It’s a rather different post from me today so please allow me to introduce the first ever pet related feature to grace the Rock My Style pages!
My parents have regularly spoken about their wish to have a four-legged friend wandering about the house but felt it would be unfair to get a dog while they were both working full time as neither of them are able to easily nip home at lunchtime. However my mum (or ‘Mother Moore’ as my friends like to call her) is about to enter a new chapter in her life and will be taking a hiatus from employment over the summer before moving into semi retirement at the end of the year.
As we all know, a dog is for life and not just for Christmas, and so after a great deal of consideration (with umpteen conversations about pet insurance, changes to holiday plans and general canine expenses) they’ve decided they are ready to get a puppy. They reluctantly got some Dog Gear for the new would-be guest and also built a kennel for it. As they knew that dogs are prone to health issues as they spend most of their time in the dirt they even got a hold of this product which would help them maintain the dog’s health with the help of its regular use. A friend of mine recommended me the PetAware site which helped me convince my parents from a possibly yes to a 100 percent yes, as the site showed the best products under our budget and also related posts on how we could take care and understand them. With my mum at home over the next few months it seems like an ideal time to help the dog settle in and begin training.
So the next step is to decide on the breed and that’s where you guys come in. Mother Moore is keen on a terrier; a West Highland White perhaps or maybe a Fox Terrier but she’s very open to other breeds.
Given there a few requests for pet features in our content post last year I thought you wouldn’t mind chipping in with your suggestions and experiences. I’ve included a few pointers below which might be helpful.
- My ma regularly walks the forty-five minute trip to and from work and is keen to keep up with her quite speedy saunters once she stops working full time. They live opposite a huge park so walking twice a day isn’t an issue
- They own a modest three bed semi with a spacious garden so definitely have room for a smallish dog but a Great Dane is obviously out
- There’s no other pets in the household to have to worry about
- No grandchildren on the scene but they do spend quite a bit of time with family friends and their kids so an easygoing temperament would be appreciated. I should mention here the absolutely adorable picture above of Leo and his dog Sasha has been pinched from the very lovely Becky from her family shoot with Steve Gerrard
- When my parents were first married they did own a rather boisterous Spaniel named Lola, so they aren’t complete novices but let’s face it, it was a long time ago
Perhaps you don’t have a particular breed to suggest but would love to throw in some pearls of wisdom on dog ownership. I actually had a hard to time finding out which breed was for me. One of my friends recommended TreeHousePuppies as a great source for dog related stuff for a good read. Is there anything in particular you wish you’d known before a pooch joined your family? How did you go about choosing your four-legged friend; did you go to a breeder or a rescue centre? Or was it more that your dog found you?! Did you have plans to train or feed your canine in a particular way that went awry? Phew, all these questions! Mother Moore (and I) would like to thank you in advance for all your advice.
We have had a Border Terrier for the past 13 years and he has been the best £200 we have ever spent!
He is loving, well-trained and very intelligent (although I’m quite sure everyone thinks their beloved canine is a genius).
Aww, Border Terriers are so sweet Laura.
Fab traits to have too. If only partners had the same qualities…. x
I also have a border terrier, the most loving, fun, full of character dog I could ever hope for (yes I am biased) We were also in the same situation, parents retired due to illness and he brought a new wave of life into everyone and everything! Cannot recommend this breed enough, plus as someone who has allergies, he is also suitable! We got him as a puppy through the kennel club and met his mum and grandmother when we collected him, as first time dog owners we wanted the full experience and he didn’t disappoint… eight years later I still rush round and am greeted by the happiest dog in the world! Cant wait to see a picture whichever dog they choose! x
Oh wow mother and grandmother?! Must be great to know your dogs heritage. It sounds like you have a lovely fella there x
Hi Lauren, as a family we’ve always had Labradors, in fact we got our Blind Lab Stevie (after Stevie Wonder!) from the Dogs Trust, he was around 5 when we got him and was so grateful for a home, the centre advised that it’s really hard to rehome blind dogs so his carers actually cried when we had agreed to take him home! I’ve always loved labs as they are generally good with kids, intelligent and affectionate dogs, however they can be a handful for the first few years! Our family chocolate lab is unfortunately fading fast and my mum isn’t as agile as she once was, so we’ve been having the conversation about if / when to get another. We decided that until anything happens to Button we won’t be making another addition, we don’t want to introduce him to a replacement! However, we did decide that a working Cocker Spaniel would be the next breed to go for, they are reasonably sized, enjoy exercise, and stimulation but not quite as boisterous as a young lab! So that might be a consideration? Also, I’d definitely recommend contacting your local dogs trust or revoking centre they do get puppies in but you can also meet lots of other lovely woofs, though it is difficult not to take them all home, plus an older dog might be easier to manage, and most have passed the chewing stage! Good luck to your parents finding their new four legged companion!! X
Stevie Wonder! What a great name. I love this!
Such a good idea to get in touch with the local dogs trust Danielle. I actually think my Dad would prefer an older dog x
Hi Lauren! I have a little boston terrier called Diddy and he is just the best thing ever! He’s the perfect mix of playful and chilled. The one thing I wish people had told me about having a puppy is how hard the first few nights are! After a week without sleep I thought we had made the worst decision ever by getting him, but 7 months on I would never be without him!
So cute Danielle. Playful yet chilled sounds perfect x
Growing up we always had black labs (and a lone Jack Russell!) which were beautiful but big. When my mums last black lab died she said she wouldn’t have another dog. They had downsized and she felt they didn’t have room for another dog. But then Dennis appeared on the scene! I’m not a huge dog person, despite growing up with them, but Dennis is AMAZING! He’s a miniature Schnauzer and is the best behaved, cutest little doggy ever. I would highly recommend one. They are very placid, he’s always been well behaved (my mum is very good at puppy training though) and is great with the girls. Plus he doesn’t malt so no nasty hairs everywhere. If I were to get a doggie ever it would definitely be a ‘Dennis’ dog xx
Love Miniature Schnauzers Lottie! My friend’s M-I-L has two and they are impeccably behaved. James and I have been telling my mum this is the breed for her.
Dennis sounds ace x
Lottie – a miniature schnauzer is definitely on my top three dogs to have when we move into a bigger house. I also love daschunds and cocker spaniels. I hadn’t realised that schnauzers didn’t moult which is such a plus and will help persuade the more reluctant Steven to get another four legged friend.
Do it Lolly! My mum got hers from a lovely breeder so I’ll let you know details if you can persuade Ste! My aunty always had miniature daschunds (theres a bit of a mini theme in my family!) and they were super cute. Useless on walks as their legs were too short mind! xxx
My parents have a Hungarian Vizsla and he is the most ridiculous dog (I mean that in the nicest way). They are called “Velcro Dogs” due to the close bond they form with their owners and are very tactile with very quirky personalities (prone to sulks, plotting and general acts of civil disobedience). I love his personality and I wouldn’t change him for anything despite him going through the “terrible twos” to the point where we weren’t sure if we could cope. He is pretty demanding but that’s part of his charm. That said, I think when/if we come to get our own dog we’ll go for something a bit less high maintenance. Current faves are miniature Labradoodles and Norfolk terriers.
My one tip would be to pick a great breeder – ours was AMAZING. As well as being incredibly responsible about making sure we were well prepared as owners, she took safe breeding very seriously (there are lots of issues with pedigree dogs which stem from irresponsible breeding) and was a great support afterwards when Barney went on Hunger Strike (civil disobedience kicked in at approx twelve weeks…).
Hi Katie, what a beautiful dog and sounds like he has bags of personality.
I can’t believe he went on hunger strike though!
Haha yes we were very confused. Our vet told us to try tempting him with chicken. After our breeder had finished laughing she said to feed him plain boiled rice with yoghurt – he was just trying it on (a campaign for nicer “human food” apparently) and would get bored of his “human food” within a day or two, which he did. Vizslas: give them an inch and they play you like an instrument!
We got our Pembroke Welsh corgi puppy last year and she is the light of my life! She’s called Rhubarb and she’s just the best thing ever. I can’t imagine life without her now! Everyone jokes that she’s our first baby as we got married nearly 2 years ago. She has bags of personality, keeps up on any length of walk (despite her little legs), doesn’t smell doggy at all, is very cuddly and fell asleep with me on the sofa last night 🙂 good luck to your mum on the dog hunt and definitely consider a corgi! Xx
Well if they’re good enough for the Queen they should be good enough for my ma!
Love the name Rhubarb!
I would definately urge them to consider a rescue centre- so many lovely dogs that need a home and you can often find younger dogs if that’s what they were looking for. My parents have two spaniels that I grew up with- a springer and a cocker. The springer is a wonderful dog, very obedient, loving, gentle, good with kids. They are hyperactive when younger but with big walks and training are the best dogs. The cocker is a lovely dog but, cocks have seperation issues as a breed, and our one cannot be left alone for long periods of time so not ideal for everyone.
From what I’ve heard of Lola the springer spaniel she was very hyperactive! I’m sure my mum once said she pulled the pram over with my sister in it so she’s slightly tainted their view of the breed.
A trip to the rescue centre is definitely in order.
Whilst professional breeders are great there are so many pups that are in desperate need of a home. It can be challenging raising a rescued dog (you don’t always know much about their background) but I think if you could rescue a senior dog (less baby like sleepless nights and slightly less energy and furniture chewing tendencies) you could be fairly sure of their temperament from the go.
We don’t know what breed Sasha is (we have contemplated getting a DNA test to confirm… Has anyone else done that?) but she has such an unbelievable amount of energy… Mixed with lots of anxiety so she can be a handful. She was our first dog and so we were a bit unprepared for the challenges she initially bought. We have put in a lot of hard work training her and I think that would be the only thing I would differently. Perhaps I’d of looked a bit more into dog physiology first to understand certain behaviours. We ended up watching back to back episodes of Cesar Milan (the dog whisperer) and it helped no end.
Who knew dogs could be so complicated.
Hope we will get to see the new addition when he or she arrives and I’m sure they will find endless love however they come to find their new little mate 🙂
Also as a side note, I could never put Sash in kennels as her fear of the cages is just heartbreaking and so she goes to a dog sitter. It costs the same and is better for her state of mind so if they do go rescue they might want to consider trying to find a sitter for holidays etc… I couldn’t bear the thought that she thought I was going to leave her forever. But I am a total wuss when it comes to her and her complicated little brain… Or maybe you could have it for them 😉
Aww what a complex little character you have there my love. Adore this pic of Leo and Sasha.
A senior dog may be the way forward for my ma and pa. x
Also, I believe greyhounds are ideal dogs if you are often out as they don’t suffer greatly from separation anxiety. And they are SO adorable. Love a good walk and there are loads of retired ones needing good homes x
I’ve heard that retired greyhounds make wonderful pets. Steven’s grandparents used to have about five of them and he has such fond memories of them from when he was small.
Hi, we re-homed Ellie from a family who was emigrating. She’s a Cavachon (King Charles Cavalier crossed with a Bischon Frise) and she’s the best decision we ever made. Friendly, placid and a real personality. She’s wonderful with children as her previous family had 4 youngsters to keep her on her little paws, and so when our 3 nephews were introduced to her, she was super patient, even when then poked her in the eye, pulled her tail… Being a cross breed also means she doesn’t have the health problems that many pure breeds now have. Saying this, my husband grew up with Golden Retrievers and happily recalls fond memories of them, including the one who used to queue up at the ice cream van to wait patiently for a cone. Definitely research a few breeds that would be suitable for you, I would absolutely consider re-homing (no puppy woes and I think they are even more loyal) and be prepared for sheer joy they bring to your home.
Exactly a year ago today I had a Stroke and at 34 it was a devastating blow to be semi paralysed on my right side. Ellie wouldn’t come near my ride side until I started to regain some movement, but she stayed by my side when I slept (oh and I slept a lot), she would woof to wake me if I’d slept for over 2 hours to make sure I would wake and she was that happy face who didn’t mind if I had a rubbish day. I wouldn’t have left the house half as much if it hadn’t been for her. Some days we only got down the street and others we made it to the river, but it was a wonderful way to rehabilitate and start to feel some normality. I give her a lot of credit for helping me on the road to recovery and I’m pleased to say that a year on I’m doing very well indeed, thanks to nurse Ellie that is…
So whichever dog is fortunate to be brought into your parents home, they’ll have wonderful years of companionship, love and furry cuddles. Best of luck to your parents on the dog hunt! 🙂 x
So sorry to hear you’ve been so poorly Sorrel. Ellie sounds like she’s an absolute superstar. Glad you’re on the road to recovery x
We have a cockapoo. She is a bundle of fun, is loyal, affectionate and makes us laugh every day. As a cross between a cocker spaniel and poodle, they do vary in size (put always classed as medium) and coat (some are more curly than others but none of them moult) but what is consistent is their wonderful nature as a real family pet. She was very easy to train too! I couldn’t recommend her enough, and my friends have recently brought her cousin and other friends are thinking of getting one as they all just loved her.
For great advice on the breed and other tips on dog ownership I’d really recommend finding out if there is a local group / national society for the breed. There are group walks for Cockapoos run through http://www.cockapooclubgb.co.uk/ and these are a fantastic way to meet the adult dogs, talk to the owners and work out if they’re the right breed for you. We did that before getting one. Let’s face it, all puppies are cute and adorable but they don’t stay small and fluffy for long! You need to know that the adult dog is what you’re after and there is no better way than spending a couple of hours walking with a group of them and chatting to the owners. Good luck with it all! x
Excellent advice Vics. My parents live in Sheffield so there’s bound to be lots of these types of groups around there.
Cockapoos are adorable! x
If your parents live in Sheffield tell them to check out Thornberry Animal Sanctuary in North Anston – they’re also on Facebook
I’d say a smaller breed as your parents are heading for retirement. A cocker spaniel (either show or working) is a fab breed that will definitely need those 2 45 mins walk and the park! We’ve got a springer collie cross called Humphrey that we got from Jerry Green Dog Rescue. He has his emotional foibles but with firm training over the last 15 months we’re getting there. The next big challenge is adapting to a baby in Sept. We had a horrible experience with Dogs Trust in Leeds which was very upsetting (basically felt that they weren’t giving us the time of day and that we were horrible people!) We can’t imagine life without Humphrey now and he’s an integral part of our pack. Dogs are awesome!
Aww my first cat was called Humphrey – I love that name!
It sounds as though you’ve put in a lot of hard work so I’m sure he’ll be able to adapt when the little one comes along. Big congratulations on the impending arrival! x
When my parents lived in Kenya, they had two labrador retrievers who were *amazing*, they were so loving and loyal with gorgeous personalities. They can get quite large though, which worked in Kenya with its lovely weather all year round, but maybe not in England! If I could get any dog, I would get a King Charles spaniel – their faces and floppy ears make my heart melt. <3
My husband’s Grandma had two King Charles spaniels. My, were they pampered pooches! x
I’m a crazy dog lady and could talk dogs all day! I have a jack russell and yorkie cross, she is the most beautiful little thing and is my BFF. I had been brought up amongst a variety of dogs – yorkies, poodles, lhasa apsos, cocker spaniels and golden retrievers – and thought I could handle a pup easily – how wrong was I!!! The jack russell in Bella was overwhelming at times, and even my mum said she had never had such a hypoactive dog! I have an amazing bond with Bella and did actually train her very easily – she has an amazing repertoire of tricks and can say ‘mum’, ‘want one’ and ‘no’ – but the terrier instinct took over most of the time and she did not actually calm down properly until she was 4 years old!!
I have loved every border terrier I have met and would highly recommend one to join a family. Cocker spaniels and poodles are great too and my only pointer with these breeds is factoring in costs of grooming which can be up to £40 a time. I have to cut Bella’s fur three times a year and learnt to do it myself very easily though.
If were to get another dog I would definitely get a rescue dog, you hear so many lovely stories of the rescue dog effectively choosing the people and it is often a totally different breed to what they went in for. My cousin’s rescue dog Simba is much bigger than the dog that was planned but he was the right one and is the daftest dog I have ever met.
Your dog says Mum?! Get her on Britain’s Got Talent now! x
Just a word of warning about schnauzers. One of our family is now on her 2nd schnauzer and they are not all as placid as you suggest. Both of these schnauzers are yappy, barky dogs who growl at anyone who comes near them. The newest addition bit my toddler a few months ago with very little provocation. Admittedly the owner does let them ‘rule the roost’ , but they are still hugely territorial and aggressive.
On the other hand I grew up with Labradors and couldn’t recommend a more gentle dog. They do take a lot of walking and can be quite boisterous but all 3 of them were such gentle beasts.
I’m shocked to hear this of mini schnauzers! My parents have had them, including rescued ones, for 30+ years and we’ve not had any problems. With any of them!! I think the key is socialisation at a young age, there are lots of them where I live and not a problem with any of them we meet! Now Labradors around my way, that’s a different story, living in the Chilterns people move here and think ‘ooh, lets a family dog’ and end up with a bouncy, over the top labrador who bounces all over you, your small dog and child and generally causes chaos! However one my good friends has such a gentle giant of a black lab called Paddy who I adore and would easily take home!
I think the key here is the owners and how they handle them. It was mentioned the schnauzers rule the roost which I can’t imagine happening in my parents house!
Well I going to be biased as I LOVE dachshunds and who doesn’t love seeing those long bodied, short legged dudes trotting along?!?!? I have two names Jeffrey and Alan, both miniatures, Jeff is a wire haired and Alan a smooth. They are literally the. funniest. things. EVER!! So much so that a couple of years ago when I first got Jeffrey I started a blog, Sausage Tails. Jeff has even appeared no the BBC’s The Wonder of Dogs and has modeled for Mutts & Hounds (*smug doggy mummy alert*)
They are small dogs who think they are HUGE!! They need lots of socialisation from day one however can be very stubborn!! They are hounds and therefore may run off after squirrels (Jeff) or roll in fox poo (Alan) The misconception of dachshunds is that they don’t need lots of exercise which in fact, they will take as much or as little as you give them but obviously the more the better to keep them fit.
I think they are perfect as they are a big dog in a small body, if you don’t want a mini -even though my Jeff weighs 6.5kg!! then they also come in standard size – think Labrador body with no legs…. they are perky little chaps, will go on long walks or sit on your lap and watch TV and people are always wanting to look after them for you if you go away as they don’t mind having a small dog in their house!
My Mum has had mini schnauzers for 30+ years and finally took the plunge and got Rodney, a standard wire dachshund who is adorable & so handsome! Send your Mum over onto my blog and she can see exactly what they’re like!
And dog food? Just changed mine onto a raw diet by Nutriment, now that’s a whole other post!! 😉
I think I’ve mentioned before how much I love your dogs names. I do like an animal with a human name. I’ve been trying to convince James to let me have two cats and call them Gwen and John after my grandparents. It’s not really going well so far!
Get you having model dogs! Dachshunds are really sweet x
LOVING Gwen & john for cats names! 🙂
Yeah for pet posts! I could write for most of the day about this. We got our first puppy this time last year and now have ‘a very bouncy but so cute she gets away with it’ 13 month black lab called Holly.
We knew we wanted a black lab having grown up with them and we knew we wanted a puppy so we would be in control of training from the get go (ha ha ha, those with their own lab puppies will know why I laugh at that now). Choosing the right breeder is important if you go with a pup. Any reputable breeder won’t let a pup go before 8 weeks, will have mum and dad around for you to meet when visiting and will happily share all mum and dad’s lineage, medical history and health check scores. For the breed you go with, check what health scores are relative to the breed. For us it was hip, elbow and eye as the priorities. If they can’t provide this information, ask yourself why not.
I know little about rescue centers so can’t comment on re-homing a dog but have nothing but the highest praise for those who do.
We spent a lot of time working out our training plan and responsibilities between me and him indoors before getting the dog. I was to be the main trainer as Holly would spend most time with me, coming to work at my office but it was important we agreed on methods (positive training, highly reward based rather than some of the more traditional old school methods). We also decided to crate train at home, in the car and in the office. That was a hugely successful tool for us. Crates (a very large one) are only used in the office now when we have non-doggy friendly visitors in).
Different breeds suit different people so I think the best thing to do is work out what time you have, what energy you have, what lifestyle you have and where you want to the dog to fit in and remember that the early stages will be tough with rescue or pup, but time and effort get you through. And last but not least, never go ‘just to see’ the pups…..you will walk out with one so get the checks done first!
Ha ha Steph, I know a few people who ‘just went to see the puppies.’ and ended up with a new family member. You are so right!
I want a dog so badly 🙁 The bf says we can’t because we both work long hours and our flat is no where near big enough (although it does have a garden). I know he’s right, but I love dogs so much. Definitely a dog person rather than a cat person. I grew up with a golden retriever and when (not if 😉 ) we get a dog, it’s definitely going to be a retriever. They are so fluffy and gorgeous and always up for a cuddle. Although ours was pretty dopey and would never actually ‘retrieve’, more just stare at us when we scrambled into bushes to get the ball we had thrown. Would highly recommend this breed though! They have a lot of love to give. I have recently heard about this ‘borrow my doggie’ thing, when you can sign up to babysit dogs. I am currently trying to convince the boy that this is a good idea. X
P.S This has now got me thinking about Marley and Me, which is one of my favourite films, but makes me literally sob every time I watch it…
My friend signed up for the ‘borrow a dog’ thing. I’m not sure she’s actually been matched with any owners but it’s a really good idea. I think you should definitely convince your other half 😉
We have a 9 year old choc lab (brown bear) and she is the friendliest most soft dog you could imagine. However as a puppy my god it was hard going and many a tear (of mine) was shed when she had chewed her way through another set of my shoes (it was always my stuff). However I was a bit naive getting a puppy at 21 and being at uni so having a lot of free time. We now have to depend a lot on our mums to look after her when at work which luckily they enjoy, retirement is a much better time for a dog and we wouldn’t get another until then I think. For people who have the time though they make great pets but as said before are bouncy and big so could knock little people over quite easily! I love cocker spaniels and springer spaniels too but not much advice about breeds and how they are to live with! My bear is honestly my world and now she is getting old and grey she is happy just chilling and cuddling more than bouncing (she still has her moments!) Dogs are such loyal pets though and become part of the family my nieces and nephews love our bear and have grown up with her around so have a big bond with her which is lovely! Good luck im sure whatever dog they get it will be a fab addition! X
Thanks Alex.
I would be absolutely gutted to lose a pair of shoes to a dogs teeth!
We had a Springer Spaniel and Lhasa Apso while growing up (although not at the same time) and both were great wee dogs.
When our Lhasa passed away, I bought a Beagle from a very reputable breeder. He’s called Mr Bojangles and is literally the biggest ar$e you’ll ever meet, everyone finds his personality hilarious!
Beagles aren’t for the faint hearted – they like lots of company, moult all year round, they are esacpe artists and are notoriously difficult to train (once they get a whiff of something they fancy they have a one track mind) there is also a definite hound smell but those big brown eyes and floppy ears get me every time!
Aww Lynsey, a friend of mine has a beagle. So darn pretty!
I actually have a Great Dane! He’s *THE* best dog in the world, obvs but a lot of work. Hubert is 4 now so quite chilled and fantastic with my toddler, he creates a lot of mess though and my house is usually clean for about an hour after the cleaner has left. We meet lots of dogs when out walking him and I have to say I’d be tempted by a labradoodle next. They just seem to be the loveliest, friendliest dogs ever and the bonus is they don’t shed. love that they come in so many variations. maybe a minature labradoodle as others have mentioned?
Oh wow, what a tall dog to have around!
My mum has mentioned about a labradoodle so definitely a breed to look into
My parents have the most gorgeous cavapoo (cavalier spaniel x poodle). He’s medium sized so walks can be variable. He is such good company and loves a cuddle on the sofa as much as a run around the garden. Whenever I walk him I always get compliments, not only on his looks but also his friendly nature. We had Springers and a Labrador before him and he is so low maintenance in comparison.
Caoimhe, just looked up a cavapoo – what a cutie! Lovely to hear they have a friendly nature too.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks! my first family dog, Tia. We got her when I was 7 she was an amazing dog to grow up along side of.
They are an amazing breed, so loyal and affectionate, and quiet laid back too so there was no barking at the window at everything Tom, Dick and Harry who walked by.
I know there is a great breeder of ridgebacks in Doncaster. But there are many dogs who are in search of a second chance of finding a loving home at Thornberry Animal Sanctuary in North Anston. X
Had to google that breed. What a handsome dog!
Thanks for the Thornberry suggestion x
Lovely post and really interesting to read through all the comments here. I’m not a dog owner, but the other half and I adopted a cat three years ago. I would like to echo all the other comments about considering a rescue dog as an option. The place we adopted our Cookie from had lots of animals that needed a loving home of all ages and breeds.
I wasn’t sure about getting a rescue cat, but our little boy is utterly beautiful, a total character and has won me over entirely. My next pet will certainly come from a rescue center!
Aw lovely to think you ‘adopted’ an animal x
We have three pooches, two crossbreeds (four and three) and a Tibetan (10 months), all three are rescue/rehomed and we’ve had them from puppy stage onwards. They’re all lovely in their own way, and very different! Personally, I wouldn’t get a puppy form a breeder but I definitely understand why people do, as long as they do their research and ensure it’s all in order and not a puppy mill!
Our first dog we completely got by accident, we were planning on getting one for my mum but things changed and she wouldn’t have been able to look after it after all – and let’s face it, from the moment she’d fallen asleep on my lap, I knew that puppy wasn’t going anywhere… The second we got as company for her as we’re both out for work quite a lot and it’s lovely to see how they bond and romp about! The third was definitely not planned (I blame the husband) – he had to be rehomed and I knew once we’d meet him we wouldn’t leave without the pup. Luckily we moved house and have space for the little pack (although I’m not sure if the cat has forgiven us yet….)
Our middle dog is a a poodle/Lakeland cross and he is the sweetest, most loving dog I have ever come across – with a healthy hunting instinct ;). Poodles are also hypoallergenic and usually don’t hair all over the place (unlike our Yorkie/Chihuahua girl). Tibetan terriers are lovely, too – great temperament, loving, family friendly and incredibly sociable – and also no fur all over the sofa! On the downside, their coats are quite a bit of work, all the ones I know (including our pup-monster) are very talkative – and they have a funny howl-bark which is quite cute but I’m not so sure if our neighbours feel like that… They’re also quite stubborn.
They are hard work but it’s so worth it!
Oops – sorry – I wrote quite a novel there!
We like novels! And very helpful advice too. Thanks Maike
Lauren, we have a Tibetan spaniel who is just wonderful. They are not a common breed but my mother in law breeds them and there are a few breeders around the country. He is the same size as a west highland terrier but slightly smaller (I can easily carry him around). He is walked for about half an hour morning and evening but can happily walk for miles, he climbed a peak in Yorkshire at January far quicker than the rest of us. He also sleeps for abut 8 hours a day, which suits us perfectly when we are working but he also absolutely loves company. He is great with our nephews and we have never had any problems with children. He is terrified of black dogs but otherwise is a very happy chappy.
(Ps thank you so much for our engagement post help – the berry coat and hat went down a treat in the photos)
x
I think they’d like an eight hour sleeper!
Glad we could help you out on the engagement shoot. Do drop a link along to your pics so we can take a peek x
my in-laws have a flatcoat retriever. lovely temperament and not too big. would recommend looking into them!
Thanks Emma, will take a look x
Agreed Emma – they have gorgeous temperaments. Never met one who wasn’t completely lovely. I’d be tempted if it wasn’t for the hair!
Yay to the pet posts!
I have read a couple of good books as research for us hopefully getting a pooch later this year.
I thoroughly recommend Victoria Stilwell’s Train Your Dog Positively. It isn’t as practical or hands off as other training manuals, but is a great read as it goes into a lot of detail about dog psychology and behaviours which explains why they do what they do and how you can use reward based positive training to raise a good canine citizen!
It looks quite dry and daunting as it’s quite wordy, but I read it cover to cover in about 3 days as found it so interesting!
Thanks for the book recommendation. Will send my mum over to Amazon.
You must tell us if you get a dog! x
I have an almost 2 yr old French Bulldog – obviously I am biased but I think they are the best breed. His personality is huge and he is equal part chilled and energetic (chilled at home, energetic in the park – perfect!) he is also so, so loving (he loves a cuddle!) and extremely loyal. It’s like having a constant wee pal and living in London means I take him everywhere I go – he’s actually at work with me right now!
I echo someone else’s point that if you parents get a dog as a puppy they need to remember the tough first few weeks WILL be horrendous, but it WILL pass! At first I thought I’d made a major error (after two weeks of sleepness nights) but now it honestly is the best thing I’ve ever done. I love my pooch so much!
How fabulous you can take him to work with you!
Thanks for the words of wisdom on the first few weeks. I’m glad it’s my mum and dad and not me!
I used to be frightened of dogs (bitten as a child) until I met Tibetan Terriers, completely adorable and so loyal, they are known as “little people” as they love company. Although they are long-haired, they don’t moult. I work in an office that allows dogs which is just a wonderful atmosphere.
Wow another workplace allowing dogs! The idea of a non-moulting pup is very appealing x
Wow what a popular post! Shame we couldn’t all add pictures to show our furry babies off.
Claire you need to get yourself an avatar to use a pic of your pet as a profile pic 🙂
What a great read.. I too am about to embark on getting my first dog. My husband and I had decided that a boarder terrier would be the dog for us.. but then thought about a Beagle.. then an Irish Terrier.. and my son would love a Westie.. so much choice. I had Scottish Terriers growing up (Crackers & Bickleigh) so have some idea about what’s involved in owning a pup. Daft as this sounds our dog already has a name.. Smith. My husband and I decided we would one day own ‘Smith’ and then earlier this year he became half of my business name (Myrtle & Smith) – now that I’ve launched he has to be here!! Reading the comments above I’m tempted back towards a Border T again.. oh and we had thought about a Jack Russell too…. I just can’t decide…arggghhhh!!
Big congrats on the launch of Myrtle & Smith. Hope Smith makes an appearance soon!
We had the most beautiful Hamiltonstovare- they are Swedish foxhounds. Fell in love at discover dogs at Crufts but it ended sadly as he had a genetic brain condition… Utter heartbreak.
After nearly four years I’m ready to love another pooch, but we have a very new baby so it’s off the cards. I fancy a whippet or lurcher- and will be headed to rescue! Three legs, one ear, I don’t care, the scruffier mutt the better!
Re books, I wholeheartedly recommend Perfect Puppy by Gwen Bailey. There are classes that link with this approach called Puppy School and they were great too.
Oh Lucy, that’s so sad 🙁
Fab to hear you’re ready for another one but you must have your hands full at the moment. Big congrats on the new baby x
I would 100% recommend a greyhound or lurcher. There are so many of them in rescue centres, often around 18 months of age, so still youngsters but generally old enough to not have to worry about puppy-type training (training classes are always a fantastic idea when bringing a dog of any age home, as it helps to create a bond between dog and owner, Kennel Club Good Citizen classes are great)
Most people think sighthounds need a lot of exercise, but that is generally a myth – a couple of 20 minute ‘zoomies’ per day and they will relax on the sofa the rest of the time. They are great with people and some can be cat/small dog friendly, but the rescue centre would be able to advise how strong their ‘chase’ instinct is – they’re all individual.
Some people may be put off by their ‘non-cuddly’ looking exterior – they’re all legs! – but they are the most loving, cuddle-monsters you could hope to find! Couldn’t recommend highly enough
Thanks for the recommendation Danii. The ‘zoomies’ comment made me laugh. Sounds a bit like me and my exercise routine 🙂
Haha! I’d never heard of ‘zoomies’ until we started to go on group sighthound walks. It’s always best to keep close to someone else when they do their fly by as spacial awareness isn’t always a strong point 🙂
Another vote for a border terrier! I have teo and they’re just the best dogs, bundles of character. They do need a good bit of exercise or they can get frustrated, but it sounds as though your mum’s walking would cover that. One of mine (Sid) loves to go running with me, the other (Toffee) only runs if I lure her with treats – definitely the smart one!
They love a good nap and are very gentle.
Every border I’ve met has had such a distinct personality. Oh – and they look a bit like Paddington Bear.
Yay for Paddington Bear look-a-likes! x
Mum is currently taking advantage of not having a dog and is sunning it up in lovely spain. When she does get back into the land of Wifi though she will be super chuffed with all of your fantastic advice and comments. Thank you so much RMS community. You are ace and we can’t wait to introduce you to the newest member of the family in a few months. Excited! Xx
Me too Han! They’re a very knowledgeable lot our little RMS community. They’re fab x
my husband just stormed upstairs and said ‘That’s IT. No more lay ins, I can’t cope with the three of them on my own.’
All I could hear was havoc and shouting coming from downstairs. We have two children, two cats… And last week we introduced a puppy into the mix. He’s called Gibson and he’s lovely and SO affectionate but I have to be honest, I have had times where I have wondered what the hell I was thinking having a puppy and a toddler. Neither of them do as they’re told and my house smells like poo all the time.
He’s a lurcher x field spaniel. He’s gorgeous – but it’s really hard work!
Oh Sara, I feel for you. I’m not sure I could manage a puppy OR a toddler!
I love love love dogs, have spent a ridiculous portion of my life, and currently have a dog though my partner and I work full time (we have a rather logistically challenging life to make it all possible but it works!).
Anyway my first recommendation would be to seriously consider adopting. I know it’s a bit preachy, but there are so so many dogs waiting in shelters and being put down every day; plus it’s very possible to get a puppy if your mum is set on that (people seem to always think it’s not!)
Our dog is a rescue – we got him in New York where he was due to be put down in 24 hours as he was old (8) and fat (beyond obese!). He ended up being the most wonderful dog we have ever had – came fully trained, and is just so happy to be alive and in a home, he’s wonderful in every way. He’s a beagle/collie cross (we think – certainly very beagle-y) and has a great personality.
Beagles are generally wonderful family dogs, and very food driven which helps with training. And they can walk for hours and hours, but unlike some other active dogs do not NEED to be exercised to exhaustion to behave at home (unlike all the labs I’ve had!).
For me I’d go for a mixed breed rescue – the only pedigree I’ve had has had some health problems that the non-pedigrees didn’t suffer from. The problem with getting a non-pedigree puppy is that is could well come from a puppy farm and it can be very difficult to get a good reading on the home life of the parents – puppy farmers are getting more and more sneaky!
Thanks Anna, how lovely to have rescued your dog. He sounds adorable x
Puppies! We rescued a little Pug (contraversial – I know!) puppy three years ago and she is the best decision we ever made. Sadly her Mum turned on her as she was the runt and I fell in love with her the minute I saw her. She has bags of personality and loves her walks, she’s also wonderful with our six nieces and nephews who are very ‘handsy’ and we can’t wait for her to meet our first real baby who arrives at the end of the Summer – she’s already very protective of me and the Bump! What’s more, my retired parents adore her and have recently taken her on a three week jaunt to the South of France. She is spoilt rotten and loves playing but curls up with them on the sofa in the evenings and gives everyone so much love. They may not be the prettiest dogs (we were very lucky and have a very pretty Pug who hasn’t got very fat!) but they are unbelievably loving, fun and intelligent and give us better companionship than I could ever ask for. So excited to find out what breed your parents finally settle on – update posts please! x
Aww your poor little pug, how sad the Mother turned on her.
Fab to hear she’s looking after you and the bump.
Will definitely pencil in an update post! x
OK, so I know I’m late to the party but I’m amazed no-one has mentioned staffies! Maybe its because they’ve got a bad reputation since other bull terrier breed have been banned, the yobbos who used to have pit bulls have now moved on to Staffies but honestly they are LOVELY.
Super friendly, great with kids, love snuggles and very intelligent. Plus there are tons of them in rescues and it breaks my heart to hear people talk about how they’re an aggressive breed when they’re just not.
There’s no such thing as a bad dog, only bad owners!
Even if you don;t go for a staffie, please please consider a rescue dog – there are so many needing homes I’m sure there’s at least one perfect match out there 🙂
Hi Claire, my sister-in-law used to have a staffie-lab cross and she was a lovely dog; very placid and friendly.
Rescue dogs are definitely being considered 🙂 x
Hi! Sorry – I am late to the party too…. Firstly, what a great decision they are making – being a dog owner is the BEST! There are many breeds which would be perfect, & lots have already been mentioned earlier in the thread, but I just wanted to pitch a case for a rescue dog. We rescued our Malshi (Maltese cross Shih tzu – the best way to describe her is like an Ewok crossed with Falcor from The Never Ending Story!) from Battersea last year, and it’s the best decision we ever made. There are so many amazing dogs out there needing homes, it’s crazy not to pick one. Also, although breeds have characteristics, all dogs’ personalities are different so picking a breed is no guarantee. I would, instead, recommend going to the shelter, meeting as many dogs as they can, and at the end of the day, just picking the dog whose heart speaks to theirs. Mop is none of the things we thought we wanted in a dog when we were first looking, but she’s the best thing in the world, and I wouldn’t change her for anything! x
Emilie – An Ewok and Falcor – what a fabulous description. She sounds very cute! x
I’m very late to the party, but coming across this post propelled me to comment rather than simply browse this fab blog! I’m a mother of two. I have a 2 year old Lakeland terrier called Hugo and an 8 year old wire fox terrier called Rupert.
I previously would be inclined to pick larger dogs having previously owned a boxer, however I ended up with Rupert. He is the most entertaining, little dog I have ever known. He has the best little personality, walks for miles, is obsessed with balls and can also sleep soundly all day!
He has totally convinced my husband that smaller dogs are great (which is why we ended up with a Lakeland!) and we have vowed never to live without a wire fox terrier again! I would most definitely recommend.
Hugo, was the best puppy ever. My husband works night shifts and so often sleeps during the day. Hugo took to this like a fly to water. He also trained very quickly. Hugo is a timid little thing at times, probably living in the shadow of his lively big brother.
Hope this helps!
I’m late to the party too but also felt compelled to comment. I have a collie-cross-whippet. He has the collie intelligence and the whippet laziness- a quick run around and he’s asleep for the rest of the day.
I got him as a puppy from friends whose lovely family dog had puppies. I was a novice to puppy ownership and thankfully had the foresight to book us on a puppy training programme- I would definitely recommend this if your parents go down the puppy route! It just helped us get rid of any unwanted behaviours such as fear aggression.
Anyway, he is the most adorable dog. He knows exactly what I am planning to do seconds before I do it and makes sure he is in on the action. He is caring and cuddly- worming his way into my arms for a snuggle at any opportunity. I have a 5 month old baby who he was so confused by (who is this new toy?!) but he loves him now and I have to stop him constantly giving him kisses.
He, like most dogs, is so intuitive to emotion. On a bad day, he will sneak over and gently put a paw on my knee and cock his head- this from a dog who is not afraid to jump on the settee and give me a good face wash on a many times a day basis! Amazing how they know what we need when we don’t even know ourselves.
Dog ownership is the best! I hope your parents find a suitable and lovely companion.