Thinking of getting a dog for DH (LONG)

[Disney Debbie]

First let me preface - DH had a little mutty dog that someone dumped out in front of the radio station years ago and he brought home. She was obviously mistreated (she had shoestring tied around her neck) and even though we had her for the next 9 years she was always fearful and nervous. She especially hated little boys! Anyway - I hated that dog! I know, I'm a terrible person - but she was not housetrained when we got her and the best we could do was get her to at least pee MOST of the time on the paper in the kitchen. HOWEVER - as often as not it was on the carpet! We tried to train her, we tried to take her for walks - but she'd turn into a stone if you put a leash around her neck (I'm assuming having to do with the shoestring trauma) so we never could do that. I can't tell you how many times I'd take her outside and she'd stare at me until I'd let her back in and THEN she'd pee on the carpet!!!! But the dog was CRAZY about Bill and vice versa. Anyway - she died the end of July. I asked DH if he'd want another dog and he said no back then. He said he didn't want to get that attached again. But I really think he's missing having one. I wouldn't mind getting one if we could get it as a puppy - when we could train it and know it had never been mistreated. But I'm not a dog person - so if I got it, it would be HIS dog. So I guess my question is - should I go with what he said a few months ago and just leave things alone? Or should I surprise him with a dog - that will then be his responsibility?

 

[kinlaw6450]

I wouldn't surprise him with a dog. Maybe ask again??

 

[clutter]

Frankly, a decent breeder would not allow a puppy to be sold under those circumstances. (Good test to use when you're looking, actually!)

 

[Serena]

I wouldn't surprise him at all. Especially if it's going to be his dog, he needs to pick it out, he needs to decide if he even wants one.

You are being very nice, but this has to come from him.

 

[Disney Debbie]

Aargh - I've posted this twice some how - sorry - could a moderator maybe combine them or something?


I wouldn't buy a dog - there's too many out there for free!

 

[Charlieinthebox]

How about surprising him with a puppy leash and collar one weekend and offer tospend the day looking for a new dog? Most places will not let you adopt a dog to "surprise" someone, and your whole family should have a hand in the choosing of the new member.

Good luck in your search.