Puppy or adult

Question
We had to have our cocker put to sleep a few years ago and want to get another dog and think that a golden would fit best with our family. We were thinking about going through the local golden rescue for a dog instead of a puppy but we aren't sure if thats the best thing to do we have a young child who is 4 years old. Would a puppy be better with a young child since it would grow up with our 4 year old and be use to have a young child around or would an older dog be better since it has calmed down and wouldn't be so small

Thanks
Bill

Answer
I do know from rescue experience that sometimes those dogs are abused or mistreated and therefore would be more work than a puppy.  However, rescue workers work with the family to get them the proper golden.  I recommend a puppy.  This way you can be sure of its upbringing.  Obviously obedience training is the best solution for both rescue dog and puppy, but I would almost insist you do obedience training with a rescue dog.  There are pros and cons with doing either, but the selection of breed is your best bet with children in the house.  I would advise a 6-8 week old puppy.  You will be the one training it, so you need to be the one to make sure of supervision with your child.  As with an older rescue golden, there are no guarentees that this golden has never bitten anyone. Most goldens don't bite, but they could.  good luck.