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Need help from dogowners

(38 posts)

Started 4 months ago by Cate
Latest reply from ballardgirl

Cate

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I live in a Condo with two Calico kitties. Today I fell in love with a mini Goldendoodle puppy - female, three months old - I don't even believe in designer dogs and think that responsible people rescue pets not buy them - my kitties came from the shelter. So I need you good people to talk me out of bringing this little sweetie home. Tell me all the reasons I shouldn't do this. (She really is a sweetie).

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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Because those dogs will always have someone to fall in love with them. There is a sweet dog waiting for you in a shelter. Hoping.

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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And look at the "Breeder reject" in my picture. With her bad genes, poor eyesight, hip dysplasia and her, gasp, discolored white and black nose that just wouldn't be accepted in any self respecting show ring. Isn't she perfect!

Posted 4 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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I don't believe in designer dogs either, as you can tell from my rescue! I think that the question is, "Is this a good time for training a puppy, with all the time and stress required to do it right". Otherwisw, no guilt necessary. You fell in love, didn't make a conscious decision to look for her\him.

Posted 4 months ago #
ballardo

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What SA said. But if you need a little more talking down, how about: chewed up shoes, belts, purses, furniture, carpet; getting up at 3 am for potty trips outside when it's butt-cold, cleaning up messes, time needed for training not to terrorize cats or jump up on people, etc. etc. Oh and perhaps some emergency trips to the vet for digestive indiscretions.

I love my dog dearly. ;) But I have vowed, no more puppies.

Posted 4 months ago #
enatai70

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Goldendoodles seem to be super prone to stinky fur. Maybe it's just me, but their fur is kind of gross.

Posted 4 months ago #
boatgeek

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We've had both cats and dogs, and dogs are a heck of a lot more work. Even a breed that doesn't need a lot of grooming takes a lot of maintenance time (walking, training, poop picking in the backyard, etc.).

Posted 4 months ago #
great idea

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maybe you can rescue an older goldendoodle? or get a rescue puppy that might be a similar mix/temperment?

anyway, my vote is to get a dog. they're much better than cats in pretty much every category (aside from going away w/o a petsitter).

Posted 4 months ago #
earl danger

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If you're absolutely in love with the breed (and doodles ARE great dogs - super smart, non-shedding) look into adopting an older one. We fell in love with the Schnauzer but still wanted to rescue - we found Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue and got our little man almost 3 years ago. After rescuing an adult dog, I'll never, ever get a puppy for our condo! Adult dogs need love too!

Posted 4 months ago #
phoo

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The trouble with buying that awesome puppy from the breeder is another can take its place and it encourages the breeder to do more. Now, some breeders are actually responsible - I am not 100% against 100% of breeders, but I don't think we really need more dogs in the world. "Designer dogs" are just overpriced mutts. Don't get me wrong, there is NOTHING WRONG with a mutt, but I do think there's something wrong with charging an egrious amount for it. Come to think of it, I think there's something wrong with charging an egregious amount for any animal. And of course, if the person selling the puppy is not a painstaking reputable breeder, there's all manner of things that could be wrong with the dog, after you pay that outrageous price. BTW, it is not "adopting" a dog if you're paying several hundred bucks for it. Many people profitting from a dog now call it "adopting" while asking for 600++ for it. Nope.

The same principle applies to rescues - when you adopt one you both encourage the rescue or shelter and make room for another to take its place. Since they aren't being replaced by brand new puppies, you're making room for another life to be saved.

I also share the same point others have made about puppies. Some day when my housing and budget allows, I'd like to get a dog. A dog, not a puppy. You'll have to go through potty training, teenage years, chewing, etc. Add to this possible other dog problems: obediance school, possible separation anxiety, fixing barking issues and probably a whole other host of things I am not aware of because I've never owned a dog. Oh, and I hope you don't mind going outside when it's 33F and raining like hell outside, because that dog will still need walking.

This may not be an issue for you, but dogs can be expensive. I know there's a lot of controversy about GOOD food and also how expensive it can be for the healthy stuff. It can also be especially expensive to get vet visits. You may think it is a long time off in the future when getting a puppy, but you never know what you're going to get.

Posted 4 months ago #
dsomers

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Morning Cate!

My gut reaction to breeders is poor....but that is not very sensible. Most are careful and responsible and care about the animals. And when we rail against "designer breeds" remember that we owe ALL of the breeds we currently enjoy to the efforts of people breeding dogs throughout history. Wihout them the variations in breeds would be very, very limited, with most dogs being more like dingos than what we know today.

That said. If the time is right for you to own a dog and you understand the committment you are making, and have found one who has wormed its way into your heart I say go for it. And much joy to both of you!

Dave

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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What Ballardo said. Oh dear god what Ballardo said. I spent much of the first 3 years muttering under my breath IdoovemydogIdolovemydogIdolovemy....

and what phoo said.

Posted 4 months ago #
pennygirl

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Bravo dsomers!

Sometimes a puppy steals your heart and there's nothing you can do about it. Sometimes a rescue dog steals your heart and there's nothing you can do about it. Call it fate.

As for potty training - it isn't as hard as people imagine it to be.

Posted 4 months ago #
RichY

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+1 for dsomers, The only thing the dog wants is a loyal owner to be loyal back.

Take politics out of decision making and if you really want the pup, do her (and you) a favor and take her home with you

Posted 4 months ago #
MrINTJ

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Of course do what Richy says

Posted 4 months ago #
gordy

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I've tried to write this five times but the standard poodle puppy keeps dropping her tennis ball on the keyboard! She came from a reputable local breeder after lots of research and past experience. The breeder keeps in contact with us and likes to be updated regarding how "her" puppies do in their new homes.
We adopted a dog from SPDR ten years ago. They rescued him from a puppy mill and the owner didn't give any health histories on the dogs. When you adopt from a rescue group they may not know the dog's family health history. That dog did get severe medical issues that we had no way of predicting, his health care became very expensive towards the end. The love that dog had for his family and us for him was extraordinary.
See if a friend or neighbor will bring their dog by so you can see how the cats do at home with canines.
Poodles or poodle mixes require frequent grooming. Usually every six to eight weeks with baths as needed. White pups require baths more often. You are supposed to brush them often. The food the breeder suggested for the puppy is available at All the Best and is reasonably priced. Puppies-they come with relatively little emotional baggage, require lots of attention and consistent training. Vet costs the first year basically will be shots, an exam and then spay/neuter. Our pup will be going to the City SpayNeuter Clinic for her procedure. Dogs-may have issues, once the dog learns that he has a permanent and loving home you will have a loyal companion for the rest of its' life. Often adult dogs are already spayed/neutered and have had some training. Personally I'd be cautious and do tons of research before getting a goldendoodle or labradoodle. Too many stories about people breeding them for profit without considering health history or intelligence of the sire or dam. Our pup was chosen because she learns quickly and relatively calm, just like her sire.
Dave's last paragraph times two!!

Posted 4 months ago #
gordy

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Must admit that having a puppy is exhausting and patience testing but the joy and laughter make up for that. Poodle/poodle mixes learn housebreaking more rapidly than some other breeds (yeah!)

Posted 4 months ago #
pennygirl

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Terriers are also quick learners but completely unsuitable (in most instances) for a home with cats :-)

(Sorry, off topic - just an observation)

Posted 4 months ago #
earl danger

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@pennygirl - heck yes on the smart terriers. It's fabulous, and also a little scary sometimes. And yes, if you rescue an adult dog, there may already be issues no one knows about. We've spent much, much $$ on our little man, as his previous owners apparently never spent a dime on his health (multiple dentals, all shots, aural hemotomas, rx pet food.. it goes on and on). You need to be prepared for that. But, you're an adult, you know all about that stuff.

And owning a dog in a condo - it's not so bad. We take our little guy out at least three times daily, rain, sun, or snow, and you get used to it. And so do they.

Posted 4 months ago #
MrINTJ

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Well, what did you do today deer Cate?

Posted 4 months ago #
pennygirl

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earl danger is right. An adult rescue dog can come with all sorts of problems, none of their doing. As well as health issues, retraining at an older age is difficult, but not impossible if you are prepared to invest your time.

So in the end Cate, whatever you decide, whether it's a puppy or a rescue dog, as long as you are prepared to put your heart into it ( which you are) then you will be rewarded multiple doggie times.

Posted 4 months ago #
MrINTJ

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hey richy, is that your doggie?
BTW penny girl, you are very pretty.

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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"as long as you are prepared to put your heart into it ( which you are) then you will be rewarded multiple doggie times."

What a perfect way to put that Penny.

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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And richy what a great statement on your avatar! Who knows how many end up in shelters after the fact. It's really obvious at Easter time when the shelters and rescues explode with chickens and ducks and rabbits that stopped being chicks and ducklings and kits a few weeks after the holiday.

Posted 4 months ago #
VeganBiker

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Hi Cate - first off, what is a "mini Goldendoodle"?
Like most everyone has said, if you get the urge to give a home to a dog then go for it. You will figure it out as you go. However there are things to think about, one is making a commitment to take care of our adopted friend to the end.
My guy, in my Avatar was just over a year old when I adopted him and he came with all kinds of trials but he is worth it.
One thing I have to add is please feed your dog a vegan dog food! Why have other animals killed just to feed an animal that was made to satisfy human desires?
My dog has been on Natural Balance Vegetarian (vegan) formula food for over eight years and he is probably healthier than most of the dogs I see. He is almost 12 years old and keeps going like the Energizer Bunny! He still acts just like he did when i first saw him many years ago.
Please let us know what you end up doing. :)

Posted 4 months ago #
Cate

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Thank you all for your thoughtful and kind thoughts. After reading carefully all your thoughts I came to the realization I was really longing for a grandbaby and not a puppy.

Posted 4 months ago #
MrINTJ

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Ho Ho Ho, my deer deer Cate

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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Oh Cate, at the same time that you made me laugh my heart broke a little. I know how you feel. :(

Posted 4 months ago #
pennygirl

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If we are now posting useful info about having grandbabies I would say the first thing is not to labor the point :-)

Posted 4 months ago #
MrINTJ

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You have a child, i take it. How close is the birth? If not close enough, you could always adopt me and take our kids for outings.

Posted 4 months ago #
VeganBiker

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Cate - funny! I have a 37 yo daughter and I keep thinking I would like to be a grandpa some day.... Well I can dream.

PG - funny also and have you been watching the "Call the Midwife" series? I just watched the Christmas special and was forced to shed tears! :)

Posted 4 months ago #
lifeisamazing

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But with dogs and cats you don't have to wait for your kids to get around to it. I'm having all my animals give me kittens and puppies and I'll have lots and lots of grandbabies!

(don't get in a yank anyone, I'm kidding. Everyone has been snipped)

Posted 4 months ago #
gordy

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I know quite a few people who have "grand dogs" and "grand cats"

Posted 4 months ago #
magia76

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LOL - the puppy would be a lot less work and money than a grandchild! Not to mention, said potential grandchild would no doubt adore the dog :-D I love goldendoodles - so smart and goofy.

Posted 4 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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aw Cate, anytime you want to see how the cats react to a creamoodle, Lillie is ready to play. She may be the best solution here.

Posted 4 months ago #
gracie

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Cate - I say go with your heart. Even "designer dogs" need love. And this particular dog is a great dog. Everyone I know who owns one loves them as family pets, easy around kids, cats and absolutely adorable. The miniature ones are just too cute.

Posted 4 months ago #
SmartsyArtsy

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Cate, what color was this dog? was it grey?

Posted 4 months ago #
ballardgirl

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VB, I love 'call the MW', didnt know they had a christmas schedule, hope its on on demand. I was home sick this week, and ran out of things to watch, and found this:

'One Nation Under Dog', on HBO (on demand).

It was the most depressing thing I have ever seen, makes me want to rescue a dog from another state where they kill a bunch of dogs!

Cate, it sounds like you made the right decision for your situation, dogs are a huge committment!

Posted 4 months ago #