Buying a Dog

[barber2006]

So I've never bought a dog before. Back when I was a kid you waited until someone on your block had a dog with puppies and they were glad to give you one. However, now that I'm old and married, apparently you can't do that anymore. So we are looking at buying a fancy dog.

Since I only had mutts growing up I'm totally lost. So for anyone who has experience buying a bred dog, help me out if you can.


1) How do I avoid getting ripped off? I suppose dogs you pay several hundred dollars for come with papers and such. What should I be looking for? Is there some sort of online database to avoid forged papers, etc?

2) What's a good small dog? The wife wants an inside dog and it needs to be good with children. No shedding. No biting. Etc.

3) Is there an advantage to getting a male or female? Or do they behave pretty much the same assuming I get them fixed?

4) What are the yearly costs? Someone said about 200 bucks a year for flea/heartworm meds and thats it other than food. That seems way low.

[Linliel]

Firstly what I'd do is research the type of dog I'd like to get. If you don't want a shedder, perhaps something like a short-haired jack russell? A Cavalier King Charles? My family has had a JR for 15 years and she's been fantastic. She's extremely lively, and great with kids, but every dog needs training. Absolutely, no questions asked. Sign up for puppy school and teach them good habits right off the bat.

After you've decided, then go hang out on some forums for that breed for people who really like their dogs. Get some breeder recommendations from them.

There's not really any difference between male/female if you get them fixed. Get them fixed. Absolutely.

Not really sure how much it is to keep a dog since it's been a while since I had one, and then it was a family dog that I didn't have to buy food for You'll probably find out a bit more on the dog forum you find.

Good luck!

[deiopea]

Rescue a dog. They usually already have their vaccinations, spayed/neutered. All you need is heart worm meds(~$25/6mo) and and flea/tick pervention(~$50/6mon). As cute as they are, don't buy pets from stores.

And: http://www.gopetsamerica.com/dogs/miniature-dogs.aspx

[Conrad]

If you're buying a purebreed isn't it discouraged to get them fixed because of their bloodline? Purebreds are usually used for further breeding.

Friend of mine does the dog show circuit with her great danes, she's told me it's something like $2k or pick of the litter to bring a female to be impregnated by a stud. Would make me think males go for more than females, though since this is secondhand I'm not sure how accurate this is.

[tyven]

yo get a fucking pitbull and use a chain instead of a leash and pose in rap videos

[Linliel]

If you're buying a purebreed isn't it discouraged to get them fixed because of their bloodline? Purebreds are usually used for further breeding.

Nonononononono. Only real breeders should keep their dogs unfixed. Usually they will keep more than enough breeding stock, and sell the particularly good breeding stock to other breeders. Unless you're a serious breeder (not a "backyard breeder" too, but one with serious aspirations for show and breeding things, and *not* just selling the offspring off), absolutely, definitely get your dog fixed.

[MF Perm tha Fineass]

Rescue a dog. They usually already have their vaccinations, spayed/neutered. All you need is heart worm meds(~$25/6mo) and and flea/tick pervention(~$50/6mon). As cute as they are, don't buy pets from stores.

And: http://www.gopetsamerica.com/dogs/miniature-dogs.aspx

this. don't ever buy from pet stores these places need to be shut the fuck down. you can find really awesome dogs at rescue centers that have all their shots and are spayed / neutered already so you have nothing to worry about right from the get-go.

We got this little cutie from a rescue shelter, she's a cheagle ( beagle / chihuahua mix ). She was left abandoned at 4 months and was found roaming the streets looking for food

http://gallery.me.com/stephenpenders...12409833490001

http://gallery.me.com/stephenpenders...12409833310001

[isladar]

S
2) What's a good small dog? The wife wants an inside dog and it needs to be good with children. No shedding. No biting. Etc.

Get a pug. My grandmother bred them, and they're MADE for being inside. No long walks, no nonsense. They're perfect with young children, and other animals, including cats. Laid-back, sweet-tempered, NO DOGGY SMELL. And they make snorfles :3

As far as not getting ripped off: read up on AKC standards for whatever breed you do settle on (get a pug or I ban you), and never ever buy 'online'. Never buy from a 'breeder' if you can't meet the bitch and the sire of the puppies. Papers are pieces of paper. Papers can be fudged, as you've mentioned, but you cannot fake breeding. Learn what it is that constitutes a healthy, good example of the breed, and look at the parents.

Also. Make sure you are buying an animal that is going to match your lifestyle / time commitment / plans for the future. Buying a labrador puppy when you live in a small apartment is great for the first year and a half, and then you have an animal that needs to be run. A lot. Same for a lot of larger breeds (get a pug). The rambunctious little guy can turn into a rambunctious, 80 lb. guy, and that's a whole 'nother mess. Owning an animal should never be an accessory or a status statement, it is a living thing. You want to be happy, so get an animal that will make you happy while being happy and fulfilled itself.

However, if you can convince your wife that a pure-bred isn't necessary (and it isn't, but you should really get a pug), please consider getting a mutt from a no-kill shelter. I know everyone always wants a puppy, but puppies are only puppies for a few months, you will have a dog for years. No one adopts older animals, and it breaks my heart.

[*Shinzon*]

Nonononononono. Only real breeders should keep their dogs unfixed. Usually they will keep more than enough breeding stock, and sell the particularly good breeding stock to other breeders. Unless you're a serious breeder (not a "backyard breeder" too, but one with serious aspirations for show and breeding things, and *not* just selling the offspring off), absolutely, definitely get your dog fixed.

Getting an animal fixed, more often than not, changes their temperament. I have a purebred pug and we've never seriously considered fixing him because he has tons of energy and is extremely friendly despite being over 9 years old. When you get a dog fixed sometimes, especially males, they become lazy and lack energy and may not stay friendly or maintain their temperament. As an owner that is something you consider. The only real reason to ever have a dog fixed is if you keep your dog outside almost year around and it runs the risk of running away. Otherwise it makes no difference whether or not you fix them.

[volcanicweather]

Rescue a dog. They usually already have their vaccinations, spayed/neutered. All you need is heart worm meds(~$25/6mo) and and flea/tick pervention(~$50/6mon). As cute as they are, don't buy pets from stores.

And: http://www.gopetsamerica.com/dogs/miniature-dogs.aspx

This x1000

You can find a great dog with a fully developed personality who matches your lifestyle that is in need of a home. There are lots of great dogs who people have had to give up or leave behind recently because of the economy. You will NEVER know if a dog is a biter / destroyer / hates kids if you get a puppy as each dog has a different personality regardless of breed. Sure puppies are cute for about a year but I've known so many people lately who went down this road and have really regretted it... have fun coming home to check on your puppy multiple times per day to make sure he hasn't destroyed stuff or stunk up your whole house by defecating in his cage whereas an adult dog can last most of the day home alone and is happy just to have a nice quiet place to sleep during the day.

Also if you're concerned about yearly costs I would re-think getting a dog until you can fully afford it. They're like having children and can cost you thousands of dollars if severe health issues arise.

Bottom line, if you're looking for a dog with a specific personality (which you seem to be) then the shelter is really a better option than a puppy for you

[Chun Liroy]

Firstly what I'd do is research the type of dog I'd like to get. If you don't want a shedder, perhaps something like a short-haired jack russell? A Cavalier King Charles? My family has had a JR for 15 years and she's been fantastic. She's extremely lively, and great with kids, but every dog needs training. Absolutely, no questions asked. Sign up for puppy school and teach them good habits right off the bat.

After you've decided, then go hang out on some forums for that breed for people who really like their dogs. Get some breeder recommendations from them.

There's not really any difference between male/female if you get them fixed. Get them fixed. Absolutely.

Not really sure how much it is to keep a dog since it's been a while since I had one, and then it was a family dog that I didn't have to buy food for You'll probably find out a bit more on the dog forum you find.

Good luck!

I just wanted to add that how dogs behave all depends on their upbringing as far as being child-capatible imo. Sure there are different temperaments but it's really largely to due with how you raise them. I mean I'd hate to use this as an example, but since it's a largely believe stereotype, my brother's pitbull is the nicest thing and never ever touches the kids, but plays with them all the time, and she's fine around my sister's newborn (like 4 mo. old now).

[Conrad]

Pugs have tons of health problems though, mostly related to breathing difficulties cause by the shape of their faces. My grandmother had three pugs and spent more on their medications and upkeep than she did on her own. Also, they all smelled horrible and shed everywhere. Maybe she got unlucky though, the pugs she had were all in the same family.

[Chun Liroy]

Get a pug. My grandmother bred them, and they're MADE for being inside. No long walks, no nonsense. They're perfect with young children, and other animals, including cats. Laid-back, sweet-tempered, NO DOGGY SMELL. And they make snorfles :3

As far as not getting ripped off: read up on AKC standards for whatever breed you do settle on (get a pug or I ban you), and never ever buy 'online'. Never buy from a 'breeder' if you can't meet the bitch and the sire of the puppies. Papers are pieces of paper. Papers can be fudged, as you've mentioned, but you cannot fake breeding. Learn what it is that constitutes a healthy, good example of the breed, and look at the parents.

Also. Make sure you are buying an animal that is going to match your lifestyle / time commitment / plans for the future. Buying a labrador puppy when you live in a small apartment is great for the first year and a half, and then you have an animal that needs to be run. A lot. Same for a lot of larger breeds (get a pug). The rambunctious little guy can turn into a rambunctious, 80 lb. guy, and that's a whole 'nother mess. Owning an animal should never be an accessory or a status statement, it is a living thing. You want to be happy, so get an animal that will make you happy while being happy and fulfilled itself.

However, if you can convince your wife that a pure-bred isn't necessary (and it isn't, but you should really get a pug), please consider getting a mutt from a no-kill shelter. I know everyone always wants a puppy, but puppies are only puppies for a few months, you will have a dog for years. No one adopts older animals, and it breaks my heart.

Puggles are fucking awesome looking. Never ever ever ever get a Jug though (jack russel/pug) jesus christ my sister's dog is crazy.

Edit: thought I'd like to add that mutts are much more healthy than pure breds as well.

[isladar]

Otherwise it makes no difference whether or not you fix them.

That is an immensely short-sighted and ignorant statement, dear. Animals get lazy and boring if they aren't interacted with, exercised, or cared for. As stated, if you are not a dedicated, Westminster-level breeder, get your animal fixed.

A lot of those dogs in rescue and shelters? Someone thought fixing didn't make a difference.

[*Shinzon*]

Pugs have tons of health problems though, mostly related to breathing difficulties cause by the shape of their faces. My grandmother had three pugs and spent more on their medications and upkeep than she did on her own. Also, they all smelled horrible and shed everywhere. Maybe she got unlucky though, the pugs she had were all in the same family.

It's all about their breeding and how you care for them. My pug has never ever, had any kind of problem. The only problem he's beginning to have is with his hip, at 9 years old, and he only has trouble breathing when it's very hot or he gets too excited and tires himself out. As for the smell, I dunno about all that noise. I give my dog a bath about once a month, maybe twice and that's all he needs. He does shed like fucking crazy though.

[Chun Liroy]

That is an immensely short-sighted and ignorant statement, dear. Animals get lazy and boring if they aren't interacted with, exercised, or cared for. As stated, if you are not a dedicated, Westminster-level breeder, get your animal fixed.

A lot of those dogs in rescue and shelters? Someone thought fixing didn't make a difference.

Not to mention tumors. We recently (couple weeks ago) spent $4k on our 14 yo dog (my mom is a softy...) for surgery for vagina tumors pretty much, which could have been prevented if she were fixed, according to the vets and numerous websites. Not sure if it's the same for males but definitely get a female fixed. We've had fixed and non-fixed dogs didn't notice much in their temperament, though I do know that males tend to get lazy when they are fixed--at least for a little while after the surgery.

[blindSharingan]

1) You want the dog to be AKC certified if you're buying it from a breeder. I don't remember any specific sites to review breeders but I just googled the ons I was considering purchasing from and I was able to find a few reviews from that.

2) I have two Pugs, one boy one girl. The are fairly differing in temperaments. One is rambunctious and the other is fairly mellow. They are both very loving, playful, and friendly dogs. They have a few conditions that need consideration (their eyes, wrinkles, smushed faces). Regardless of what you get I HIGHLY recommend you research the breed to be aware of any conditions they could have and any special attention that needs to be payed.

3) If they are fixed they are about the same. Males can still get the urge to hump (more as a sign of dominace) and will still get erections regardless whether they are nudered or not.

4) The costs really vary based on how lucky you are on their health conditions and how diligent you how to get them checked out. My first dog had relatively no serious health problems and only needed regular shots/checks up. My second however has had a couple issues requiring surgery (About $2,000 for that). Food depending on brand can be 30-50 a bag but for my dogs a bag last about a month or two. Vet visits can vary, yearly shots can be about $200+.

[isladar]

Pugs have tons of health problems though, mostly related to breathing difficulties cause by the shape of their faces. My grandmother had three pugs and spent more on their medications and upkeep than she did on her own. Also, they all smelled horrible and shed everywhere. Maybe she got unlucky though, the pugs she had were all in the same family.

This comes from poor breeding practices, not a fault in the breed. We could talk about German Shepard's hip issues; this will come out from bad breeders, not the animal.

Pugs WILL snore, and they're awesome for that, but the breed is at least 2500 years old in its current form (they believe from China, it may have been used to guard Tibetan temples!), so this is not some new discovery that suddenly makes a poor breed. Do research! This goes for -any- pure breed you are looking at. Anything that can be a potential health issue should be questioned. Your breeder should be more concerned about health problems than you would ever be.

Oh! And as for things like puggles, cookapoos, or any of the other godawful designer breeds that are popular right now: You will be paying the same amount FOR A MUTT as you would for a pure breed, with absolutely NO history on health or personality issues. Avoid these like the plague.

[isladar]

IMy pug has never ever, had any kind of problem.

Post picts post picts post picts :3

[*Shinzon*]

That is an immensely short-sighted and ignorant statement, dear. Animals get lazy and boring if they aren't interacted with, exercised, or cared for. As stated, if you are not a dedicated, Westminster-level breeder, get your animal fixed.

A lot of those dogs in rescue and shelters? Someone thought fixing didn't make a difference.

It's not short-sided. Like I said, I have a purebred pug who cost us around 2k to buy and he's worth a lot more to us if we ever decided to mate him. Shelter dogs are runaways or dumped by owners who can't or don't want to train them or are rescued because they were mistreated. Owning a dog is about responsibility. We've trained our dog professionally, and he doesn't run any risk of running away or interacting with another dog because we don't let him. We paid a lot of money for our dog because of his temperament to run the risk of him changing.