What Kind of Dog Should We Get?

When my kids were in K, 2 and 4 grades we got a cocker spaniel. She just died on New Year's Eve, she was almost 15. She was the best dog ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi A.,

We have a golden retriever and they are the best! He is amazing with my 1 year old daughter, even when she is poking him in the eye and yanking on his tail or ears. In addition, he loves to spend time outdoors so he makes a great walking companion. On the downside, golden retrievers are often hard to find at shelters, especially a young one. However, there is a group in Portland that rescues golden retrievers and tries to match them with great families. I can't quite remember the name but a simple web search would tell you.
good luck!

Hi A.,

My family recently ended up with a Standar King poodle, they are great with kids and animals, yet protective against intruders. they are very smart dogs and they are hypoallergenic. (my husband is allergic to other types of animals)they are relatively low energy, but do need to be taken for walks frequently.
Hope this helps.

I'm not sure how much space you have but Labs are great dogs! We had our first yellow lab before kids and he adjusted great to having little ones. My kids have pput there hands in there (yes, we just got another yellow Lab) mouths, they tackle them, surprise them, and LOVE them. My dogs have never even looked cross at my kids. Our first Lab was very well trained but the second one my husband brought home when I already had 2 babies at home so I didn't have much time. But she's amazing too. I knew we had the right dogs for kids when my son was an infant in the excersaucer and when I turned around my son had the dog by the lip and was bouncing up and down...needless to say I don't recommend this but it's nice to know that when you can't see everything you don't have to worry too much. Plus big dogs are great to run/walk with.
Good Luck!

Hi there, I just saw the post today, congrats on your new dog. i am so glad you found one in need of a home, while I have the utmost respect for breeders, and purebreds, there are so many animals in need.I fostered for several years, I know firsthand. I just thought I would add my input for anyone interested in getting a dog. I grew up with Brittany Spaniels, LOVE THEM. My next dog will be a brittany, however, I will get it from a Rescue Group. I have had many dogs, never lost one to anything but old age. I have had 2 Pit-Bull/ Boxer mixes, excellent family dogs. My current Pit/ Boxer, Sunshine, is very protective of our 5 year old, and our daughter before she passed at 75 days. Sunshine would put herself between the baby(ies) and someone besides me or Daddy. I had a Sheppard I got when he was 13, great dog. I had a little poodle/shnauzer mix, was excellent with kids, though she barked if the wind blew.:-)Maybe I have just been blessed, but I have had excellent dogs. A word of caution, Boxers tend to have skin issues. I fostered a super sweet Australian Blue Heeler. I was really happy you did not get responses negative to certain breeds. My belief is it is 90% how they are raised, 10% genes. My husband had Newfoundlands before we were married, swore bt them with his daughter. So our next ones will be a Brittany and either a Newfie or a Great Dane ( I have always wanted, never even got to foster one).Just wanted to share. Please remember to check out your local Animal Rescue, and if you want a pure-bred, check out rescue groups. You can even get puppies. Just log on to the breed you are interested in, and rescue groups will pop up. Good Luck, and God Bless, A.

We have a Norwegian Elkhound. (My family raised them, so I've been around them all my life.) They are fabulous family dogs, but it's pretty rare to find one in an animal shelter. My sister is a Shelter Manager and she almost always is able to identify the dogs that would make especially good family pets. Ask the shelter workers if they have any animals they'd particularly like to recommend. This is how I ended up with our cat (which I wasn't even looking to adopt). You can see what a great family pet this silly cat turned out to be if you'd like to look at a video I posted at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYAc8NmsQWg

I've had several dogs over the years. With my son, I've learned that sometimes it isn't so much the breed of the dog you want to look for, but a dog that has the personality to melt with your family. I've had pets that were full bred and I have mixed breeds. My best dog was a mixed breed. Out of the whole litter, he was the only one that approached my son (my son was about 1 1/2yr at the time)and was as gentle as could be with him. He never nipped, bit, or became rough with my son. Was never a danger the whole time we had him. It's a subject that is hard to approach because sometimes, you'll know when you find the dog you want. You'll look in his/her eyes and know that the dog you pick, will make an excellent addition to your family. :D Good luck!
~B.

That is so great that you found a dog and how neat that is wasn't a puppy. That makes it easier for you and nice since puppies are the popular age to adopt!
I volunteer for Saving paws a no kill shelter locally and have 3 dogs (one is a puppy) and a cat. We have fostered a few cats and hope someday to foster dogs after our older one passes away. It is too hard to try to do that with 2 dogs.

Anyway, I have 7 and 4 year-old boys and I am sure having a dog will add to your family's lives in so many ways! I think dogs and cats are great together!!!

Golden Retriever!!! (or golden mix)
We have one and he is as patient as the day is long with our 2 yr old and cats. And they are perfect for taking on walks because they are always rearing to go.
Loveable, cuddly, energetic, patient. Perfect family dog.
Check out Heartland Humane Society too. www.heartlandhumane.org They are great with screening their dogs and would be able to help you find one that would work with your family.
Good Luck!

I would go to a shelter with both kids and let it be a family decision--see who gets along with the dog, who the dog gets along with. I don't have kids (so can't believe I'm on MamaSource), but I have two great dogs--Emily, a beagle-golden retriever mix; and Kip, a border collie/Australian shepherd mix). Both of them love everybody, though I'm not sure if Kip would know not to jump on a little person.

The shelter I used to volunteer at in Illinois required for all family members to be present to spend time with the dog before adoption. I would make sure to get something big enough that the kids can't hurt it (even accidentally). No toy dogs--Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, etc.

If everyone's there, something will click with the right dog.

Good luck,
Shaindel

I just want to comend you for getting a dog that needed a home instead of running out and buying a new one! LOVE IT!
There are sooooo many that need homes in shelters etc, soooo sad. Enjoy.
I have a 15 year old cat, we got our first pup six years ago, and then one two years after that. The cat still hates them because they are giant beasts. She spends most of her time on her bed on the washing machine where her food is or her window perch in the guest room. Good luck with that one.

I fostered a lab once - lost 2 pant sizes in 1 month.

HOWEVER, they have A LOT of energy and the reason I lost so much weight is because I walked that dog 5-6 times a day (we do not have a fenced yard). They can like to chase cats, but you can find ones up for adoption that have been exposed to cats...Other dogs that need a good amount of exercise and WILL keep you busy enough to help you get out there would be other medium to large sized dogs. Some small sized dogs need a good amount of exercise too (jack russel terriers) but not all. I have almost always had Mutts and I am very partial to them.

I have a pug now, not fostered, and I take him potty (OMG - mom talk - LOL) thoughout the day and we have one good 30-60 minute a walk a day (not so much in the cold unfortunately). In the spring I will be kicking that up a notch.

With shelters you are able to meet with the dog and see if s/he is good with your family. Some even have home visits where you can see how well your cat and the dog will get along. Introduce them slowly, like having the dog in a crate and let the cat sniff first. Or put the dog (or cat) in a room and close the door. They can sniff each other w/o the threat of being harmed or getting chased.

I have three cats and the pug. I have always had cats and dogs. You just have to find the right match. Is your cat fixed? Not only does that help with unplanned extra pets it is good to prevent spraying and help with temperment.

Good luck!

Check out petfinder.com for local rescue groups near you. Then see what attracts your interest/ has described matching characteristics/personality, research the breed history and see if the characteristics common in the breed seem ok to you for your home (ie probably not a good idea to get a herding dog with two small children) then set up a time to go and meet these new possibilities if one does not strike you specifically wait and soon one will. :) Take your time in finding a new companion as the right match makes for an easier relationship.
L.

Hi A., when we were looking for a new puupy we came across a redbone coonhound. after researching the breed online and finding out they were good with kids, we bought our Molly. Molly is a red tick/redbone coonhound and she is wonderful with our 3 kids. I have a very active 2 1/2 year old that likes to play with her (and not very gently at all!!) and she let's him sit on her, pull her tail and whatever else he tries to do when I'm not looking!! I also have little girl (who just turned one)and she is always following Molly around and molly just licks her and has never growled at either of the 2 little ones even when they are playing in her food when she is eating (Molly will growl at our other dog when it comes to her food) This breed is short haired and doesn't shed alot and they have the long floppy ears...kinda look like a full size daschhound (sp?) they are of the hound breed so they like to sniff alot, but mostly outside. This breed can be a little difficult to find on the west coast...we drove to california from washington to get ours. They are very sweet dogs and protective of their owners. But as far as your cat is concerned not too sure about that...if you got this kind of dog as a puppy you would probably be o.k. but i would double check that. their instinct is to go
after racoons. Look one up online they are very cute

As others have mentioned, a little research is needed but keep it simple.

Think SIZE
Think type of COAT/HAIR
Think LIFESTYLE (indoor/outdoor/travel with you/time alone)
Then think breed possibilities but keep an open mind and go with your instincts (at the pound?). My sister had an insane lab and I have known some of the sweetest pit bulls and rotweilers....The breed will give you an idea but your interatction with them will be more telling.

Check out petfinder.com on the web if you haven't already. It allows you to search from adoptable animals that are good with cats and children. You can also select the breed you are interested in as well as the age. It may be easier for you not to have to housebreak! We found our blue heeler/beagle mix there (Home at Last in The Dalles) and could not be happier. She is a great family dog, but be prepared for the shedding!

Make sure you introduce the cat and the dog slowly. We didn't know this and one of our cats, who was already a little nutty, stopped eating.

Keep the dog in one room where the cat can HEAR the dog and smell him, but not interact. After a day or two, allow them to see eachother, but not interact. After a day or so of that, let them interact. This is how the vet told us we should have done it.

Dear A.,
Please take time to read " Bones Would Rain from the Sky" Deepening Our Relationships with Dogs By Suzanne Clothier- prior to accquing a dog at all. I am a long time dog owner and feel that this book should be required reading for ANYONE ( EXPERIENCED DOG OWNER OR NOT) considering a new animal of any type.
As for breeds- it's not just breed but the commitment you MUST to make in order to have a great dog. They are like kids.. they don't just happen.. they take work and love..
Shelter dogs are great- if they don't have lots of baggage. My dog- George- is the best dog I have ever owned. We adopted him at 2.5 months- and he is now nearly 7.. He and I are inseparable. I've only had 4 dogs in my 55 years.. 2 prior lived 14 1/2 years... so do the math. This is another family member. They add richness and laughter to your life.. but they add work, walks, cleaning and care. There are more bad owners than bad dogs. Sad to say! good luck.. K.

Good family dogs are Golden Retrievers, Labs, and Boxers. Just do your research online. If the dog is a mix, find out what it is mixed with and look up those breeds. Some breeds are one person owners, some don't get along to well with cats. And some are not good around kids. If you are adopting from the pound, watch its behavior, when you approach him, go to pet him and when the kids are around him.
Your cat well let any dog know he is the boss.

It is wonderful that you adopted an older dog! So many people only want puppies and then when they find that the puppies chew up shoes and leave spots on the floor, or when they grow and are not adorable little puppies any longer, they forget about any commitment they should have made to these loyal, wonderful companions.

I really enjoyed reading April's comments also and completely agree - so many unwanted companions need homes and they are great pets!

I've had all different breeds throughout my life, but for the past 20 years pit bull type dogs have become the dogs of my heart. They are such wonderful family dogs - excellent with children and now that I need service dogs, they are great in that capacity also! They have been unfairly characterized in the media where they have not fully explained what has happened to those few dogs who have been ruined by criminals abusing, torturing, electrocuting and drugging them. The media has not bothered to point out that the majority of this breed, while muscular and strong, are indeed "gentle giants" who, with proper training, are devoted and loyal working dogs and wonderful family dogs.

God bless you for taking in this older dog and just remember to be patient as he learns what you expect of him in your family and he learns how he can trust you for what he needs. I'm sure your entire family will be blessed by this experience and hopefully each of your children will grow to be dedicated "dog people!"

It is really dependent on your lifestyle. No one has every gone wrong with a lab for a family pet, but they do need lots of exercise, a fenced yard, lots of playtime with family members and they shed a lot. A labardoodle (lab crossed with a poodle) is also a good dog they shed very little and have cute curly hair, but they also need lots of exercise. I personally like boston terriers they are quite a bit smaller can live in the house with daily walks. Most dogs will work as long as you teach them discipline at a young age and realize their natural instinicts. The american kennel club website is a good resource to start with, it tells you about each breed, tempermant and what kind of lifestlye they are best suited for. Also each breed has their own website telling about their breed. They are many resuce organizations that will help place dogs to families they are suited for. If you get a puppy find a puppy kintergarden class to attend or ask a local veterinary for a behavior consult. Just remember that you are in charge of your puppy and they need to follow the rules. A lot of pets are euthanized because of poor behavior.
Also a local veterinary or even their staff can let you know what common health problems each breed has. Another important point is when getting a puppy find a reptable breeder that will answer your questions and is not just trying to get rid of their puppies. Do not support puppy mills.

We inherited a cocker spaniel who was 7 at the time. He passed away last year at nearly 16 years old, and really was the best dog. Unfortunately my son was only 6 months old when Chauncey died, but that dog was so sweet and patient with him. Chauncey had also grown up around babies (my nephews) and was great with them, too. One thing to be aware of with Cockers...they tend to have lots of chronic medical stuff. Ears, eyes, skin - all need a lot of vigilant care & cleaning. Chauncey was a lot of work, but worth every second. Enjoy your dog!

we just got a shih tzu puppy and he is great! he doesn't shed, he's happy and ready to play. he does great with my son who began pulling his tail, (yes we tell him not to). He is very active for a shih tzu which we appreciate. He's small enough to take places but big enough that he doesn't get stepped on! :)

We had an american bulldog we got from the pound who was very, very gentle and mild mannered. He was big - 85 pounds- and snored really loud, but he was perfect for children. I have heard that about others who had american bulldogs. He had a lot of joint and health problems though, I don't know if that is breed specific, or just our dog. He died from Cancer this summer. But I would recommend one heartily! Great pet.

Hey A.,
I'll walk with you! We can go between our appointments! I could use to drop a few pounds too...no but I really love our dogs. We have a mutt who had a touch of an attitude w/ my son and at 90 pounds, he learned that was not allowed. And then I have a Saint Bernard...my 2nd one and I love them! They are gentle giants...my son can pull on his anything and he's so calm about it. But they do shed and some drool so that's a big consideration for some. For me, they are the best family dog and love to go out for walks...protective of the children w/ big hearts only a Saint could have :) Best of luck in your search!

A Goldendoodle!! That is a Golden Retriever and poodle mix. They come in large and medium sizes, depending on what size poodle they are breeding with. These dogs are friendly, smart and low to non-shedding. They need to be in an active family setting. These dogs look like live teddy bears and get attention wherever you go. Our Goldendoodle is just over a year old. We have boys ages 4 and 11. The 4 year old is constantly pulling his tail and ears....and otherwise messing with him and the dog deals with it amazingly. He also will stick his hand in the dogs mouth to retrieve a toy and the dog has never, never bit or growled at him. Goldendoodles are the best family dog. They love to play outside, swim and will be your children's best friend for life!! I highly recommend this breed! S.

I was raised with a Cocker Spaniel from the time I was 6 until 16. Scooter was the best dog ever and your children will have wonderful memories of your new doggie in their childhood!! (Scooter did pass away from stomach cancer which can be common in that breed, so something to look out for once the dog is a little older--just be aware and have him checked out regularly.)Great choice in a dog--that is what I'd like to get for my kids someday too!! They are the best, not too big and very good with families!

I brought a 10mo puuppy into our home last year she is now 2. My cats age 18 yrs, 10 yrs, and 6 yrs were not thrilled in the begining. But we showed that we had love for all with time and affection plus treats. My dog an akita/shepard mix now plays with the cats. When they start chasing each other we hang on to the furniture and put them outside. They run and play. So in the end thay are friends. A cocker spaniel is a terrific pet. I had one when I was little and she was around for a long time because we loved her.

Get a Golden Retriever they are sweet kind and very loyal you can get ones that are mixed with poodles which should stop the hip displeasure problems that these dogs can have. They grow to be big dog but the very best especelly with kids and cats. The cat will still rule the roost, thats there nature blessings K

I would definitely go with a "hypo-allergenic" pooch!

There are so many wonderful poodle (not necessarily "lap dogs" or "yappers") mixes out there that do not cause allergic reactions. Watch cats, too, until you are certain your child is not allergic. You can have your child allergy tested to be certain.

After I researched hypo-alergenic dogs, I got my pooches from the Humane Societn. They were "fostered" for a while, so the caregivers had an idea of the personalities and any health problems. This is the way to go, in my opinion, unless you personally know the dog's parents. Also, don't disregard getting an older dog whose foster parents know it is compatible with small children.

I was so allergic to cats and dogs as a child (we did not make the connection until much, much later), my eyes would itch and swell and/or I would get "bronchitis" and asthma and have to take all the standard prescription remedies several times a year to combat the symptoms.

I now have two poodle mixes - one looks like Benji (a Schnoodle) and one lookes like a little dust mop (Yorkiepoo). Both are wonderfully bright, strong, friendly, funny and agile. I never thought I could have a dog inside the house, so I waited years to get one. I'm lovin' it. They are both great travelers and hikers, too. They would rather go on a walk than eat!

My son - now 26 - had asthma from age 18 months to puberty so badly, it was terribly sad and frightening. He missed a lot of school and I missed a lot of work and we were all upset about his suffering and felt helpless to do anything to prevent it. Allergic reactions like this can really rock your world.

When I hear about kids having ear aches and constant runny noses and "bronchitis" and being on antibiotics and antihistimines - and cortisone inhalers - to control what parents think and physicians assume are just "childhood illness" that we can do nothing about, I can't help but wonder if the child is reacting to a house cat or dog at home or at grandma's or elsewhere. Keep in mind, short and smooth-haired dog, even immaculately clean ones, do not mean your child will not react. I know this from experience, even as an adult.

Just sharing my experience, hoping to keep another child from suffering as I and my son did. There ways to keep this from being an issue for your child and family.

A.
We are on our second cocker spaniel and when it is time for another dog..it will be the same. Our first came from a shelter and the second we got a show dog from a breeder. Just didnt decide to show him but he is the all time greatest dog ever. I also have 2 children and while mine are older now 20 and 17....we got this last one 6 yrs ago and I am so glad we got him as a puppy. My 17 yr old thinks he is a lap dog. I have never seen anyone carry a dog around like a baby so much in my life and he, COLBY (the dog) just goes with it. He is so used to HER since she started this when he was a puppy. Most people that first come to our house dont even know we have a dog. He hardly ever barks and just wants to follow you from room to room and be with you. Great choice for kids. Good size and they are such fun dogs. Hope the cat adjusts....ha ha.
~K.

Hi A.,

We have a maltese and she is wonderful with our daughter. They are very small and fun to play with. She gets along great with both our cats and is a doll. I highly reccomend this breed!

Blessings,

K.S.

HI,

It really depends on the amount of time that you have. Some dogs are great with a little bit of attention here and there, Others need a lot.
I have two full breed labs and they are wonderful with kids. We have a son who is 2.5 years old and an 8 month old. our dogs are now 4 and 3 years old. We taught our kids to pet gentle and love them. OUr dogs will lay and let them roll on them, lay they head on them ect. If you have time to be with them, they are great. They love (like most dogs) walks and getting out and about. WE have a mommy group as well and they have been really great when all those kids come over as well. I would say the only thing to think about before getting any dog is the time and maintance they need and deserve. The extra costs that accumulate because of them, and the extra responsablity they are. They are wonderful to have around if that is something you decide that you want. Good luck to you and your family.

I'm so glad to see that you got a Cocker Spaniel. I'm a bit partial. My brothers and I grew up with a Cocker and he was the sweetest dog ever. He was just like yours with our cat, but our cat came 2nd, so there wasn't too much fighting between them. Curly (our cocker) was great with kids and other pets and he made such a great and lasting impression on me. I would like to get another Cocker when we decide to get a pet for our children. Good luck with your new member!

Boxers are always great family dogs! We have had three growing up and now we have one of our own. They are very loyal to their owner and let the kids do anything to them. Very easy going, and all around great dogs! Not to mention adorable!

Hi A.,
I think its great getting a dog but felt the need to share the following.
I own a small referral only cleaning service. One of my clients had a cocker spaniel from a puppy. In the meantime there have been two children added. The dog was like part of the family, that was until she recently attacked the 18 month old little girl. The girl suffered severe bites mainly to her face bit also her arm. Her scars are healing but the dog is no longer with this family.. she was put up for adoption.
Not trying to scare you but please research any animal you get! I am doing the same thing as we speak just because I have kids no longer at home. Just please be careful, its so painful to see the little girl each time I go. She's gonna be okay..but will have a scar as a reminder but things could have been much worse.
Good-luck!

Before getting a dog, please get online and research the temperament of any breed you're considering. We didn't do this before getting our little pug a few years ago, and while she was a great dog (and so darn cute!), she was not right for our family. After we got her we did some research and talked to other pug owners, and found that pugs are notoriously difficult to train and housebreak, and take a LOT of patience and attention. After 3 years and the birth of our son, we finally had to make the difficult decision to find a new home for her. I wish we'd done our research!

Good for you for looking into adoption!

Hi A., I have 2 children 5 & 8 years old we got our cockerspaniel about 15 months ago, she was 9 months old when we got her and she is a great dog. She is very good with the kids, Very loving and spoiled. It was very hard for me to get attached to any dog, we have been through several the years, but Lainey is a keeper. I really think that you will be very satisfied with your new cockerspaniel.

I know I'm a late comer, but I figured I would put my two cents in anyway. I'm glad you found a cocker spaniel. I've never had one, but have heard that they are nice. Let's just hope the cat thinks so. I would recommend a Golden Retriever or a Golden Doodle. We actually breed Mini Golden Doodles and we LOVE them!! They are SOOO adorable! AND like the lady said below, they are low to non-shedding and have GREAT temperaments. They take on the good traits of both dogs. We have a golden and we breed her with a toy poodle. So, our dogs come out to be between 15-30pounds. Our golden is GREAT with our 10 month old son. He loves to crawl all over her and tug on her ears and nose. She doesn't do anything, but maybe get up and walk away when she has had enough. If you want to check out our website to see pictures go to www.boneafideminidoodle.com
I don't know if my husband had a chance to update it yet, but we were expecting a litter and it was a false alarm :( so the next one will be ready to go in November. Happy dog loving!!

Don't get a dog this will just be one more responsability, get a work out partner or two. It sound like the cat is going to shred any poor new animal you bring into the house.

A Cocker Spaniel is a great dog with kids. We had a couple over the years when our kids were small. When our daughter was first born our dog Sherman would sit by her bed when she was sleeping. He was very protective of her. It was so cute. I think that you made a very wise choice. I've had many dogs over my lifetime. We had a collie mix dog once that was wonderful too. Her name was Puppy Chow. My son named her when we got her. We got her from someone giving puppies away at Wal Mart. We had her for about 14 years. She was terrific and very protective of both of the kids. She didn't like our meter man. You could hear him talking to her every time he came around. It was funny. Good luck with your new addition to the family.

Congrats on finding a dog for your family! We had Cockers growing up and they are extremely loving animals and so great with kids. I hope he stays with you for many years . :)

If you need any help with dog training, maybe I can help?

I service Antioch, Lake Villa, Grayslake, Round Lake, Gurnee and a bit farther than that.

I can help your dog integrate into your family and even teach the kids to teach the dogs tricks.

My dogs do a professional Trick show at schools and Libraries so there is lots to choose from.

R.
www.RobinsDogStars.com

I would get a poodle smal, medium or Standard gorgous ,smart they are easy to train ,and will gurad your xchildren I speak from expierence and they don't shed alot they give unconditional love!
Hope thsat helps C.