terrific dogs. I don't think I can in
good conscience recommend a breed that will develop MVD. Plus, my vet says
that every Cav she's seen has serious back problems, and that is a really
bad combination with kids.


Yeah - they seem like awfully nice dogs but the health
problems just sound insane. It's not something I would
choose for myself.
--
Melinda Shore - Software longa, hardware brevis -

Prouder than ever to be a member of the reality-based community
  #8  
Old February 20th 09, 07:04 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Tara Green
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Posts: 711
Default Breed recommendation?

Suja wrote:
"Phyrie" wrote in message:

Although I have no idea how available they would be in shelter/rescue,


That'll definitely be an issue.

There are health issues, though. Be aware of that, although I'm sure that
statement rings true for most breeds.


IMO, most breeds don't have the same type of serious issues that Cavs have,
which is unfortunate, since they're terrific dogs. I don't think I can in
good conscience recommend a breed that will develop MVD. Plus, my vet says
that every Cav she's seen has serious back problems, and that is a really
bad combination with kids.

There are dozens of Cavs in my area.

Only the teeeeniest minority came from
breeders that I wouldn't want to beat with a
large stick.

But only a small number of them have
developed the physical problems that the
breed is famous for.

The one I was keeping an eye on most (puppy
mill Cavvy, from a warehouse style pet shop)
has, at age 7, some slight arthritis in his
back leg. That's about it.

While I think its important to be careful,
and I know my experience is nothing more than
anecdotal, I simply haven't been seeing a
higher percentage of issues in that breed
than in any other.
  #9  
Old February 20th 09, 07:34 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
diddy[_2_]
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 3,108
Default Breed recommendation?

Tara Green spoke these words of wisdom in
:

Suja wrote:
"Phyrie" wrote in message:

Although I have no idea how available they would be in shelter/rescue,


That'll definitely be an issue.

There are health issues, though. Be aware of that, although I'm sure
that statement rings true for most breeds.


IMO, most breeds don't have the same type of serious issues that Cavs
have, which is unfortunate, since they're terrific dogs. I don't think
I can in good conscience recommend a breed that will develop MVD.
Plus, my vet says that every Cav she's seen has serious back problems,
and that is a really bad combination with kids.

There are dozens of Cavs in my area.

Only the teeeeniest minority came from
breeders that I wouldn't want to beat with a
large stick.

But only a small number of them have
developed the physical problems that the
breed is famous for.

The one I was keeping an eye on most (puppy
mill Cavvy, from a warehouse style pet shop)
has, at age 7, some slight arthritis in his
back leg. That's about it.

While I think its important to be careful,
and I know my experience is nothing more than
anecdotal, I simply haven't been seeing a
higher percentage of issues in that breed
than in any other.


My vet adores Cavs. He has tried several times to import and/or find good
breeders, doing health tests. He think's he's found "The one" at great
expense, and after great vetting of the breeders, and every dog he's
purchased has developed issues relatively young eliminating them as
breeding prospects.

Of course my vet was aware of the problems of the breed, and went looking
for issues long before they were clinical.

So perhaps the owners of the cavs that you are familiar with simply haven't
looked yet?
Perhaps their issues are subclinical?

How about a Boykin?
  #10  
Old February 20th 09, 07:41 PM posted to rec.pets.dogs.breeds
Tara Green
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 711
Default Breed recommendation?

diddy wrote:
Tara Green spoke these words of wisdom in
:

Suja wrote:
"Phyrie" wrote in message:

Although I have no idea how available they would be in shelter/rescue,
That'll definitely be an issue.

There are health issues, though. Be aware of that, although I'm sure
that statement rings true for most breeds.
IMO, most breeds don't have the same type of serious issues that Cavs
have, which is unfortunate, since they're terrific dogs. I don't think
I can in good conscience recommend a breed that will develop MVD.
Plus, my vet says that every Cav she's seen has serious back problems,
and that is a really bad combination with kids.

There are dozens of Cavs in my area.

Only the teeeeniest minority came from
breeders that I wouldn't want to beat with a
large stick.

But only a small number of them have
developed the physical problems that the
breed is famous for.

The one I was keeping an eye on most (puppy
mill Cavvy, from a warehouse style pet shop)
has, at age 7, some slight arthritis in his
back leg. That's about it.

While I think its important to be careful,
and I know my experience is nothing more than
anecdotal, I simply haven't been seeing a
higher percentage of issues in that breed
than in any other.


My vet adores Cavs. He has tried several times to import and/or find good
breeders, doing health tests. He think's he's found "The one" at great
expense, and after great vetting of the breeders, and every dog he's
purchased has developed issues relatively young eliminating them as
breeding prospects.

Of course my vet was aware of the problems of the breed, and went looking
for issues long before they were clinical.

So perhaps the owners of the cavs that you are familiar with simply haven't
looked yet?
Perhaps their issues are subclinical?


Nope.

As much as I hate to say it out loud for fear
of contributing to BYBs and puppy mill sales,
the only cavs that *are* showing any of the
dreaded diseases are owned by people who
carefully researched.

Trust me, I made certain that those I knew
with BYB and PM Cavs were up to date on all
the things that can go wrong. These are
affluent people living in an affluent
neighborhood in NYC. The vets in this
neighborhood are beyond amazing.

If there's a problem, it would be found.
That's not the case....at least in my
immediate vicinity.
 




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