We are thinking of getting a dog for our boys?

Question

We have a lot of room in our home and backyard and are thinking of getting a Lab or Retriever. I really do not want anything that will get too big or be too high maintenance. I guess because I fear I will be the one to take care of it after the novelty wears off. The boys and my husband say they will help but I am not too sure. Any suggestions on dog types or what to do?

I find that out of most so far that the less shedding dog variety is probably where I should start looking. Any other breeds that are like that?

Answer 1

Well labs and goldens are both high energy dogs that range between 60 and 90 lbs generally. High energy dogs need to be exercised for a minimum of an hour a day or you risk them finding something to release their energy on (and it is always your favorite thing or the most expensive for some reason). If you're looking for something not too big, I'd say 60 lbs and under would be good. For something not too high maintainence and moderate energy how about these breeds? You'll notice they are all quite different from one another. I thought that would be best since I don't know your preference. All are known to be good with kids though you will likely find a bit of variance within each breed. Links to each one are provided below in the order the dogs are listed. If none of these are your type, go to the AKC website (just use a link below) and select breed by either name or group and see what look you like. If you like the look, read the first paragraph and the section on temperment. If you still like it, discuss it with your family and see what they think. Good luck in your seach!

Boxer (generally GREAT with kids and very patient)
Beagle (pretty active but great with kids)
Akita (size varies and they are often not good with other animals)
Schipperke (a very sweet little dog, reserved with strangers, excellent guard dog and great for rodent control)
German Shorthaired Pointer (generally calm in the house and active outdoors, not always the best guard dog, generally very willing to please, usually good with kids)
Norwegin Buhund (good dogs but often a bit pricey as they are not a common breed)

Answer 2

I have always grown up with pets myself, and think they are wonderful editions to families. Children learn alot about life and caring for others through having pets. Dogs especially, love so unconditionally - they are great companions. The fact that you have a yard and a spacious home sounds like it would be great for having a dog.
Labs and retrievers both are known for being very intelligent and having mild temperments - great for having around kids. One person posted that you may want to talk to a vet about the type of dog to get. I think that's a good idea (or you could even do some research on your own) as certain breeds tend to be afflicted with certain medical conditions when they get older.
I also recommend if possible to get a puppy. I fully support getting animals from pounds (I've gotten several pets from there), however if you get a dog when it's a puppy you are able to have control over their training. Older dogs may have some bad habits ingrained in them. That being said, I did rescue a couple of older pets from the pound and they have been two of the most wonderful animal friends I've ever had!
Once you've done some research I think it's a good idea to go as a family to choose the dog. In the end it's best to choose whichever dog your family falls in love with :D

Answer 3

Any dog you get will require work. That means cleaning up after it, training, and attention (e.g. Walks and exercise). Golden Retrievers are really gentle giants, but they do require exercise and attention.

Maybe you should foster parent a dog to see how it goes first. Then if the novelty wears off and the family still enjoys the dog you can get one. I believe some shelters allow you to be a foster parent to a dog.

Answer 4

Labrador and golden retrievers are big and high maintenance because they need a LOT of exercise. They also need regular ear cleaning because their floppy ears are prone to infection. Puppies of these breeds (or any breed, for that matter) take a lot of time to train and exercise. And especially while the dog is between 6 months and 3 years of age, it will be extremely rambunctious! But if you're up for it, retrievers can make great pets. They can get along with anyone, they love the water, are very trainable, and are very active and playful.

Never get a dog and expect your kids to take care of it. They can do a lot of the work, sure, but in the end, you will be ultimately responsible for the dog. Dogs also easily live 12 years or more. Only consider getting a dog if the whole family is up for the responsibility. Dogs are also expensive to own. They need regular vaccinations and vet check-ups, and they have to be either neutered or spayed.

You could get a purebred dog, but what I would recommend is instead going to your local animal shelter and looking at the adult mutts there. The shelter staff can help you narrow down your search to dogs that will suit your lifestyle. Be sure to only consider sturdy dogs that will be good with your kids. You'll find lots of medium-sized, fun-loving mutts in a shelter.

If you want a breed that doesn't shed, check out the Portuguese water dog. These are medium-sized dogs that are good with kids, strangers, and other pets. They are very active and playful, and love the water.

Answer 5

As a parent, you are ultimately the one responsible for the care of any animal you bring into your home, regardless of promises made. If you do not want high maintenance, you do not want a lab or a golden they are very energetic and need daily walks/runs. I reccomend not getting a dog until you are okay with the possiblity of taking on the repsponsibility of dog ownership. Get the boys Nintendo Dogs or a good stuffed animal, then that way when the novelty wears off, a living creature does not suffer.

Answer 6

Labs and Retrievers are great, but not a good fit for families. They have far too much energy to be left in a backyard without daily walks. I would suggest you look into a terrier breed or a cocker spaniel -these are great family pets with maintenance on an "as feel like it" basis.

Answer 7

Get a Lab for a outdoor dog or a schnauzer for inside. schnauzers don't shed and eat a lot less than a bigger dog (less poop!) I have had both and really like the miniature schnauzer. Both will cost some $$ if they are pure bred. If you are going to end up taking care of the dog, what would you prefer?

Answer 8

Labradors and Retrievers are the best family dogs available. If exercise is the problem, install an invisible fence. Before buying a dog buy some fish to test your boys. Do they clean the tank and feed it food? If this is too time consuming and you want to skip to a dog, do LOTS of research.
Labradors (I have one at home!) need plenty of exercise, yet they get tired out quickly. Make sure your boys exercise the dog, give it water, and brush it right away when they come home. Develop a routine. If they do not follow this routine, be tough. Explain what will result out of their lack of supervision and what could happen. This should not sound like a threat, however only a warning. Labs also need a bit of grooming. Bathe them once a month and brush them everyday. Brush their teeth every week. Labs are one of the greatest dogs ever! I suggest feeding adult Labs 3 cups once a day. When they are puppies, talk to your vet, considering their age. Hope I helped!

Answer 9

well, i would personally go for a smaller dog that doesnt leave fur all over the place. I'd probably go for an english staffie since it is very low maintenance, great with kids, very smart and a medium size dog.
As well as an awesome looking dog.

Answer 10

Gee do you think people are going to answer your question anything other then Lab or Golden.

Hey how about a dog that is not oily and sheds all over your house.
Oh ya how about that lab that dragged that poor kid around the yard a couple years back with a scarf around her neck killing her. Yup that's a smart breed. Good breed to guide blind people. Please. There are so many better breeds then Labs and Golden's.

GEEKID10 is right Wheatens are great with kids.
I have Mini Schnauzer also great with kids. Both breeds won't leave a ton of fur around your house.