I Would Love to Have a Dog

@Boraxo (225)
United States
November 8, 2008 12:31pm CST
For many months now I have wanted to get a dog to enjoy life with. I am a single man and work for a living and I just can not come to grips with having a dog and having to leave him/her inside all day by theirselves while I am working. I would like a puppy to raise but do not want to come home to a mess everyday because I was not there to train them. I live in an apartment so the dog could not just run free as he could if I had a yard to allow him to stay in. I even thought about having a lady friend come from Florida and stay just to have someone take care of the dog when I work.......now that is just wrong. I suppose I could go to the pound and get a dog that is already house broken but still would have to leave them alone all day. I guess just not a good decision right now but I still want a dog and will find a way to make it happen. The perfect deal would be one of those work at home success stories spammed all over the net but I am too skeptical for that, so back to the drawing board.
3 people like this
28 responses
@Wtflux (5)
8 Nov 08
I think that you could have a dog if you wanted, it all depends on breed so do some internet research, i think that a small dog would suit you best, a bad point is tho that a dog should have a backgarden, if you have a balcony try putting down some fake grass for the dog to do its buisness, my choice would be to get a puppy from birth so it can grow up in its own space and get used to it, lots of walks are necessary. Good luck!
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
9 Nov 08
A puppy would be the best for me I agree and would bring out the kid in this old man, I recently bought a camcorder and I could film him or her as they grow I think that would be alot of fun not to mention playing ball and fetch.
1 person likes this
@albto_568 (1268)
• Costa Rica
10 Nov 08
Hello Boraxo: I aplaude your decition to have a dog, and I can understand your concerns, I am a dog lover too, and I know it can be a mess sometimes, but it compensates with the love and frienship you get on return. If you live in an apartment, maybe the best for you is a small dog, already trained, so, you can go to the pound and pick up one, this way you may find a real friend, thankful and loving, besides, dogs can adjust pretty well to a new situation, they are much clever and smart than most people think, and with a little patience, you can see yourself surprised with the results. So I decided to write, althoug I do not know you, to encourage to get a manĀ“s best friend, if that is what you like, you can give love and receive a lot of happines, in a small, fury paqage.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Thanks and I will be going to the pound this week and only concern I have is being a sucker for a sad face *SMILE* The more I think over this decision the more I lean towards maybe just getting a dog already trained that needs a good home. If I go this route and want another dog I always have that option.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
12 Nov 08
I went to the pound yesterday, and wanted to bring then all home. As I was looking at the last group of dogs there was a neat little pug. He had just been brought in and I went to make a claim *smile* they have a five day hold and I was informed that the dog did have an owner. I do not think the owner will let the dog stay in jail so chances are that I will not get him. However have added pugs to my list of breeds that I think I would like. I even found a lady that rescues them and if I am lucky she will have one. I understand that they are notorious for snoring, but I think I can deal with that cause I have been known to get with that program myself. I will keep visiting the pound as I was told they have new dogs quite often. There also was a beautiful cocker spaniel and well taken care of dog that I could of gotten that day but she was 30 pounds and I am limited to 25 bummer.
@Loverbear (4918)
• United States
10 Nov 08
Monica, helping with my homework - Monica decided to learn how to work my computer, while her BF decided to take a nap before his afternoon nap.
Consider a pair of smaller dogs, preferably adults. I have three mini dachshunds that were given to me. They are great company for each other and they aren't lonely. I don't have the problem with messes on the floor and they don't chew the furniture. They have bonded with me completely and are great companions and protection. I also am taking care of my sister's pit/lab mix. It is a riot to see them when they are out exercising. The doxies race under the pitts belly and between her legs. They also will sneak between her paws and steal her dinner from her! Sure, puppies are soooo cute when they are babies. Too many people will get a puppy and oooh and ahhh over it and then when it gets to be an adult they don't want it any more. There are so many dogs in the shelters who would love a home. And they wouldn't need the extensive training that a puppy would require. They would be so happy to see you come home, and will appreciate the second chance at having someone to love and have them love in return. I have the four dogs beside me sleeping as I write this. They all give me so much joy that I can't ever thank God for them enough. I took Monica to a craft show Saturday and she was a "model" for reversible dog coats that I had made. She was a dream, and was also a great sales girl too. But what was incredible is that we set her blanket on one of the containers that I brought my stuff in, and set her on it and she would alternate between sleeping and watching everyone. I'm adding a picture of her at my computer, doing all the homework that I have from going to college. Speaking of college, I not only am a full time student, but I also own my own home based business and will be gone during the day on weekends... They are so understanding that I might be gone for long periods during the day, and I don't find little surprises or chewed furniture. Another option is to hire a sitter for the dog. The service people are bonded (insured) and very loving caring individuals that will walk your dog a couple of times a day and play with them too. Before they can work for the service, they have to go through the bonding process which does a background check on the prospective employee. It is a thought. I hope that you will find it in your heart to adopt a adult dog and give it a second chance at love...rather than having another one end up as a statistic.
@Loverbear (4918)
• United States
11 Nov 08
You need to hit the 500 points to be able to add pictures to your posts. What I did was change the avatar when I wanted to show a picture of what ever. It would be such a nice touch to have a picture of your new companion as your avatar. I try to change mine periodically because of the number of companion animals I have. With three dogs and four cats that are mine, and taking care of my sister's dog the house if FULL! I am very happy with my mini Dachshunds. Their combined weight is 20 pounds...I haven't weighed the new one yet, she is too skittish for me to do much of anything but convince her that I won't cook her and eat her (LOL). I wasn't too sure when I first got the original pair in January. It took a while for us both to adjust but they are the loves of my life. I love watching them run, it's kind of like watching a hot dog on legs...and their ears are flying and they are so serious about their running. One other plus with the mini's...it's kind of disgusting but it is also something to think about...their poop is smaller than the piles that my cats lay! It's a riot when I take them outside, my sister's dog is a pit/lab mix and her poop is the size of something that would come out of an elephant, and then the doxies poop and it's like these delicate little tootsie rolls. But the big thing is if they have an accident in the house, it isn't like cleaning up after one 25 pound dog. Plus you might be able to litter box train them. I have heard that it is possible to litter box train Doxies. I haven't tried it because the cats brains are fried enough without finding the dogs in their litter box! (LOL) It's great that you are considering all angles of adopting a companion. Too many people adopt a dog and then find out that it isn't right for them and they dump it back off at the animal shelter. The people don't ever consider that it isn't the companion's fault it is the fact that they didn't think things through, they ran on emotions only and that isn't going to be right for all parties involved. I need to check my laundry before I go to bed, I have a CT scan of my lung tomorrow to see if the mass is cancerous or not. I never smoked in my life, but was exposed to my Mom's second hand smoke for 17 years...and I am paying for her smoking. If you pray, send up one for me...I am really scared witless.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Nice looking companion. Let me ask how to add pics to comments. When I try to paste the program say I do not have enough points or something along thos lines. I want to be able to share my decision and my new friend with all my friends that commented on this discussion.
@rowe0525 (677)
• China
9 Nov 08
yeah ]ann many peoplelike adog very much but i do not like it bbecause you know as a student and have little time spend on it ,we,d better not keep a dog now, but a dog is really a good friend to people and help people have a lot of fun stay together ,,i think i should keepa dog when i get old ,and i will not feel lonely any more,do u like that it is a golden opinion??
@rowe0525 (677)
• China
9 Nov 08
thank you very much dog really a good friend
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
9 Nov 08
Yes a dog is really a good friend and I am already old so maybe I will get one so I am not lonely or looney and yes I like the golden opinion *smile*
@keir3000 (296)
• Philippines
9 Nov 08
For me dogs are great pets. You can hug them, kiss them. You can walk with them and they can sleep beside you.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
The verdict still out on the sleep with you idea, but I will just have to see how that works out.
@keir3000 (296)
• Philippines
15 Nov 08
Do you have a dog now? So, how is it going?
• India
9 Nov 08
Boraxo Dog is secoend face god but i thinks apartment so the dog could accpect the god and dog to everday mess to home should be right and take care you.
• China
9 Nov 08
Well.I love dogs!! they are friendly and funny,it is good to have a dog when you are living a lonly.they understand you and nice to you. I have a dog. Next month she will be have brand new babies,hehe i like female dog.whatif you are going to decide to have a dog will you choose a female dog? take care
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
I do like female dogs a little more than the males, however I think it will be determined by the breed. I would say in general small dogs female, larger dogs male.
@trixyteddy (1070)
• India
9 Nov 08
Seems like you've already got enough and more answers to your query. I like people who are fond of animals. What touched me is the fact that you were concerned about the pup you are planning to have, even before you have it. I just know that you would take best care of your new pet. All the best.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Thanks Trixyteddy...I really am thankful for all the suggestions and support in finding the right dog. I so look forward to this and can't wait until I find my dog.
@Loverbear (4918)
• United States
10 Nov 08
I currently have three mini Dachshunds (and a Pitt/Lab mix that I am taking care of for my sister). I have found that if you are concerned about the dog getting lonely, get a pair. They keep each other company. You don't really need to worry about their being home alone, and with the small breeds you don't need to have a yard for them to run in. Also, consider an older dog that really needs a home. Puppies are wonderful and are so cute when they are small...they are adopted quickly. The animal shelters are full of adult dogs that are literally dying for homes. My three mini's are adults. They do adapt to your home and schedule, they are quick to bond, they are usually already house broken and aren't chewers. Plus they are very grateful to be adopted and accepted by someone willing to give them a second chance at love. Also they can be confined to a particular area of your apartment that is secure and comfortable for the dog. Think seriously about the option of an adult dog from the shelter...too many are being put to "sleep" because of people who get them as a puppy and then decide that they just don't want a "DOG" after all...that the dog isn't as cute as the puppy was. Another thing to think about is that there are people that "dog sit". They will come to your home and take the dogs out for a walk etc. They are bonded people which is a plus because with the bonding (or insuring) they have had a background check and they cannot have been arrested. It provides you with the peace of mind that they are going to not only take care of your dog, but they also will not be apt to be light fingered and if they are the company is obligated to replace the items that are missing. I go to college and have my own business. It is such a joy to have the four dogs stretched out by my side (even though sometimes I swear that they will snore the wall paper off the walls. My father was a champion snorer and these dogs have him beat!!! LOL) They are such wonderful companions and bring joy and laughter to my life daily. Don't give up on having a dog. Just adjust the size factor. I will have to add that I did a craft show last weekend, and one of the things I make is reversible fleece dog coats. I took Monica, one of the three mini's. She was a great sales person. Everyone who saw her in the coat bought one for their dogs!
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Thanks Lovebear your suggestions are right up my alley. The first place I plan to go is the pound, and I found out today that I am limited to 25 pounds in my apartment and I do have an extra bedroom. We had a Dachshund when I was a child but I just barely remember him and do not know what happened to him.
@teedyboo (56)
9 Nov 08
As you are all so well-informed regarding dogs, may I quickly ask your opinion on a similar topic? What would be the smallest living area you would say was acceptable to leave a dog in during the day? I ask because my husband would love to get a Jack Russell, but we both work all day so it would be alone from about 9am till 5pm. Our house is a bungalow containing kitchen, bathroom, lounge, office, hallway and bedroom. It's not huge but would you say it would be an adequate size for a little dog to potter about in during the day? We have a back garden which it would be able to go in once we were home. I'm sure there must be people who keep dogs in smaller places like flats/apartments and they're fine..? Many thanks! Best wishes, Teedyboo :o)
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Sounds like enuff room for a little guy like that. That breed is one I am considering and I am lucky as I have an extra room if I need to give him his own place *smile* I know I will spoil my dog but that may be a little too much.
@glords (2614)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Where there is a will there is a way. I'll pray that your answers will come to you. Good luck with your adoption of a little dog to give your love to. Best Wishes
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Thanks glords I think I am getting real close to making the decision. I do know I am going to get a dog and actually starting to get excited.
@catdla1 (6005)
• United States
9 Nov 08
Now that's a reason for a relationship that I've never heard before...having it for the sake of a dog...lol. You are too funny. Dogs add so much to our lives, I can certainly understand you wanting one. I do have a suggestion, well actually a few... Is your home dog friendly, in that any messes are easy to clean, at least while you are training a dog? You could consider getting a puppy of a small breed and a kitten at the same time. A friend did that, and they kept each other company and the dog was litter trained. He thought he was a cat, I guess, because he washed himself like a cat too. The other suggestion, is to join a local kennel club, and maybe meet a partner who is single and already has a dog (or dogs). Now, you'd kill two birds with one stone (so to speak...).
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
9 Nov 08
*SMILE* actually this gal in Florida and I were involved many years ago. She is not very healthy and wants me to allow her to come stay with me in Washington. I have asked her over and over what would I do with her? Well perhaps she can take care of my dog while at work. To be honest if it was a choice between her and a dog I gotta go dog. I need happy things in my life and a puppy would be all joy as opposed to her mullygrumbing, down in the mouth, Oh woest me outlook on life. I just do not have room for a dog and a burden so think I go dog.
• India
9 Nov 08
I like your views on dog's. Just enjoy its friendship
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Thanks I am getting real close to making a decision thanks to all the support and suggestions I think I will have a better ideal when I start searching for the breed that will be the best fit.
@23uday (2997)
• India
9 Nov 08
HI buddies, I would like to have a dog in my home.I like very much dogs iam a pet lover in my home four dogs were their i will keep it as a frnd and as i treating as a my brothers.The dogs were good to peoples.The dogs were respondsbility to my family members and security to my family members.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
They are loyal friends indeed.
• China
10 Nov 08
Please make yourself cogitative.After having a dog of your own,you have to accompany with it for more than ten years.If you do not want your room mess,you can limit the dog's range of activity.I only let my puppy enter my bedroom when I am at hoom.My puppy is a lovely corgi.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
I think some misunderstand me on the "Mess",I am not as concered about that as I am leaving the dog alone while I work. Of course I do not want to come home to a mess everyday, but I have options and a good neighbor that is willing to walk him/her in the afternoons while I work. I do not think you have to live in a mess to have a dog, I believe you can train a dog fairly quickly where to take his business and there is always crate training which sounds like a feasible alternative and will limit the animal to tearing up my furniture and shoes, stuff on the floor. That is what doggie toys are for not my Nikes at the foot of the bed. The mess is not even a factor on my decision now that I have thought through this and have several options.
@mikeysmom (2088)
• United States
9 Nov 08
dogs are alot of work and they deserve to be well taken care of so you are doing the right thing by not getting one right now until there is another way. they do act out when they are left alone all day as i had that experience happen to me years ago. they should have a yard too as they need to get out and run around and get plenty of fresh air. perhaps the right time will come for you. give it some time.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
The good news is I asked my neighbor if I got a dog would he walk him when he walks his dog in the afternoon and he was like "no problem" so I have some options now just find the right combination.
@showpup (232)
• United States
9 Nov 08
Yeah, having a woman move in with you just to take care of a dog may just backfire. LOL There are other options, though. -- Hire someone to come over a couple times a day to let the dog out of it's crate to go outside and potty. Or maybe someone who can at least come once a day and take the dog for a walk. Maybe inquire with the extension office to see if there are any active dog 4-H clubs you could contact for someone both cheap and trustworthy. -- Take your dog to someone else's home for the day. -- Take your dog to a doggie daycare center or training facility. My hats off to you for thinking so thoroughly on what is involved in dog ownership.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Yes neighbor willing to help and I will look into you great suggestions.
@gracie04 (4549)
• Philippines
9 Nov 08
i would like to have a dog too but the problem is my space isn't big enough to accommodate a pet... i really wanted to transfer to a one bedroom unit but i still don't have the budget for that most especially now that Christmas is approaching...
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Hang in there perhaps a larger place is in your future.
@glahaye (25)
• United States
9 Nov 08
I would recommend your contacting rescue groups. The AKC website has lists that go on for days. Do some research on the various breeds and their temperments. You would be suprised at how mellow some of them can be (adult Great Danes, for instance). You could find yourself an adult dog that could handle being alone all day. Unless you have a job that would allow you to bring the dog with you (I was that lucky and it was great). If you want a smaller dog Lhasa Apso's and Shih Tzu's are a nice choice. I wish you luck. Dogs are great friends to have.
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
9 Nov 08
I will check out the AKC website I think I might be more of a basset hound kinda guy *smile*
@aditya540 (328)
• India
9 Nov 08
even me love to have a dog but i am afraid too!!! because the life span of dog is short and if we are too emotionally attached to it then we cant live after it goes away so i have decided not to have a dog ..!!
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
11 Nov 08
Well I have lost a wife, mother, and father and if I could get one back I surely would. One of the great things about animals is you can love them and when the pass on, after the period of grief is over you can always get another one. I am going to take the chance to have a companion but will think it through as I believe it is a committment and you just have to take your time and make good decisions.
@goodkat (63)
• Romania
9 Nov 08
Try to find a dog in the pound... that has a nice, lazy temper and that would love being around you when you are home. If you are not away for more than 8 hours, the dog should be fine. I know people in the same situation and are very ok with it. Good luck, a dog will change your life in a positive way!
@Boraxo (225)
• United States
9 Nov 08
Thanks goodkat I will check the pound for sure, back years ago I heard this radio commerical about a dog at a local vet that was free to a good home and was an Irish Setter, I went and got the dog and he had one eye shot out with a BBgun but I took him anyway, I had another yard dog named Rebel so I named the Irish Setter....Stonewall. Well I would take both of them out on hunts and you should of seen these two clowns. Rebel would just run all over the place stirring up quail and Stonewall who was a little slow just never did much of anything, but I will never forget him he never would point at anything and then one day he was in the kitchen and I laugh till I thought I would cry he was pointing his dog food dish. I really think its time to get another dog.