Introduction

1. Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

• first dog

2. Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?

• No

3. Describe your ideal dog.

• The ideal dog would be cuddly and loyal, good with a kid and a cat, not high energy or high shedding.

4. What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

• a small or medium size dog, something manageable

5. What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

• potty training, go off leash, fetch and some basic obedience

6. Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

• no

Care Commitments

7. How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

• about 2 hours

8. How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?

• average 1 hour

9. How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

• yes

Personal Preferences

10. What size dog are you looking for?

• small

11. How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

• little

12. How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

• very important

Dog Personality and Behavior

13. Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

• snuggly all the way

14. Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

• not sure

15. How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?

• little barking

16. Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

• no

17. Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

• separation anxiety

Lifestyle

18. How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

• around 5 hours 5 days a week

19. What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?

• mellow personality, they won’t get involved

20. Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?

• one cat

21. Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

• yes

22. Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

• any breeds

23. What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

• I’m not aware

24. What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

• 84

Additional Information and Questions

25. Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.

• I first wanted to get a German shepherd, I just think they look incredible and are incredible dogs. Unfortunately, I don’t think I would be able to manage a large size dog having a working routine and a four years old to look after. I don’t think I would have time to walk a pet all the time. I believe a dog that can get some exercise just by being at the back yard would be more realistic

26. Feel free to ask any questions below.

Hello reddit,

Two weeks ago, we brought in a one-year-old poodle-mix who has a history of neglect. Penny has not gone to the bathroom outside, but only goes in our apartment. She has pee pads, which she uses maybe 1 in 5 times. We have another dog and live in an apartment building without access to a yard. We ensure both dogs are walked more than four times daily.

She is a super stealth pooper, the moment she is out of our sight, she finds a way to go. I feel bad that she feels the need to hide from us. After trying the strategies below, my best guess is that she has trauma from her previous home, which causes her anxiety over going to the bathroom. I wish she would go outside, giving me the chance to praise her and teach her that it's okay.

Here are the strategies I have tried so far:

• Establishing a routine with regular walking times. We walk the same path each time. We have tried walking her with and without our other dog. We have also tried walking her together, and walking her individually. Thoroughly cleaning the carpet after any accidents to remove the scent.
• Attempting to use the pee pad outside, though she showed no interest in it, and she's inconsistent with its use indoors. Tried this with a slight pee-smelling pad and a fresh one.
• Keeping her leashed to me indoors at all times, which was challenging because she's prone to UTIs. Despite frequent walks, she wouldn't urinate, leading me to stop this practice to avoid the risk of a UTI.
• Offering rewards when she uses her pee pad, although I haven't yet had the chance to praise her for going outside.
• Finding a quiet area outside - we live in a major city, so I thought maybe it was overstimulating. However, even in a quiet space for hours outside, she still did not go.
• Buying an extended leash - I thought maybe getting some distance from me would help, but she still will not go. I would love for her to have the opportunity to go in a confined space without a leash, but cannot think of anywhere where this would be appropriate. This must be a reflection of our city, because I do not know anyone with a yard.
• Pretending not to look at her. I will watch her shadow or pretend to look away to give her privacy, but I think she is on to me. Praising our other dog for going outside in hopes of encouraging her by example. Our other dog has never had an indoor accident.
• Praising her for sniffing around outside.
• Crate training. Okay, this one is interesting. She has anxiety when left alone (which is worthy of a different post) and will scratch until her nails crack and her paws bleed. So, I bought her a sturdy fabric crate she couldn't injure herself with. She liked the crate, but chewed through the zipper in a matter of seconds. There is a leash attached to the inside, so I puppy-proofed the cord and attached the leash to her harness. She escaped from the harness easily, after pooping on the perimeter of the crate. I bought her a new escape-proof harness.

I am honestly not sure what the best approach is. Does anyone have any advice for Penny and I? Thank you kindly, for reading.

Our dog has a favorite toy that’s from my partner’s parent’s old dog and I want to get her a new one for our house but I can’t find it anywhere. It’s a hollow plastic ball with large holes in it she uses to grab it about the size of a large soccer ball. It’s very sturdy and they told me it’s originally made for lions. It’s held up just fine against a 120lbs shepard, a mastiff and our Malligator with only a bunch of teeth marks to show for it. There’s no branding in it but it looks a little similar to a big jolly ball but without the little thing inside. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Hi everyone,

I wish y’all a happy Easter. :)

**Introduction**

1)	Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

* I owned a loving but stubborn Dachshund before. I would love to grow, as a dog owner.

2)	Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a [reputable breeder]( http://ownresponsibly.blogspot.com/2011/07/identifying-reputable-breeder.html)?

* Preferable through a reputable breeder.

3)	Describe your ideal dog.

* Fun, weird, energetic, friendly, loves kids

4)	What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

* Since the death of my dachshund, I have the desire to buy a husky as a family member. It just matches with everything I’m looking for.

I also thought about a golden retriever but a husky is just that special kind of breed. :)

5)	What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

* Call-Back, Sit, Stay, etc. And not destroying my home.

6) Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

* Negative.

**Care Commitments**

7) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average?  What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?  

* My plan would be to exhaust him properly before work so that he rests or sleeps as much as possible in my absence.

At noon, another hour of activities would be planned. Several hours in the evening are self-evident.

The adjacent walk / bicycle path and the countless meadows, fields, forests and hiking trails in the area would offer themselves well to ensure variety. Here the husky could move freely without problems. (Of course, with regard to the natural hunting instinct.) I have already discussed this with the owners of the areas and the local hunter.

In addition, I would like to go to the city with him several times a week to offer him sufficient contact with people and dogs.

My hobbies (hiking, jogging, cycling, ...) are hopefully also a bit exhausting for such a top athlete. ;)

8)	How much regular brushing are you willing to do?  Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home?  If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

* I’m open to do everything myself. Financially I still have the option, to get it done professionally.

**Personal Preferences**

9)	What size dog are you looking for?

* Medium / large

10) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

* Quite a bit.

Problems with neighbors are excluded due to the secluded location.

**Dog Personality and Behavior**

11) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

* I love to snuggle but I don’t mind if he needs some space. 

12) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

* No preference.

13) How  would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard?  How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?  

* Friendly and happy.

14) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

* No.

15) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

* I want to avoid aggression, as much as possible. But I can deal with it.

**Lifestyle**

16) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

* And that’s gonna be the biggest problem.

Due to my office job, I now have the opportunity to work half a day from home every day.

This means that he would be alone for a maximum of four hours on three days and a maximum of five hours on two days.

The whole thing is agreed in writing and I have a permanent employment relationship. So it is also certain for the future that he would not be alone for longer than this time.

My work colleagues support me in this and I could even take the dog with me to the office. However, I would like to avoid this due to the amount of space and volume.

In total, the husky would therefore be 22 out of 168 hours a week alone.

17) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog? 

* For emergencies, my brother, who lives in my house, supports me. But he got no preferences.

18) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets?  What breed or type of animal are they?

* If required, I’m open to getting another dog.

19) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

* Not yet. That might be the case in a few years. 

20) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

* I don’t rent.

My house is in a secluded location and I have a meadow, a forest, field and mountains.

21) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

* Germany. 

22) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

* 16,3 degree Celsius Summer, -0,5 degree Celsius Winter

**Additional Information and Questions**

23) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.

* Of course, there is enough money every month for dog food, toys, veterinarian, tax, care, etc.

A money reserve for unforeseen cases (operations, legal cases and other) is also available.

I have already read a wide variety of posts in forums about huskies. However, the opinions vary from "You can't leave a husky alone for more than three hours." to "I leave my husky alone for 6 hours a day. He just has to be exhausted." and "It depends on the individual case and how the husky was brought up."

Therefore, I would be very interested in your opinion on my case.

Can a husky expect this time alone? (There still might be room for negotiations with my boss.)

If so, from what age?

Have I forgotten something or are there other points that could be a problem?

It is my absolute goal to welcome this sporty, crazy and friendly dog breed to me.

But only if I'm sure he'll be fine.

Thank you very much in advance. :)

When my 6 year old dog was a puppy she would bite like any other dog at her age. Now she moves her head away whenever I try to play with her mouth like we used to and I miss the biting for some reason. She was always kinda gentle too.🥺 On the other hand, I fostered a piranha puppy that would wake me up by shredding my hand hanging off the bed and I sure wasn't looking forward to that every morning lol.

What is your favorite crinkley toy? My 45lbs bulldog cross LOVES the bark box fried egg and I would love to get her some more for her.

Last night I was on a camping trip and some of my fellow campers were cussing at their dog and hitting the dog with a stick😥 so if you guys could just please wrap your dogs in a nice big hug and tell them how loved they are because animal abuse happens a lot we just don't see it :(

Which pet insurance is best for you? Are there any that may cover your dog's current treatment? Did your dog get injured during the waiting period and want to know if you're covered?

Here's the place to ask.

Do know we cannot help you here with medical concerns, and lying or not disclosing things to the insurance company is illegal so we don't allow that either.

Does your dog turn his head when he hears an odd noise? Does your dog bury their food with your pants? This is the thread to ask why.

Please keep this thread to non-medical issues only.

This thread is where to get emotional support with all things related to death and illness with your dog. This is also a thread where you can seek assistance with deciding whether it is indeed time.

This is not a thread to seek anecdotes with medical care. All rules involving medical questions and anecdotes remains the same for this thread.

If your dog has passed, you can still post here for emotional support or you can create your own thread tagged with one of the RIP flairs. Be sure to review the rules of our flair guide. It is up to you how you choose to grieve.

I am looking for advice on how to possibly transition my dog from always being at home to a RTO work culture now that the pandemic has passed. Some important background information:

- I actually got my mini poodle a year or two before the pandemic. However at the time I was unemployed, then went to grad school, then was able to find a job that let me WFH up until now. Therefore, she has not had significant experience with me being not at home for long periods of time.

- We tried crate training but she hates it and always manages to escape. She definitely has separation anxiety to the point that when I am out she is constantly barking, howling, and sometimes destructive.

- She has IVDD, which is a degenerative spinal disease so she is not allowed to do many things or else she might become paralyzed again. So no daycare and she has special needs for walks too. I just worry a lot when I am not home she is going to hurt herself or something horrible.

I know I probably should have prepared for this with training but after she became paralyzed for a bit of time, training went on the back burner to focus on her healing and health. So please be kind.

I don't have any idea how dogs manage to be by themselves for almost 8-9 hours a day at home while people go to work? I would love some advice, experiences, or helpful bits of information. Thank you!

Not looking to demonize any food brand here... just wondering if others have similar experience. The issue seems to have resolved but I have an upcoming appt and am still curious if others have experienced this.

I feed my dog a mixture of Natural Balance and Purina Pro Plan. my vet approves of this for my dog.

I started a new bag a few weeks ago and my dog ate around the NB (I serve with another kibble). He eventually went back to his bowl and finished later in the day.

Since starting the bag, I noticed every time he was laying down he was moaning quite loudly (louder, longer and different than his usual sigh).

The last couple of days I just fed the other kibble. No groaning.

Early March (but before this started) he had abdominal ultrasound (at my request) and nothing amis there.

I am thinking it was just a bad bag but wonder if anyone else has encountered similar.

We talk a lot about meeting a dog’s needs — but does anyone else struggle with separating the “nice to haves” from the “need to haves”? I honestly could spend three whole days on various kinds of mental exercise & enrichment, then take him on a five mile hike, and he’d still be game for more.

Where does ”need” end and “want” begin?

Just looking for some advice. I’ve got an 13yr old Labrador. She’s a beautiful girl but when we get out on walks she can struggle a bit especially on hills. I’ve tried taking out shorter distances but she’s still fun of energy. Plus we’ve got her daughter who’s a ball of energy and this pushes Midge (my dog) to go all out What’s I’m asking if anyone can recommend a good quality carry bag for her. She’s only little (around 20kg) so just something that will allow me to carry her home and keep her comfortable without her missing out on time outside Ideally a sling style but the main thing is that it’s comfortable for her

(Just to start im not a dog person and know nothing about them)

So my Grandma has two dogs, a yorkie and a yorkie x dashhound mix. They dont go for walks, i believe only have one toy, they have a bed, food, water, but the only space outside they have is a small walk way, my grandma works alooot and i hate dogs but i do feel bad for them because they NEVER go out.

Ive tried to tell her multiple times that the older girl (yorkie) and her son (mix) NEED to just go somewhere nicer but she doesnt listen because “their her babies” but its not fair on them at all! Im 18 and work 5 days a week so im too tired to look after them, but at this point i dont really have a choice, my grandma never actually wants to take the responsibility over “her” animals so i kind of have to step up and do all the tough work for her.

Does anyone have any recommendations for leashes or, well anything really? Im really not sure how to look after these dogs…but i feel bad for them and this life isnt fair.

Hello everyone - new here. Our household (My wife and I) just got a 2 year old mixed green but mostly terrier from the shelter today. We've owned dogs before but it's nice to come on reddit and just get some advice -

What have you found the best ways to integrate a new dog into a home?

Any suggestions on toys to keep the her mentally engaged? We are upgrading our toys to some more durable ones as she seems to be a chewer but it could also be coping with the new environment and the stress

Lastly, what activities besides walking did you find useful for bonding?

Thank you

Introduction

1. Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?
2. I grew up with a boxer and golden retriever on a farm. First adult dog
3. Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?
4. Either - but have been looking at breeders more.
5. Describe your ideal dog.
6. medium to large dog that gets alonf with other dogs and people and is happy going with me everywhere and being part of my daily life.
7. What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?
8. Vizsla - because they are gorgeous, playful and loyal - even if clingy
9. Bernese mountain dog - because they are like cuddly bears, super friendly and loyal and love to play
10. Labs
11. Australian Shepperds because they are gorgeous
12. What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?
13. All the basics, come when I call him / her, dont jump on people (my parents are elderly and I dont want them being jumped on), dont bark excessively
14. Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?
15. No

Care Commitments

1. How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?
2. Multiple walks a day. I want to dedicate a lot of time in the beginning especially in order to have a well behaved dog. I work from home and am flexible, can take breaks to play, cuddle and go for walks.
3. How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?
4. 1-2hours excercise during the week.
5. More on weekends, 3-4hours.
6. How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?
7. once a week for brushing, and maintenance

Personal Preferences

1. What size dog are you looking for?

a. medium to large, around 15kg and more
2. How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?
a. minimal, barking and slobber, a little shedding is ok
3. How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?
a. yes important because I want to run on the beach and would love the dog to play on the beach wihtout leash
Dog Personality and Behavior

1. Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

a. snuggly but not over exceesively, also independent at times would be good.
2. Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?
a. Eager-to-please.
3. How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?
a. Would love a dog who loves everyone and is very gentle, even with visitors. OK if the dog is alert with people it doesn’t know at first
4. Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?
a. No - I really want a dog that gets along with other dogs.
5. Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?
a. basically getting along with other animals and people. My parents have 2 cats so i would like to be able to take the dog there with me when I visit
Lifestyle
a. How often and how long will the dog be left alone?
a. 4 -5 hours once a week or twice sometimes. I work from home
b. What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?
a. Other people would just give the dog love. I would be responsible for the training and caring.
c. Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?
a. no. but my parents have 2 cats and my girlfriend has a water dog but we dont live together. would be great if they could play together and be friends
d. Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?
a. No
e. Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?
a. rent a 2 bedroom apartment.
f. What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?
a. Portugal - none that I know of
g. What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?
a. warm to hot summers 28-33 c
b. colish winters 10-14
Additional Information and Questions
25) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.
26) Feel free to ask any questions below.

Hi all! We’re trying to come up with a breed or two for our family that could live with our 10-year old cat who thinks he is a dog. Thanks for your help!

Introduction

1. Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

Yes, it will be our (spouse and I) first dog. We both grew up with dogs though.

2. Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?

We are open to either.

3. Describe your ideal dog.

We’re looking for a smaller dog who can become good friends with our large older cat (13 pounds). He doesn’t have a lot of experience living with dogs, but in his limited time he always wants to hang out with them. He follows us around the house everywhere and likes being the center of attention. Besides the cat, we enjoy hiking and camping and would love a dog that can come with us on those trips, but also is lower energy and wants to watch a movie at home while cuddling and getting lots of pets.

4. What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

We’ve been looking at Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, but are open to any and all suggestions.

5. What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

All the basics and it would be ideal for them to be able to be traines for recall and to enjoy riding in a baby trailer behind our bikes (we bike a lot in town and on longer trips).

6. Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

Not looking to do either, just a nice family dog.

Care Commitments

7. How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

We have a great fenced in yard and go on multiple walks a day. We really want a well trained dog and want to dedicate the time into making that work. We both work from home and have flexible schedules so get to ply and interact throughout the day.

8. How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?

We are outside walking and in the backyard multiple hours a day currently and would bring the dog with us. Walks, hikes, and play time in the fenced yard are the primary day to day plan. Looking for a dog that is a bit lower energy and doesn’t need hours of high intensity excerise.

9. How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

We have a long haired cat who we gets brushing and grooming weekly from us. So we are willing to learn how to provide this ourselves or pay a professional for grooming we can’t do.

Personal Preferences

10. What size dog are you looking for?

We would like a smaller dog (under 25-30 pounds).

11. How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

We are ok with shedding and slobber, but would love a lower amount of barking.

12. How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

This would be great, but is not a deal breaker. We understand it will take a lot of training to get there.

Dog Personality and Behavior

13. Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

The more snuggles the better.

14. Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

Eager-to-please.

15. How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?

Would love a dog who loves everyone and is very gentle, even with strangers and visitors.

16. Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

No - we really want a dog that gets a long with other dogs.

17. Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

They have to be able to live with our cat. We do not have kids, but there are a lot of kids on our street so getting along with children is important too.

Lifestyle

18. How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

We both work from home and are around the house a lot. But it would great for them to be able to be alone for 4 hours or so once or twice a week as they get older and more comfortable.

19. What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?

Both of ua have the same preferences and will be equally involved in caring for the dog.

20. Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?

We have a larger older cat (10 years and 13 pounds) who really likes dogs but does not have a lot of experience living with them. He is super social, follows us around the house, and loves being the center of attention. He is not very assertive with dogs and would really need a dog who is gentle with him.

21. Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

We do not have children, but a lot of our friends do and there are a lot of kids on our street of all ages. Its very important to us for the dog to get along with kids.

22. Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

We own our house.

23. What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

We want to avoid breeds that could be banned, but our city does not have restrictions.

24. What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

We live in the Great Lakes area and it is moderate in the summer but gets very cold in the winter with lots of snow. Summers only get into the 90’s for a couple weeks and winters are usually in the teens and we regularly get below zero.

Additional Information and Questions

25. Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.

26. Feel free to ask any questions below.

Hey there! I'm someone who has always wanted to have a dog, though my family never owned one. Finally financial secure, got my shit together, finished college, living by myself and ready to take the leap.

1. Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?* No experience. Had a housemate who had a border collie but I rarely had to take care of it.
2. Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a [reputable breeder]( http://ownresponsibly.blogspot.com/2011/07/identifying-reputable-breeder.html)?* No preference
3. Describe your ideal dog.* A low maintenance healthy dog, easily trainable. Calm, but loving, one that would follow you around the house. Emotional support. Not loud or aggressive in any way. Doesn't need more than an hour of walk (and active play) around the neighborhood most days but enjoys a 5-10 mile hike on a weekend or a camping trip. Ok with being left alone for 8 hours just a few days a week (I work from home 3 days a week, mostly stay home on weekends). It should be ok staying with a dog sitter for a week if I'm traveling.
4. What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?* Love border collies even though I think they would be too active for me but I like sheepdogs in general. Italian Greyhound sound nice but seem to not be good at being left alone.
5. What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?* Obedience training, good behaviour being off leash on hikes.
6. Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?* no.**Care Commitments**
7. How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?* It's hard to answer, but I spend about an hour every day outside that I'd spend with the dog. Plus whatever else the dog requires. I don't plan to have my life revolve around the dog but I have a solid amount of time that I would dedicate to it.
8. How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?* About an hour of walking plus whatever games the dog likes. I have a small dog park nearby plus a regular park.
9. How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?* I have the money to take it to a professional if needed. Can do brushing and whatnot by myself, but def don't want any breed that requires advanced grooming. The less the better.**Personal Preferences**
10. What size dog are you looking for?* Medium sized? Something a weak skinny 5'6" adult can manage without a problem. But generally no preference.
11. How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?* Little to average barking. Little to average shedding. No slobber!
12. How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?* Important. Won't do it in the city, but out in the nature.**Dog Personality and Behavior**
13. Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?* snuggly
14. Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?* eager-to-please
15. How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?* Friendly
16. Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?* No
17. Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?* Aggression. Destruction of property. Excessive barking when I'm not home. Stubborness in general.**Lifestyle**
18. How often and how long will the dog be left alone?* Up to 5-8 hours a few days a week. Up to a week with a dog sitter a couple of times a year.
19. What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?* Live alone.
20. Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?* I have fish. No plans for other pets.
21. Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?* No.
22. Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?* I rent. No restriction on pets.
23. What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?* Los Angeles. Not aware of any laws.
24. What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?* Up to 95F in the summer. 65F in the winter.**Additional Information and Questions**
25. Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.* Currently live in a fairly roomy 1BD apartment. I live by myself, spend lots of time by myself working from home and I'm looking for a companion to keep me company and provide emotional support. But I would also like a dog that can accompany me on occasional outdoor adventures, while not getting destructive if it has to stay by itself or doesn't get a ton of exercise every day. Should be smart (I'm not one of those people who finds dumb dogs adorable), well train-able. I'm financially secure so that is not a limiting factor in any way.
26. Feel free to ask any questions below.

Suggest a dog breed for me please!

1. Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

• No, my family had a havanese and I personally have had an american bulldog mix

2. Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?

• Reputable breeder

3. Describe your ideal dog.

• A goofy dog, ideally large, energy for long walks (I go out for 3+ hours a day and would like to bring them with me as often as possible), loving and loyal

4. What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

• I love mastiffs, st. Bernards and retrievers but am open to whatever breed fits my lifestyle most. I love big dogs as they make me feel safe as a small woman and love the temperment of well bred golden retrievers (labs and poodles aren't really my vibe).

5. What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

I would like to be able to take them on big homes and group walks so definitely lots of leash training and recall, I have anxiety so I would like to work on DPT with them ( have done this with my bully mix), I am pregnant so lots of training/socialization with how to behave with children and overall obedience

6. Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

• no

Care Commitments

7. How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

• Im a dog walker so will ideally be bringing them out on my walks each day and hanging with them the rest of the day. They shouldn't need to be alone more than a few hours a day and am happy to do training and games every day

8. How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?

• 3+ hours of walking each day and playing in the back yard. Not a fan of dog parks but will have plenty of playdates for them if they're into it!

9. How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

• we are willing to do all of this as much as needed but would prefer a dog that doesn’t shed excessively.

Personal Preferences

10. What size dog are you looking for?

• Ideally very large (90lbs+) but am flexible if the temperment/lifestyle is more suited with smaller

11. How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

• medium level shedding okay, slobber is no biggie, and not too much barking is ideal but can work with them if it's the right breed

12. How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

• Not very. I follow leash laws and am happy to use a long lead if need be

Dog Personality and Behavior

13. Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

• snuggly!

14. Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

• eager to please but can do it’s own thing too.

15. How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?

• an alert bark is okay when someone is at the door but we would like our dog to be friendly to strangers once they interact with eachother.

16. Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

• I have experience with reactivity and can work through it with them if need be, but would prefer to not need to.

17. Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

*not that I can think of.

Lifestyle

18. How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

• I’d say a few hours if we're going for dinner, an event, etc. but would probably bring them with us for the most part.

19. What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?

• both my husband and I will train together although I will be with the pup the most.

20. Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?

• I have one American bulldog mix who is dog friendly and respectful of their space

21. Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

• Yes, I am currently pregnant. Would like to get them once the baby is here so they can grow up together.

22. Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

• we rent now, there are no breed restrictions.

23. What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

• Southern Canada

24. What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

• Can go as low as -20 (rare) in winter and can go as high at +30 in the summer

Additional Information and Questions

25. Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.

• No additional information.

26. Feel free to ask any questions below.

I would like to know breeds you all would suggest!

Edit: just to respond to a few of the comments we are planning to wait until the baby is a few years old. I'd like to find the breed now though so I can research and find a good breeder as I'm sure theyll have a wait list.

Thank you for all the thoughtful advice ♥️

Does your dog turn his head when he hears an odd noise? Does your dog bury their food with your pants? This is the thread to ask why.

Please keep this thread to non-medical issues only.

This thread is where to get emotional support with all things related to death and illness with your dog. This is also a thread where you can seek assistance with deciding whether it is indeed time.

This is not a thread to seek anecdotes with medical care. All rules involving medical questions and anecdotes remains the same for this thread.

If your dog has passed, you can still post here for emotional support or you can create your own thread tagged with one of the RIP flairs. Be sure to review the rules of our flair guide. It is up to you how you choose to grieve.

**Introduction**

1)	Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

* No, two family dogs. A boxer/sharpie mix and Italian greyhound. Also, 3 years prior experience as a vet tech. 

2)	Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a [reputable breeder]( http://ownresponsibly.blogspot.com/2011/07/identifying-reputable-breeder.html)?

* No preference 

3)	Describe your ideal dog.

* Friendly, loyal, chill but down for weekend hikes 

4)	What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

* Golden Retriever because they're gorgeous and fiercely loyal. Boxers for the butt wiggle and personality. Shiba Inu for thier foxy face and curly tail. 

5)	What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

* walk off leash and not chase my cats, haha

6) Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

* No

**Care Commitments**

  7) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

* 4 - 8 hours 

8) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average?  What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?  

* 2 hours on weekdays. Walks to dog park. 4 hours on weekends with hikes, lakes, and seasonal outdoor exploration 

9)	How much regular brushing are you willing to do?  Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home?  If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

* Brushing up to 3x a week is okay. Comfortable with ear cleaning and nail trims (I trim my cats nails at home). Don't trust myself with clippers, willing to take dog to groomers up to one a month. 

**Personal Preferences**

10)	What size dog are you looking for?

* Anything over 10lbs (basically just don't want a Chihuahua) 

11) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

* Minimal shedding and slobber, less barking as my partner and I work from home 

12) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

* Very. Frequent a home with lots of unfenced woods and doggy friend where I would eventual like my future dog to explore 

**Dog Personality and Behavior**

13) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

* Either is fine. Please note dog will be discouraged from jumping on furnite (couch, beds, etc) but I'll roll around and cuddle with a pup on the floor in a heartbeat 

14) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

* Either. Simply looking forward to a greeting at the door.

15) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard?  How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?  

* With reproach and restraint. I would appreciate a dog that asses the situation. Once I invite someone into my home I hope that they would open up but I would also like a companion who will help me feel safe when we take our many walks together (28yr old female). 

16) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

* No, unsuitable for off-leash. 

17) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

* No. 

**Lifestyle**

18) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

* 4 hours max. 2 - 5 times a week. Occasionally will need to board. 

19) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog? 

* Partner prefers minimal shedding/drooling/barking. Will walk dog maybe twice a week lol

20) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets?  What breed or type of animal are they?

* two cats 

21) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

* nope

22) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

* No

23) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

* Durham, NC. No restrictions 

24) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

* 42F - 80F

**Additional Information and Questions**

25) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.

* Potential longer car rides on weekends to a variety of hiking spots ☺️ followed by a brewery and snacks 

26) Feel free to ask any questions below.

I seen a wifi doggy door bell . I wanted to know have anyone ever used one and know how long does trainging take ? I have a German shepherd and boxer.

So, I've been facing an issue with my 8 mo puppy. A week ago I've finished the transition to a more expensive brand of kibble that contains much better ingredients, however I'm assuming the puppy doesn't find it as tastier as the previous, cheaper brand, because he's been refusing to eat at the regular meal times. He will eat them little by little through the day, as opposed to 2 meals at 7am/7pm, but that messes up his potty routine big time.

I was able to find a good brand of canned food for puppies that he does find very tasty and will eat his kibble normally if I mix a small spoon of this wet food in it, just enough to coat the grains, but the thing is that a can of food outlasts it's open expiration time.

I'm wondering if there are more efficient ways to store an open can of dog wet food. Currently I put the whole can inside an airtight container in the coldest spot of my refrigerator, but I don't trust it for longer than 3 days open, even if doesn't smells funky.

Note: About him being picky on his kibble, I'd try a different flavor but while adult dogs have many options, puppies do not, especially food containing good ingredients. At least where I live, so I'm stuck with trying to make him like this one more.

I have a 2 year old german shepherd mix who may be the laziest dog i’ve ever met. She has hardly any interest in toys and balls. For exercise she goes for walks but Id love to be able to incorporate some type of fetch or chase. She’s great off leash, so for now, I toss a treat far away, then walk away from her and call her to me. She loves to run around. Are there any toys that can be thrown that would dispense a treat or have some type of food component that may get her more into fetch?

I know this is talked about a lot but I got a new puppy. Lab and Australian Sheppard mix. He’s 4 months old and we started him on the Hills Science Diet but he’s recently stopped eating it. We’ve introduced healthy toppers/standalone snacks such as carrots, blue berries, etc.

I would like a recommendation on a new kibble that’s healthy, protein based/limited ingredient and doesn’t cost $100 per two weeks like these new farmers dog brand type stuff. Not opposed to raw food but don’t want to pay $30 a meal essentially.

Stupid question, cause I think it's ok, but should I let my pup bite me? I'm just hoping he won't get used to biting things and people. I'm pretty sure it's a good enrichment and it help their teeth.

EDIT: thx y'all, especially faceless_alias. Don't worry, he doesn't bite hard as he's just playing and he never hurts. I also shove him away if it's too much, and he got used to shoving=stop playing. ❤️

I have a 36’ crate for medium sized dog but I’d like something longer because he loves to stretch. However, a crate taller than 25 inches won’t work for me. Are there any crates that have a longer length but a shorter height?

I read somewhere that if you don’t rotate proteins in your dogs food (one month chicken based food, another month salmon, turkey, lamb, etc) that they will develop allergies to that over-fed protein.

Can someone more knowledgeable let me know if this has any truth to it?

I’ve been wanting to switch to Hill’s from Purina Pro Plan due to how many good things I’ve heard about their sensitive digestion line but it’s all chicken-based with no protein rotation options.

Any advice or insight is appreciated! Thank you!