I'm getting another puppy!! :D Thoughts please...

[Puppy]

Hello all

I'm not sure I've posted in here more than once before, but here goes...

Firstly, I must say, I can't stress how this is SO SO exciting for me.

I cried every birthday and Christmas as child because I wanted a dog so badly,

but we never had one as a family pet

The two dogs that I've owned have been canine Puppy's mother with my ex, who we adopted when she was 18 months old, (I had to leave her when we split

) and of course my beloved Canine Puppy who I watched being born, and who has been with me for just coming up to ten years this month

SO, I have never gone puppy shopping before

My criteria:
* Must be smaller than an alsatian

I'd love another big dog but it's just not practical in my mothers house (in center of town) and with one biggie already... So am resigned to a medium sized breed.
* Must be athletic enough to go running and riding with me, but not go stir crazy on the days that isn't possible and they just get a couple of trips to the yard/park.
* Have an amicable temperament that will get on well and fit in with our existing family: i.e Puppy, pussycat and the horses

* Sleek coated so won't bring too much mud home from the yard

* Generally a breed with few inherent problems. I am ruling out labs as Puppy's hips have been great a worry to me and I just don't think they're the breed for me.....

SO, *braces herself to be told she must be mad*

I am fairly certain I want a beagle

My research so far suggests that one would suit all the above criteria and the only concern being that they aren't the easiest to train... However, from what I understand researching them, and from talking with vet friends, so long as you are firm and put in the effort with them, then obedience isn't necessarily a problem (especially helped as I intend to get a bitch).

I am home from uni for some time now, so am intending to put much effort into puppy training classes etc.

I am pretty proud of how well trained canine puppy is; she gets complimented *everywhere* that she goes with me or my mother for her impeccable behaviour

but I know there are few breeds as easy to train as alsatians and another dog may be more challenging....

So, all in all, despite all my years with Puppy I am nowhere near as broadly educated as most of you folks when it comes to dog ownership, and I'd appreciate your feedback on whether you spot any major flaws in my current and I *think* decided choice, or if you've any glaring obvious alternative suggestions of breeds I should consider?

Furthermore, can anyone recommend a good reputable beagle breeder not a million miles from Cambridge who may have a choice of bitches any time soon?

Many many thanks in advance, from one super excited Puppy, canine Puppy and family.

xxx

 

[Sooty]

Without wishing to rain on your parade, Beagles rarely make good pets. Like Foxhounds, they are bred to do a job. Having been owned by a JRT for 16 years, I would not want to go back to a working breed again. My first dog was a GSD, whom I took to training classes and who was an absolute gentleman. I was lulled into thinking I was a good owner and trainer, but so much depends on the breed and temperament! All breeds vary, so we can only talk in generalisations. I think you should have one of MFH's Blurchets, as they will probably have most of the qualities you are looking for. Am working on Mac on that very issue at the moment!

 

[Bess]

I agree with you Sooty, sorry Puppy I'm not convinced that a beagle is the best choice. Park Ranger asked the same question last week see here and you could do a HHO search for other opinions on beagles.

I'm delighted for you that you are getting a puppy, I got a male golden cocker spaniel pup about 5 weeks ago, he's 19 weeks old now and an absolute joy. So good luck.

 

[Blackhawk]

I'm biased as I've owned two, but I would recommend a Toller.

Full name is the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever. My OH and I have a one year old uncut dog.

They're renowned for being highly intelligent and loving the outdoors. I've owned two now and they are a breed that needs to be walked everyday, but are also happy to snooze the rest of the day. (which they do on their back, legs in the air

) Also, they love playing and learning. To a Toller, 20mins of training is as much exercise as a walk.

Mine gets on with cats, horses, strangers etc. They are a very loving breed who want to be friends with everyone.

Mine is very quiet, and rarely barks unless something startles him but Tollers have been known to have a 'scream' which is confined to their breed. However only about 1/4 of Tollers ever make this noise.

They are HIGHLY intelligent though. Great, because if you train them they will be 100% loyal and listen to everything you say. However, they are sneaky and clever and if they think they can get one over on you, then they will!

Toller owners always recommend that you meet a toller or a breeder before taking the plunge, as they aren't a very well known breed.

If you want to know more:

http://www.thetollerclub.org.uk/

 

[showjumpinglover]

what about a border collie. they are generaly easy to train, sociable and (i think) can fit into a family life fairly easily. could be wrong about the last point though

 

[smallbutgreat]

We were very keen on getting a beagle, because OH had adored the one he grew up with and we also thought it might be a great companion when walking out with my daughter as she rode (six years ago now, she don't need or want that now!).

Did a lot of research, even talking to the then president of the beagle society. She pointed that that they were not renowned for good recall, and (fatefully) suggested we go look at a Dalmatian! Very glad we didn't stick with the beagle idea ... (but Dals are only for the very special people!)

 

[merlinsquest]

Get a standard Schnauzer.... i have a mini, bit think you might find them a bit small....... Oh bugger, they are a bit hairy too..... but you can clip them and best of all they dont moult!!!

 

[GinaB]

Ruling out a labrador. How could you.

Look at this wee face, how could you say no to her?

I like working bred cocker spaniels, lots and lots of energy. Can go for miles, although their coat may be an issue?

 

[Puppy]

[ QUOTE ]
W I think you should have one of MFH's Blurchets, as they will probably have most of the qualities you are looking for. Am working on Mac on that very issue at the moment!

[/ QUOTE ]

WHAT is a blurchet??

I'm guessing part lurcher, which despite my friend breeding some VERY cute ones, I'm not a huge fan of....

sorry!

 

[Puppy]

Thanks, they look lovely, but too big and hairy

It's bad enough having one large dog bringing mud home from the yard to my mother's house, I don't think I can get her to agree to another such large and hairy one....

Otherwise there would be plenty of breeds I'd want and I'd be spoilt for choice, doh!

 

[Puppy]

Definitely no to a border collie - IMO, and the vets I was discussing this with the other day agrees, they're wonderful working dogs, but not pets and too snappy!

 

[Elle123]

How about a spaniel. or if u don't want the potential for the herited (soz bout spelling) mabye a cross. A springador, Labradoodle, skys the limit!
Luv Elle
x

 

[Puppy]

Well the poor recall is exactly my concern, but at the same time what I am preparing myself for.... I can't think of any other breed of dog that fits my criteria, but offers a great level of obedience.

I'd quite like a dalmatian but I know my mother will say NO way, TOO big!!

In fact what I'd really love is a Weimaraner, but I don't think I can convince her

 

[Puppy]

They're very cute I agree, but not my Mother's cup of tea I'm afraid...

 

[Sooty]

Erm... Lurcher x Basset!

I cannot wait to see how they turn out... Mac reckons they'll have long legs at the front and short ones at the back LOL!

 

[Puppy]

LOL! I just don't see myself as a lab owner.... Plus, I'm a sucker for THIS little face more than anything....

Ahhh

This is such a hard decision...

 

[Puppy]

Ear/leg ratio - the mind boggles!!

Seriously though, I thought that bassets were renownedly obstinate, and that lurchers are as reputed for running with a scent and having a poor recall as a beagle is....

Oh, I hope this isn't going to be as complicated as horse shopping

 

[GinaB]

Beagles are adorable, but like you and labs not a breed I'd get

My preferred breeds would all be working bred types

The likes of cockers and springers can all be clipped down to save on muddiness.

How about any terrier types? Or would they be too small?

 

[ihatework]

I really wouldn't go for a beagle, especially if you want a running/riding companion - you'll just spend all your time running after the damn thing!

What about airedale terrier, working cocker spaniel, boxer (okay so could be a bit lively!) or possibly just keep an eye open at local rescues for a nice cross-bred

A friend has had a couple of outstanding australian shepherds, but you have the hair to contend with those!

 

[GinaB]

Ben_and_Jerrys, I would be concerned about getting a boxer as do they not tend to have heart conditions and not live too long?

 

[Sooty]

Oh yes! Also, short haired breeds tend to shed more than long or wire coated breeds, but not as much as those with an undercoat. Confused yet?

 

[Puppy]

[ QUOTE ]
I really wouldn't go for a beagle, especially if you want a running/riding companion - you'll just spend all your time running after the damn thing!

[/ QUOTE ]

LOL! Well whatever the dog, it will have to run on the lead because of where I would be running - even a dog as well heel trained as canine Puppy goes on the lead there...

I SO miss being able to run/bike/ride with her but she only does pottering about these days...

[ QUOTE ]
What about airedale terrier, working cocker spaniel, boxer (okay so could be a bit lively!) or possibly just keep an eye open at local rescues for a nice cross-bred

[/ QUOTE ]

DEFINITELY not a boxer.

Sorry, I know some friends of mine are massive fans of the breed but a local farmer insisted on keeping some very aggressive ones which attacked me and Star more than once out hacking - I kept having to call the police, the first two were destroyed after attacking multiple people in one day, and after I complained about the third then he FINALLY learnt to keep it under control. It's not my kind of breed and I know my mother wouldn't go for one either....

SO,

I've just looking at local ads of cross breeds now. Have seen some springer spaniel x patterdales which sounds quite promising.

I'd appreciate thoughts please?

(My cousin has a patterdale x terrier and he is a right little dude

)

[ QUOTE ]
A friend has had a couple of outstanding australian shepherds, but you have the hair to contend with those!

[/ QUOTE ]

Lovely dogs, but too big/ too much hair - Hence however perfect canine Puppy is, I can't get another GSD

Thank you for all the advice folks, keep in coming - Springer x patterdale?? Thoughts??

H x

 

[GinaB]

My friend has a wee Patterdale cross JR type thing going on and he is fab! Stubborn wee git though

Interesting cross with a springer, but I loooove springers. You will end up with one energetic little guy on your hands! (Are you going for a bitch or dog?)

 

[kibob]

Beagles are lovely but only if you are happy to see your dog for 5 minutes at the start of the walk and if you are lucky, catch a brief glimpse mid-way through and then, maybe - four hours later - meet up again to return home

Not had much experience of Patterdale but have heard they are notoriously tricky to house train. Spaniel x Patt would be one lively little person - great fun though I would imagine.

I would keep looking for cross breeds through the local papers/vets etc.

(you could actually do with a Ridgeback - just don't tell your mum how big they grow

) x

 

[Puppy]

[ QUOTE ]
My friend has a wee Patterdale cross JR type thing going on and he is fab! Stubborn wee git though

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes, my cousin has a patterdale x wire haired terrier, except he is smooth coated. He is a total dude; happy enough to live in central London and sometimes be restricted to lead walking, but does 10 mile runs with my uncle when in the countryside, travels to France with us on hols and pesters us to the throw the ball endlessly *rolls eyes* All in all a very happy-go-lucky, amicable chappy

his only flaw is when you take him bushbeating with my uncle's shoot then he can get overexcited and then his re-call goes out the window and he disappears....

Canine Puppy was excellent at bushbeating; even adopted a gundog mouth for fetching - made all the gamesman gobsmacked!!

They'd never seen a GSD like that before. Ahhh, happy memories, I was SO proud of her.

So sad she can't do things like that anymore...

[ QUOTE ]
Interesting cross with a springer, but I loooove springers. You will end up with one energetic little guy on your hands! (Are you going for a bitch or dog?)

[/ QUOTE ]

DEFINITELY a bitch

I do quite like springers - have known a few. Do you think the combo would be very trainable??

Do you think they would be likely to need/suit clipping?

H x

 

[Puppy]

[ QUOTE ]
(you could actually do with a Ridgeback - just don't tell your mum how big they grow

) x

[/ QUOTE ]

LMAO!! I would LOVE a ridgeback. My ex had one, and I would certainly love to own one one day, but I don't think my mother would fall for it

We are quite keen on the idea of springer x patterdale

Going to make further inquiries

*fingers crossed they're not out of bitches yet*

H x

 

[GinaB]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
My friend has a wee Patterdale cross JR type thing going on and he is fab! Stubborn wee git though

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes, my cousin has a patterdale x wire haired terrier, except he is smooth coated. He is a total dude; happy enough to live in central London and sometimes be restricted to lead walking, but does 10 mile runs with my uncle when in the countryside, travels to France with us on hols and pesters us to the throw the ball endlessly *rolls eyes* All in all a very happy-go-lucky, amicable chappy

his only flaw is when you take him bushbeating with my uncle's shoot then he can get overexcited and then his re-call goes out the window and he disappears....

Canine Puppy was excellent at bushbeating; even adopted a gundog mouth for fetching - made all the gamesman gobsmacked!!

They'd never seen a GSD like that before. Ahhh, happy memories, I was SO proud of her.

So sad she can't do things like that anymore...

[ QUOTE ]
Interesting cross with a springer, but I loooove springers. You will end up with one energetic little guy on your hands! (Are you going for a bitch or dog?)

[/ QUOTE ]

DEFINITELY a bitch

I do quite like springers - have known a few. Do you think the combo would be very trainable??

Do you think they would be likely to need/suit clipping?

H x

[/ QUOTE ]

My friends was actually a rescue, but he is a total star. I love him! He has a smooth coat though

He does like to think he always right though, but then again with being a boy, they always think they're right

I know our old Windsor used to think that was the case

Bit like the one you know, I wouldn't say his recall is great!

I am very impressed by Canine Puppy and retrieiving! I'm sure that was a sight to see

Although I think I'll stick with my labs for retrieving

(my old girl is now semi-retired so she is living a life of luxury

)

Bitches are much easier to work with aren't they? I much prefer to keep them

Well as Ravenwood says, a labrador is born half trained, a springer dies half trained

Seriously though, I find springers terrible on lead but out working they are amazing! They can go on for hours and nothing will stop them.
I know a lot of boys who use them for beating/retrieving and find them very easy to work with. They just aim to please. In regards to clipping, my aunt always used to give hers a number 2 all over and it kept her nice and tidy, especially when out over the fields.

I daresay the cross would be a nice little size as well, not too big but not too small either.

I think you should phone up on enquire more

 

[Puppy]

I have phoned!! Am awaiting emailed pics of the bitches

Going to be faaaaar too excited to sit still in the saddle this afternoon

H x

 

[GinaB]

Ohhhh post piccies when you get them!

I love puppy shopping!

 

[Hols180]

get a working cocker, how could you resist! (any excuse to post a cute photo!)

hehe