I really want a companion. Interested in a male dog. It would be my first dog besides a family dog that passed years ago, I'm a bit nervous to own my own pet. I have a one bedroom apartment. My activity level is on the lower end. Any advice on which breed, and how to obtain a dog? Craigslist? Is there a dog specifically for someone who wants a more relaxed dog? One that will lick and want to mount, of course
thanks!
Hello
@venusandromeda00
Over the decades of my Zoo Life, I have had dogs from high end breeders, mom & pop breeders, neighbors and friends and in more recent years CraigsList. If you have the money, then by
all means go to a Top-End breeder that can
guarantee their health, in writing, long term. And good luck finding one that will not obligate you to neuter him in the contract that
you will have to sign. And remember... "no nuts, no glory!". Meaning if he's neutered, he will not have the same sex drive and you
will be disappointed.
I have found absolutely wonderful dogs from friends, neighbors, and CraigsList. However, you
must do your homework by asking questions, and lots of them. Are the parents on the premises? Why are you selling? Look at the environment/home. Are there any redflags? Things like: no shots, deplorable conditions, cheap broken down cars in the driveway, etc.
Plus, are you able and willing to train your new dog? Take him on long walks? Vet bills, grooming, etc?
You asked about how to get "a more relaxed dog". If you buy an adult dog, let's say on CraigsList, you can see the temperament of the dog before you buy, as he's already grown. You can buy a pup, also from CraigsList, and you'll have to spend more time raising him and grooming his personality traits and behavioral habits; but because you are guiding his life from an early age, you have the best chance at raising your pup to become the adult dog of your desires... And you also have a real good chance at raising a total
brat and out of control
beast if you don't know how to raise a dog properly from a pup. If you buy some books on the subject and use high quality experts, either in-person or online, to guide you through the puppy times, you can
certainly raise a very good boy, even without
any prior experience. I have recently used SpiritDogTraining for my new girl with good results.
Do you have anyone you know and trust, to help you IRL? This can always be a life saver. Vets often can refer you to a good dog trainer as well. Good books can be found at your public library, as this will help with not having to pay for expensive books.
Hope this helps...