pooks
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Post by pooks on May 20, 2019 13:07:54 GMT -5
Research the breeder. I wouldn't trust any breeder who does more than one breed (maybe 2) or mixes breeds, but I am picky. I want a breeder who is breeding for the best traits and really investigating the homes the dogs will go to. I got my dog from an AKC registered breeder and it was a great experience.
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grumpyhermit
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Post by grumpyhermit on May 20, 2019 13:10:09 GMT -5
Can the trainer go with you to assess the puppies? If you have a particular task in mind for the puppy (sounds like a possible therapy dog) temperament is going to be more important than which one is the cutest.
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Tiny
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Post by Tiny on May 20, 2019 13:12:42 GMT -5
Wow, didn't mean to open a can of worms here. I was hoping for more comments about the pictures of the puppies as which one ya'll think is the cutest. Yes, I do have specific requirements, 5# or under to begin with. Poodles are very smart, not to certain on the multi-bred. As I said, I have the trainer picked out, and will work as necessary to get the little one trained. The VA frequently has dogs in the hospital and clinics. Many have on a fake "service dog" vests and more than once I've had troubles with dogs wanting to attack other dogs....service animal my foot..... pulling on leashes, bothering other patients, are all traits i won't tolerate, which mean I need to do my job when working with the trainer.
I've never liked big dogs, they are scary to me, so I'd never have one. I also don't want to run the risk getting one from a shelter that is guaranteed to be a little 5# or less that ends up at 10-15#...... Happy little dogs can be a pain, as are dogs that bark and jump on people....again, that just won't work for me. So, if we could get back to my original intent, of the ones pictured which one is the cutest? Sometimes even excellent training can not overcome a dogs temperment/disposition. You will really want to learn more about the lineage of the pup you pick out. You will really want to make your choice in person - as you want to see how the pup behaves with other pups/dogs and people. It might take a couple of visits and spending some time. You need to find the right dog for your "job". I think all the puppies are cute! And I do think you should get a dog.
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steph08
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Post by steph08 on May 20, 2019 13:38:13 GMT -5
Can the trainer go with you to assess the puppies? If you have a particular task in mind for the puppy (sounds like a possible therapy dog) temperament is going to be more important than which one is the cutest.
Even if you don't take the trainer with you, I would definitely go yourself to assess the puppies to determine if they have the personality and temperament for which you're looking. We are getting a new puppy next month and this week, I'm taking the kids to meet all the puppies from that litter to determine which best fits with our family. One that is not only good for our family but also any extracurricular activities we will do with it (hunting, obedience, therapy, etc.).
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Blonde Granny
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Post by Blonde Granny on May 20, 2019 13:51:55 GMT -5
I plan on going to the breeder this week. We had a yorkie for many years but haven't had a pet in the last 20+ years. Our yorkie was borderline crazy, but just as funny as she could be. But for the most part, easy to train and house break, traveled in the car with ease. However the joy of her life was hearing a jet ski off in the distance at the marina....that required instantly getting on the swim platform and awaiting the arrive of said jet ski. No one ever disappointed her and they both enjoyed their ride out in the lake. She hated the life vest though and easily chewed through everyone of them.
btw: her name was Chelsie
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Wisconsin Beth
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Post by Wisconsin Beth on May 20, 2019 14:02:19 GMT -5
I plan on going to the breeder this week. We had a yorkie for many years but haven't had a pet in the last 20+ years. Our yorkie was borderline crazy, but just as funny as she could be. But for the most part, easy to train and house break, traveled in the car with ease. However the joy of her life was hearing a jet ski off in the distance at the marina....that required instantly getting on the swim platform and awaiting the arrive of said jet ski. No one ever disappointed her and they both enjoyed their ride out in the lake. She hated the life vest though and easily chewed through everyone of them. btw: her name was Chelsie I'm now picturing her having animated conversations with the assorted Lake Monsters (Nessie, Champ, etc) that live in the lakes near you!
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 20, 2019 14:07:20 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
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swamp
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Post by swamp on May 20, 2019 14:12:29 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
yeah, mine's 15.
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TheOtherMe
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Post by TheOtherMe on May 20, 2019 14:36:44 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
Lucy is 10 pounds
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weltschmerz
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Post by weltschmerz on May 20, 2019 14:45:23 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
Sushi weighs 20 pounds.
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resolution
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Post by resolution on May 20, 2019 14:57:32 GMT -5
Mine is 12 pounds. I keep hoping he will slow down a bit as he gets older, but he's 2 now and still acting like a kitten.
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weltschmerz
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Post by weltschmerz on May 20, 2019 14:58:57 GMT -5
No, he's not morbidly obese..... Tonkinese are commonly trim and muscular cats. They are typically heavier than they appear to be, due to their very muscular bodies.[1] They have a distinctive oval-shaped paw, and a modified wedge-shaped head, with large ears set towards the outside of their head. They are unusually intelligent, curious, affectionate with people, and interested in them. Tonks are playful cats, but not hyperactive, although they can be mischievous if they become lonesome or bored. Some interesting toys and a cat tree, or, better yet, another Asian cat such as a Tonkinese, Oriental, Burmese, Siamese, or Snowshoe will keep them occupied when you're not around. Unlike most breeds of cat, they are reported to sometimes engage in fetching, and they can often be found perched on the highest object in the house. Do not be alarmed if your Tonkinese suddenly jumps on your shoulders, as the breed is known for its love of heights. Tonkinese cats weigh 10-20 lbs or even more.cats.fandom.com/wiki/TonkineseHe could eat a Yorkie for breakfast.
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chiver78
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Post by chiver78 on May 20, 2019 15:06:06 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
my sister's first rescue cat hit 27lbs at his highest.
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Lizard Queen
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Post by Lizard Queen on May 20, 2019 15:13:42 GMT -5
Wow, didn't mean to open a can of worms here. I was hoping for more comments about the pictures of the puppies as which one ya'll think is the cutest. Yes, I do have specific requirements, 5# or under to begin with. Poodles are very smart, not to certain on the multi-bred. As I said, I have the trainer picked out, and will work as necessary to get the little one trained. The VA frequently has dogs in the hospital and clinics. Many have on a fake "service dog" vests and more than once I've had troubles with dogs wanting to attack other dogs....service animal my foot..... pulling on leashes, bothering other patients, are all traits i won't tolerate, which mean I need to do my job when working with the trainer. I've never liked big dogs, they are scary to me, so I'd never have one. I also don't want to run the risk getting one from a shelter that is guaranteed to be a little 5# or less that ends up at 10-15#...... Happy little dogs can be a pain, as are dogs that bark and jump on people....again, that just won't work for me. So, if we could get back to my original intent, of the ones pictured which one is the cutest? I like the one with the purple bow, then the 2 with the back bows with white polka dots. You really have to meet then, though, to decide. I saw a program on tv once that said to hold them on their back in the palm of your hand. The less squirting they do, the more chill they will be for you.
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alabamagal
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Post by alabamagal on May 20, 2019 15:14:19 GMT -5
Today is National Rescue dog day! Just saying! I have 2 rescues. The one we got at 6 weeks is the sweetest thing, even though definitely some bulldog in her. When we go to dog park she ignores other dogs and goes up to other people for petting. Picture of her on adoption day 6 years ago is attached. She is now 55 lbs. The other one was adopted at 6 months and is more of a dog’s dog, but still very sweet. You do have to do what is best for you. My son and DIL wanted a small dog, but had a hard time finding at rescues so got one from a breeder
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weltschmerz
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Post by weltschmerz on May 20, 2019 15:20:03 GMT -5
All the puppies are cute! I can't pick one.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 20, 2019 15:23:10 GMT -5
Wow, didn't mean to open a can of worms here. I was hoping for more comments about the pictures of the puppies as which one ya'll think is the cutest. Oh, I thought you were asking if you should get a dog period, not which one. They're all cute, but I wouldn't pick one by looks. Go visit the litter and let them pick you.
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happyhoix
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Post by happyhoix on May 20, 2019 15:31:58 GMT -5
If I was wanting a dog with a specific personality I'd get a full grown dog, not a puppy.
Puppies and kittens are always cute, playful, and charming. Usually the difficult traits don't show up until later.
I'm fostering a flame point Siamese that someone dumped near our house at about 6 months of age. He became partly feral before I started feeding him. I let him into the house at night and I'm getting ready to have him neutered in the hopes of finding him a home. But I can tell why he was probably dumped - he's a very manly male and nips affectionately. He doesn't draw blood but it does hurt a bit. I'm guessing his original family had kids, and he played too rough with them, so they got rid of him, which was a shitty thing to do. He's a beautiful cat, gets along well with my other cats, and can be extremely affectionate - I'm hoping once he's been neutered and grows up a bit more he'll be a bit less bossy pants and I can find a good (no young kids) household for him on the Siamese rescue website. But if his original family had gotten an adult instead of a kitten, they might have picked a cat that was more suitable for a household with small kids.
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violagirl
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Post by violagirl on May 20, 2019 16:03:49 GMT -5
From experience, I know one of the most important traits to look at is fearfulness in the parents. If either of the parents, but particularly the mother, is fearful there is an increased likelihood the puppy will also have those traits. Cowering, submissive peeing, or barking and growling in the parents would be a good reason to not get any of their puppies. Not saying a puppy from a fearful parent will necessarily be reactive and fearful, but there is a genetic disposition there.
From experience, dealing with three reactive dogs - this was one of the biggest things I wish I had known. My dogs were socialized, went to puppy classes, were around other dogs but once they reached around 7-9 months old became increasingly reactive especially to other dogs.
Terriers are already high alert dogs but mine just ratchet it up 100x.
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Tennesseer
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Post by Tennesseer on May 20, 2019 16:28:45 GMT -5
What is the purpose of the dog and how does it relate to VA? What is the connection? Is the dog supposed to be a comfort dog?
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taz157
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Post by taz157 on May 20, 2019 17:02:45 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. My cats are 11 and 12 pounds.
My cat is 10 pounds. My previous cats were about 10-12 pounds.
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andi9899
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Post by andi9899 on May 20, 2019 17:44:05 GMT -5
I'm sorry, but a 5 pound dog isn't a dog. It's a cog. Or a dat. Right! Bear weighs 55 pounds and I don't consider him a big dog. Now Jackson, that's a big dog.
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oped
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Post by oped on May 20, 2019 17:45:04 GMT -5
Max is like 95 right now... he’s getting hefty in his old age...
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Blonde Granny
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Post by Blonde Granny on May 20, 2019 18:41:37 GMT -5
What is the purpose of the dog and how does it relate to VA? What is the connection? Is the dog supposed to be a comfort dog? I am a volunteer at the VA 2Xs per week. My plan was to be able to take the puppy to work with me and keep the little kennel under my desk, with frequent trips outside and time sitting on my lap. I have now changed my mind and decided my best option is to do nothing. My schedules are erratic, trips out of town with 3 other ladies frequently, and having a puppy/dog is not in my best interest....or the puppy for that matter. These past 3.5 years since DH passed away is the first time in my life I am responsible for no one but me, and frankly I like that way.Thanks everyone for your thoughts and for making this an interesting topic.
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weltschmerz
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Post by weltschmerz on May 20, 2019 19:12:00 GMT -5
If I was wanting a dog with a specific personality I'd get a full grown dog, not a puppy.
Puppies and kittens are always cute, playful, and charming. Usually the difficult traits don't show up until later.
I'm fostering a flame point Siamese that someone dumped near our house at about 6 months of age. He became partly feral before I started feeding him. I let him into the house at night and I'm getting ready to have him neutered in the hopes of finding him a home. But I can tell why he was probably dumped - he's a very manly male and nips affectionately. He doesn't draw blood but it does hurt a bit. I'm guessing his original family had kids, and he played too rough with them, so they got rid of him, which was a shitty thing to do. He's a beautiful cat, gets along well with my other cats, and can be extremely affectionate - I'm hoping once he's been neutered and grows up a bit more he'll be a bit less bossy pants and I can find a good (no young kids) household for him on the Siamese rescue website. But if his original family had gotten an adult instead of a kitten, they might have picked a cat that was more suitable for a household with small kids. Why don't you keep him? Siamese are so much fun!
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Wisconsin Beth
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Post by Wisconsin Beth on May 21, 2019 7:51:20 GMT -5
What is the purpose of the dog and how does it relate to VA? What is the connection? Is the dog supposed to be a comfort dog? I am a volunteer at the VA 2Xs per week. My plan was to be able to take the puppy to work with me and keep the little kennel under my desk, with frequent trips outside and time sitting on my lap. I have now changed my mind and decided my best option is to do nothing. My schedules are erratic, trips out of town with 3 other ladies frequently, and having a puppy/dog is not in my best interest....or the puppy for that matter. These past 3.5 years since DH passed away is the first time in my life I am responsible for no one but me, and frankly I like that way.Thanks everyone for your thoughts and for making this an interesting topic. As a pet lover, I want to thank you for thinking about time and schedules and what's best for both you and the dog before you got him/her. We're currently petless after losing our cat last month. We're staying pet less until after the summer traveling is done.
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hoops902
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Post by hoops902 on May 21, 2019 15:34:25 GMT -5
I'll bring up a point that nobody has really mentioned yet. But...I would NOT trust any breeder who puts little bows on a male dog head. That is not ok. Otherwise I think the upper left and lower right are the best-looking puppies.
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weltschmerz
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Post by weltschmerz on May 21, 2019 15:44:01 GMT -5
I'll bring up a point that nobody has really mentioned yet. But...I would NOT trust any breeder who puts little bows on a male dog head. That is not ok. Otherwise I think the upper left and lower right are the best-looking puppies. Why not?
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tskeeter
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Post by tskeeter on May 23, 2019 23:44:51 GMT -5
The breeder is local, so that price listed is not what I would pay. I've already talked to one of our local dog trainers, since this little puppy will come to work with me at the VA. So, manners are critical and excellent training is a must. I don't believe one from a shelter would be my best option. We got two shelter dogs. Based on our experience, shelter dogs aren’t a more cost effective way to acquire a dog. The initial cost might be lower, but many shelter dogs have health issues. The first couple of years of vet bills can offset any savings on acquisition cost. Manners aren’t necessarily a problem with shelter dogs. Despite having trained dogs before, we opted to get professional training for our shelter dogs. I felt a pro could do a better job than I could, and in much less time. The training was very successful. And the dogs loved to go to “camp” at the trainers, when we went out of town. They just seemed to adore the folks who did their training. One of our shelter dogs ended up as a certified therapy dog, visiting nursing homes and care facilities, including memory care units.
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andi9899
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Post by andi9899 on May 24, 2019 5:24:57 GMT -5
I've owned 4 shelter dogs and have never had any health issues. The only one that had any health problems at all was my GSD who had hip problems which is quite common in big dogs regardless of where they came from. She also lost some hearing and had some continence problems, but she was 13 years old which is pretty old for a big dog. I wouldn't say that shelter dogs have any more or less health issues than others. More than anything specific breeds have different health issues.
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