OT: Looking to buy a dog for dad....HELP

[ChisJo]

Ok....I know this is isn't Disney related, but I know that lots of you own dogs, and we need advice.

My father is turning 60 this year and we are thinking about getting him a dog. We have always owned a cat, so this is a new experience for us. Also, there are certain criteria that must come with the dog, so this is where I need your help.

1) My dad needs a lap dog - he will be restrained to a wheelchair within the next couple of years, so a lap dog is a must.

2) A dog that's loyal (are there any that are not)

3) A dog that may not mind being alone for a couple hours

4) A dog that can be litter or paper trained

5) A dog that doesn't mind cats (my mom cannot give up the cat)

6) A dog that doesn't need alot of walking (seeing as how my father is going to be in a wheelchair)

7) A dog that has shorter fur or has hair instead of fur.

8) A dog that doesn't YAP (this is a must - it will drive him crazy)

Ok, as I read this, I realize that I am describing a cat , but he has always wanted a dog and we want to give him one as he may only have another 5 years with us.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated....Thanks.

Jo

 

[mbb]

our Shih Tzu, Rufus, last month (Yes, named for the naked mole rat from Kim Possible), and so far, he's all of those things that you described..

He's a wonderful little dog - he was the baby of his litter, and as of today at almost 4 months old, just over 4 pounds, and a little bigger than DH's size 10 sneaker

Teething is our biggest issue, and the occasional potty accident, but when you're talking a teaspoon or so of liquid, not so bad!! Definitely paper trained, and we're working on the crate training. He sleeps in the laundry room, with his blankie, toys and free access from his crate to the papers.

We're beginning training with him as a therapy dog next month, and so far, he's really getting the sit, stay, and release words - we go through lots of treats!!

He goes practically everywhere with us, harnessed and leashed...loves the car, but is fine to be at home as well. The longest we've left him - during the day - has been 5 hours. I left him his Kong, and a few new toys, and he was fine.

It's a full time job, and one that for our family - was long thought and planned...and we're seeing huge benefits

Hope that answers some of your questions

 

[tone.def]

How odd, we went through this same thing last year with my grandma. I got her a Jack Russell terrier and it's the best companion (aside from my grandpa) she could ever ask for!

 

[kellyla]

We have only ever had large dogs so I cant be of any help to you.But just a suggestion.Check out your local shelter or rescue.You just be be able to find your dad the perfect dog there and and help one find its forever home.

 

[Belle1997]

Well we have 3 dogs but our little one is an American Eskimo Pappillion mix. She is very adorable. Loves to be held, very ggod a playing and entertaining herself. Though she does have some separation anxiety when she was a pup but once she was old enough for a peanut butter kong she waits anxiously to get it and mommy and daddy leave the house with no problem. Slow to house break but thats because she would rather go on paper inside the house. She can be a yapper though and we are still working on this and as she gets older she is getting better. But she is so cute it is hard not to laugh at her while she is trying to express her opinion to us. A lot of small dogs can be yappy I think they vocalize to make up for the size. Good luck finding the right dog. Each has its own personality but do bring a lot of joy.

 

[tinafromidaho]

I am going to second a shih tzu. They have hair instead of fluff so they are easy on allergies. You do have to get them a hair cut about every 8 weeks if you don't want to brush them. Ours is 2 years old and loves to snuggle and can be left alone for as long as 6 hours without having any problems (read accidents) they are very loyal and we thought ours was mute at first because she never would make a sound. She will bark once in a while if she's playing with one of us but a yapper she's not. Ours weighs 12 - 13 pounds.
And she loves cats. Depending on what your dad gets for a wheelchair or electric vehichle, they are just the right size to ride in a basket on it.

 

[ChisJo]

Thanks everyone....this is really hard for us to make this decision. On one hand, he will be very happy to get the dog, but I think on the other he will realize that this dog will probably be the last pet he will ever own. That is why we want the perfect pet for him.

Keep the suggestions coming....we need to make a good choice!!

Joline

 

[digskat]

Have you thought of a cocker spaniel? I have had one since I was little, they are small enough that they can cuddle, we keep ours clipped short. Any Cocker I have had hate to be alone, they constantly follow you around the house. Our Cocker Tamika never barks, she is nine and we love her to bits. She loves our Cat Luther and thinks the Guinea pigs are her babies. We got her from a kennel that was changing their blood lines. She meek and mild but she has a wonderful disposition and great with our kids. She likes little walks and enjoys playing out in our fenced yard. Best of luck finding your dad a dog. I suggest your local shelter or pet rescue, you quite often find a hidden gem. An older dog may be a better companion than a puppy. www.adoptapet.lucknow.on.ca this link is our local pet rescue but I know you can find other areas on it as well. Best Wishes Kat

 

[Sandy22]

Puppies require a lot of work. It sounds like an adult dog might be the best thing. You should check out what's at your local shelter.

I don't understand he should have a lap dog if he's in a wheelchair. A larger dog can come and rest his head on your dad's lap and a larger dog could act as a service dog to help your dad stand up, pick up items, etc. Maybe you can call a local CNIB and see what they do with their guide-dog ''flunkies''.

 

[SnowyPrincesses:)]

I think you shoul narrow the search by using everyone's suggestions, find a couple of good breeders in the area and check the shelter but ultimately let your father have the choice, looking at all those animals is sure to be a great memory for the two of you and will ensure that you find him exactly what HE wants. The bond seems to form between people and animals so much quicker if they chose each other. Animal personalities are as distinct as human ones by making your father part of the decision you'll also be giving him a chance to be independent which if he is nearing being wheelchair bound can be a great self esteem lifter.
Good luck with your choice!

 

[damo]

I also suggest an adult dog. Since you say your Dad may only have 5 years left, it will be very hard on the dog when he goes. Watch the papers for dogs whose owners need to move or need to give the dog away for some reason. Rescue groups are an excellent source of information. Have you looked at www.petfinder.com? If you put in Alberta and adult or senior dog as your choices there are many that come up.

Here is a cute one!
http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?ac...094d-app4&display=&preview=&row=0&tmpl=&stat=

 

[dsneygirl]

I also suggest an adult dog. Since you say your Dad may only have 5 years left, it will be very hard on the dog when he goes. Watch the papers for dogs whose owners need to move or need to give the dog away for some reason. Rescue groups are an excellent source of information. Have you looked at www.petfinder.com? If you put in Alberta and adult or senior dog as your choices there are many that come up.

Here is a cute one!
http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?ac...094d-app4&display=&preview=&row=0&tmpl=&stat=

That dog is so cute! We have a bichon/poodle mix and he is so affectionate and loving. Also non shedding.

 

[damo]

That dog is so cute! We have a bichon/poodle mix and he is so affectionate and loving. Also non shedding.

And his name is Buddy!

 

[Eskie_Lover]

Belle1997 - Mandy is soooo cute! I have an American Eskimo, and she is my baby - I love her with all my heart (even though she can be a yappy little thing, who can wrap me around her little paw!).

I second the idea of getting a rescue dog. All my animals (2 dogs & 3 cats) have been rescues, and I will never do it another way. Getting a slightly older dog has many advantages - you are giving an animal a second chance, you are getting a dog that is already housetrained, and beyond the puppy chewing stage. The dog also bonds very closely to you - especially if they have come from an abusive, or negligent owner - they really know and appreciate it when someone treats them with love and respect.\

I also think you should include him in the decision. I lucked out - my baby was a house warming present, but their second choice was a breed of dog that I really don't like. My sister-in-law later saw a dog she thought was perfect for her Mom, but when her Mom went to see it, she connected instantly with another dog. Sometimes there is just a special connection between a person and an animal - please let your Dad have the chance of making that connection.

Sandra

 

[Laurajean1014]

Rescue groups are an excellent source of information. Have you looked at www.petfinder.com?
Here is a cute one!
http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?ac...094d-app4&display=&preview=&row=0&tmpl=&stat=

Excellent suggestion!

 

[Laurajean1014]

Buddy
Dog
Bichon Frise,Poodle Mix

Size: Small
Age: Senior
Sex: Male
I.D: Foster Home

Notes: Buddy is a very sweet gentle quiet boy who is a darling and completely well mannered! He is about 8 years old. Gets along well with others.


This pet is: up to date with routine shots, already house trained, altered

He sounds perfect

 

[damo]

Who can resist this face?

 

[ChisJo]

Thanks everyone....I have some talking to do with my siblings, but I really like the idea of an adult dog. I will keep you all updated.

Jo

 

[isla bonita]

We also have a rescue dog that is a full bred Bichon. She is a love. Best thing no teething. Got to love that. She is happiest right by our side. Not a yapper either. But very protective when some one comes to the door she lets us know. Check the pounds for any dogs. They are generally adult dogs amd have calmed down some.