[*Cyndee*]

I'm set on getting a dog this year. So much I'm pushing to fence in our yard by the month's end. I need a dog like I need a hole in the head. Working full time is not ideal for puppy training and the rescues are hard to find good family dogs - we want a dog that's right for our family - med size - and brainstorming on breeds between a cocker, hound mix, and now focused on a golden retriever (I've always wanted one).

I keep pushing myself back from this, but it keeps coming back. I don't know WHY I want a dog so badly. It's driving me nuts!

[kimmiejo]

just get a dog then haha.....it is a lot of work in the beginning with training, especially if you get a puppy but it is do-able. don't forget they do cost a lot with food, vet, getting them fixed if they aren't already, etc too but really if you want a dog go for it! my sister has a Golden, she is a great dog but has a lot of allergy problems, other than that she is awesome!......next dog we get will be a mutt I think haha

[GirliMumi]

Oh Lord Cyndee!!! Coming from the Lady that used to love animals, seriously think it through!!!! I have come to hate these cats. I know cats aren't the same as dogs (I've had both) but these bloody things are driving me mental.

I had a Springer (a little bigger than a cocker, same family) growing up, and I adored that dog. Having said that, just remember, you'll have the initial vet bills (I would ballpark around $500 - depending on the age of the rescue, you may need vaccines, deworming, spay/neutering) Then you will have the yearly vet visits for rabies and other shots etc. (should be a good $250/yr) Grooming if it's a longer haired breed - $65 on avg every 9-12 wks. Walking in the morning and evenings. Boarding if you have any trips that come up.

Sorry to be the downer but since you mentioned trying to talk yourself out of getting one, I thought I'd put some cons out there. Pros being they are adorable, loyal, protective, etc. etc. but those are easy to come up with

[*Cyndee*]

Thank you! I need to be financially realistic about it. I think we need to think long and hard about it. My heart says its time but my head is saying to wait a year and really be sure.

[.Michelle.]

Follow your gut. If it keeps coming back that you want to get a dog I think someone somewhere is really wanting you to get one!
Dogs are also good therapy which is what I love about them. Weigh your pros and cons and see which one wins.

[IneedCoffee]

Dogs really are great therapy ^^. Yes they cost money.. but so do kids. I can't see myself without my dogs.. they make me happy.

[1stbaby]

I love my dogs, but honestly life would be so much easier without them. They are small so I constantly have to remind the girls not to pick them up. It's also really hard to go anywhere right after work or overnight because of them.

My advice is to make a pro/con list before moving forward.

[LisaMarie!]

Going on long trips are hard with dogs because you either have to bring them or find someone to watch them. My sister hire someone if she comes and visit. Once in a while she will bring them but it is a pain.

[GirliMumi]

You will make the right decision. I know you won't jump into something too fast, I'm sure with the time and money you'd love having one. Just like you said, with just getting your gorgeous house, really weigh out the costs.

[WineKeepsMeSane]

You could try fostering for a rescue group. You'll get what it's like to have a dog, but none of the financial responsibility.

[GirliMumi]

^^ ohhhhhh, smart Mama!

[*Cyndee*]

Yeah, I'm not sure with a young child having a dog come and go is a good idea.

[1stbaby]

Just another thing to think about is your yard. My girls always want to go barefoot in the backyard but can't because the dogs go to the bathroom out there.

[TheMommyProject]

Lots to think about, which everyone has pointed out already and I know you'll make a well thought through decision.

I'm with you on the fostering, I would be concerned about emotional attachment and disappointment with dogs coming and going. I'm not even sure I could handle that, let alone a 4yr old.

As for breed decision, take into consideration their energy level and needs. For me personally, I know I'm not up for long walks a couple times a day, so that's why I have a breed is really low maintenance in that regard, for example.

On the financial side, I agree with the $500 budget per year for vet costs and that's assuming nothing major goes wrong. I also factor in boarding costs to any of my vacation bugdeting.

I say if your heart is really telling you to go for it, then do it! Dogs are wonderful and a child and their dog together is even more wonderful.

[*Cyndee*]

I think I'm going to settle down, sit on the idea, get a fence put in and maybe do the swingset first this spring and revisit the idea in a year.

I really really hope a stray doesn't show up on my doorstep LOL