re: To get a puppy, or not to get a puppy.

Quoting Mommy Meyer:" That is a good suggestion to adopt an older dog. One of mine is a rescue and he is great. The only thing ... [snip!] ... bed so now he uses that instead of trying to get on the couch. An older dog will have less energy which could be beneficial. "

Plus you can tell alot more about the dogs temperment and personality once they get a little older. Some dogs just dont have the temperment to deal with toddlers, even if they are raised together. I have seen it happen to a couple friends of mine. They get a dog, and the dog ends up snapping at or biting the babies, and suddenly the dog has to go. I specificly looked for a dog who was going to be good at handling young kids and had experience with it. My son is now 15 months, and she adores him, even when he pulls her ears lol. Plus IMO rescued dogs know they were recued, and can become some of the best family dogs.

I'm 32weeks and getting a puppy mostly because my fiance wants one too and he promised to help with the puppy while I be with the baby..... I had this question in my head for awhile but know I will get through it just fine.. I am a big animal lover so I cant turn it down... best of luck with you decision!!

<blockquote><b>Quoting JeTaime:</b>" Hey Ladies, I apologize in advance if this is not the right forum for this topic. I am 24, DBF is 29. ... [snip!] ... for the puppy. I would appreciate any advice on this or similar experiences and what decisions were made and why. Thanks  "</blockquote>




I babysit for my niece and take care of my sister's lab at the same time. A puppy is a huge pain in the butt while he goes through his teething phase, and a lab needs TONS of attention. It's been hard for my sister's dog to adjust to a baby, he's good with her, never hurt her but I can tell the lack of as much attention has been hard on him.

I would wait, have your baby and when she/ he is a year old or so, get a puppy.

In the meantime, read up on labs, their personalities,proper training and how to raise one around a baby. Good luck.

Quoting Soon 2B Mom of 2:" Plus you can tell alot more about the dogs temperment and personality once they get a little older. ... [snip!] ... him, even when he pulls her ears lol. Plus IMO rescued dogs know they were recued, and can become some of the best family dogs."

Those are all really good points too. I think when it comes to being a pet owner that you have to really be dedicated to the animal especially when it is new to your home. Don't underestimate the responsibility otherwise you will be unhappy. That is why I say if you really consider it then still want the dog/puppy go for it. I think you just have to be aware of the commitment beforehand. Dogs live to be 10-15 years old at least. We have spent a decent amount at the vet for them. They usually have to have shots every year legally. Sometimes behavioral issues aren't the dogs fault but the owner. Some people just don't know the tricks of the trade. I had to learn a lot. I recommend crate training and reading how to properly do it. That is 100% the reason it was so easy for us to potty/house train our two dogs. I thought I could get rid of them both but my female loves her crate so it looks like it will be around for a long time. If you can invest in a puppy training class that would help both you and the dog depending on your experience with animals.