Puppy for Christmas?

[Laszlo]

My dear son who is 8 years old wants a puppy for Christmas. We’ve decided we’d like to add a member to the family and move forward but cannot decide on what type of breed. My wife prefers a small hypoallergenic breed so that leaves us with some challenges. Really could use some help and advice on these breeds. Even so some may not be truly hypoallergenic. We’ve narrowed it down to these four beautiful dogs and the Schnauzer is what we are leaning towards the most.

[swatty]

We have a Schnoodle, Schnauzer/ Poodle cross. Very clean and fun dog. She looks like a Schnauzer and jumps around like a poodle at times . What ever to decide make sure you find a good breader

[Old Expat Beast]

It's hard to find a brighter, more loyal and fun-loving dog than the Jack Russell Terrier.

[BrazenC5]

What about going to the local shelter and the family finding one you all like?

Imagine how special that would be for everyone (including the dog) for Christmas.

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[Laszlo]

Thanks, Peter. The Schnauzer definitely has the characteristics and energy we're looking for - my only concern is that if not trained really well, will they go completely destructive when we're not around.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

It's hard to find a brighter, more loyal and fun-loving dog than the Jack Russell Terrier.

Adam, one of my favorite films of all times was Crimson Tide and Gene Hackman's Jack Russell Terroir who was not only brilliant in the film but noted to be the most intelligent and loyal dog breed in the world. Definitely a consideration. Thank you.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by BrazenC5

What about going to the local shelter and the family finding one you all like?

Imagine how special that would be for everyone (including the dog) for Christmas.

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We gave this a lot of thought actually but growing up with a dad who'd typically do this we had some real doozers who'd rip the crap out of the couch and other furniture around the house and I honestly I have had bad dreams about it.

And trust me, I want to make the world a better place.

[swatty]

Originally Posted by Laszlo

Thanks, Peter. The Schnauzer definitely has the characteristics and energy we're looking for - my only concern is that if not trained really well, will they go completely destructive when we're not around.

Make sure you get plenty of toys for the dog, then the won’t eat the furniture.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by swatty

Make sure you get plenty of toys for the dog, then the won’t eat the furniture.

I read that if you don't give them enough to do, or exercise them enough, or train them well enough, they can truly become destructive beyond comprehension. lol

My dad once brought home an Afghan Hound when I was about 8 years old and it ate everything you could imagine... one day we came home and the house was completely destroyed and when the dog ran out the front door all this pillow stuffing was stuck to its coat. I never saw that dog again after that day.

[Rock]

The Schnauzer is a breed I have always liked. They seem to have a good temperament and an interesting character. Look great when clipped to style.
I never bought a dog as I was worried that my kids would lose interest and the animal would end up bored and lonely like so many dogs I pass on my walk each morning.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by Rock

The Schnauzer is a breed I have always liked. They seem to have a good temperament and an interesting character. Look great when clipped to style.
I never bought a dog as I was worried that my kids would lose interest and the animal would end up bored and lonely like so many dogs I pass on my walk each morning.

That's so sad, Rocky. :-(

I'm drinking a nice port tonight.

[Rock]

Way to go Laszlo. I have just had a couple of Ports myself to finish off the weekend. Fortified wine is one of my big pleasures in life.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by Rock

Way to go Laszlo. I have just had a couple of Ports myself to finish off the weekend. Fortified wine is one of my big pleasures in life.

You have great tastes my friend.

[hsm]

if I was to choose a dog, it would be a german shephard bitch,

I decided a long time ago, not to have a dog, its lovely and all that, but too much of a responsibility,

I have an old rabbit, the mess and destruction that this silly old thing causes is incredible, its an incredibly fun animal, but restrictive,

it cant look after itself, holidays have to be catered for and these little things require a hell of a lot of space and care to keep them happy,

A dog would be 5 times this, so its not for me, but I wish you well.

[Laszlo]

Hahah, thanks for sharing hsm.

We have thought this through and understand it's a responsibility. But so was our first born.

[hsm]

Originally Posted by Laszlo

Hahah, thanks for sharing hsm.

We have thought this through and understand it's a responsibility. But so was our first born.

good man, I like people who think it out first, too many dog owners around my neck of the woods who shouldn't have got one.

[MonBK]

I'd go with post #4 which I've done twice except I picked them off the street.

The best 18.6 and 15.5 years I've had with those two dogs.

[Laszlo]

Originally Posted by MonBK

I'd go with post #4 which I've done twice except I picked them off the street.

The best 18.6 and 15.5 years I've had with those two dogs.

That's amazing, Mon.

Thank you for sharing.

[superdog]

I have a lot to say, but I’ll try and be brief.

I’ve had dogs from the pound, the street a breeder and the store. I have found that most dogs adjust to the way their family treats them. Sure, different breeds will have different “traits” but a lot of their personality comes from their environment.

It is unfortunate, but often times pound dogs can come with a lot of baggage or even illness. It’s great when it works out, but it’s horrible when it doesn’t.

The dog in my pic is schnauzer (breeder). His ears were not cut, which I prefer. Mine passed, but I have 4 friends in my life that currently have schnauzers because they fell in love with him. He was an incredible dog and a great friend.

A schnauzer will act like a tough dog but give you all the benefits of a small dog. They are bred to hunt vermin, so they are very athletic. They also tend to bark. A lot. Small dogs though are so much easier to care for, it’s not even fair to compare.

We currently have a chihuahua mix (from the pound). He’s a sweetheart but can definitely be a douche bag too.

We also have a cockapoo (from a store). She is hypoallergenic (mostly) and is an amazing dog. When she looks at you, with her giant brown eyes, you can see she is thinking. No shedding at all. Very affectionate. But also very hyper and needs a ton of attention.

I think out of all the dogs that needed saving, she needed it the most. Store dogs are just a commodity and are often times treated the worst. The store owners I bought her from were scumbags and got arrested and shut down for animal abuse two weeks after I got her.

So here’s the thing. All dogs need a lot of attention. Their greatest joy is to be loved by a human. They are a lot of work, but it’s worth it. They bring a ton of joy

I’m allergic to dogs. I kid you not, I wash my hands literally every time I touch a dog. Even a hypoallergenic dog. So I wash my hands a LOT. But I would not live without a dog in my life.

In every way, you get what you give. If you put in a lot of effort and love, you will get that back. If you don’t, it will be bad for everyone.

I think I know you well enough, and you are going to provide some lucky dog with a great home and life. I’m excited for you.

I’m no trainer and no expert, but I’ve been around dogs my entire life. I nearly made it my career while in college (long story). If I can ever help with advise, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

[superdog]

Just to add, while a sophomore in college I was walking my roommate Rottweiler. I came across a woman that was literally crying as she had to bring her lab/shepherd pup to the pound.

I went home with two dogs. That dog taught me responsibility and how to be a man. It taught me to care for someone else and it taught me to put other beings before myself.

He was eventually 110 lbs. He was incredibly smart and very loving. He never forgot someone he previously met. Didn’t need a leash while walking with me in Boston and could tell the difference between a ball, a stick, a frisbee etc. it was freaky how smart he was.

He lived and died to play fetch.

He also had the capability to be extremely aggressive. Going to dog parks, I broke up more fights than I care to remember. But he bailed me out of a few rough times and I did the same for him.

Imho, best thing you can do for a kid is get him a dog to care for.

I can’t wait for pics.

[DLRIDES]

As a dog lover, just a little something to ponder :

“for every dog you buy, a precious homeless pound puppy gets put to death”

Buy a dog and kill another ....................... choices

[superdog]

Originally Posted by DLRIDES

As a dog lover, just a little something to ponder :

“for every dog you buy, a precious homeless pound puppy gets put to death”

Buy a dog and kill another ....................... choices

Very black and white. And not true.

Tons and tons of no kill shelters. Getting a dog from a shelter does not necessarily have any effect at all, on the dogs that are put down.

Sadly, it’s typicaly the old and sick or dogs that can’t associate based on past abuse that get put down.

[austinp]

Mini Golden Doodle. Best non shedding family dog ever. Here's my 2 pals.

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[dysondiver]

we usually have turkey ,,,, but i guess a puppy would be a change...






messing aside , ive a cocker , not a dog that suits every one but i love mine ,, do lots of research , and read lots.
They are a big undertaking , but very rewarding , as said above , so much of their character comes from how they are treated , but its a very rewarding experience.
Look forwards to the pics.

[FTX I]

Nice choice buddy. Dog lover here too but I can't help much. I only had german shepherds and loved them a lot but big dogs need space - grandfather had a big property and they had plenty of room to live. Having said that the only thing I can add is this contract. Really funny. Anyway, Jack Russell Terrier got my vote.

[GB-man]

Originally Posted by DLRIDES

As a dog lover, just a little something to ponder :

“for every dog you buy, a precious homeless pound puppy gets put to death”

Buy a dog and kill another ....................... choices

What a ridiculous statement.


I would get the schnauzer. Always thought they looked sharp

We have a boxer and I’m convinced there is no better dog! Will probably add another at some point.

[Dr. Robert]

I have allergies to dander, the Portuguese Water Dog has a hair like coat rather than fur, no problem for me. The PWD is a working breed, used to being around people, they are a wonderful breed, smart & very affectionate.
I vote for the PWD!

[OmegaJJH]

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

It's hard to find a brighter, more loyal and fun-loving dog than the Jack Russell Terrier.

Spot on Adam as usual.

I had one for 14 years. The perfect dog!

[Wesley Crusher]

Of the four that you mentioned, the Jack Russel would be my choice, but my favorite dogs are dachshunds. They're incredibly smart, tenacious and VERY STUBBORN. They have such great personalities.

[TK-710]

Originally Posted by GB-man

What a ridiculous statement.


I would get the schnauzer.

Sorry I had to edit your quote. You were on a roll until you mentioned boxer

I currently have a Giant Schnauzer. He is our second one. Absolutely love the breed and I will never be without one. They are great family pets. Although there is about 80lbs that separate the miniature from the giant physically I’m pretty sure the minis have a few pounds more personality.

Hypoallergenic is extremely important in my family and these dogs are awesome for that.

Tragically since I bought both of mine from a breeder I am appreantly responisible for the death of two sheleter dogs. Not the owners who turned them over to the shelter but me for not adopting them. I guess mine simply never would have been born if I had never brought them home at five months old.