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The right dog for us

19 14:30:56

Question
Hi Amy! My family and I are interested in buying a small to medium sized puppy. We are limited because of the size of our house.  We would like a dog that is calm, easily trained and does not bark much. I know this is a tall order but I work 6 hrs. a day. The good news is that I live close to work and can come home during my lunch hr. I have weekends and summers off. I have children over the age of 10. They are considerate with animals. Last summer we adopted a Lab mix from a shelter. We found out that part of the mix was chow chow. He was aggressive and destructive. The shelter accepted him back and found a home more suitable to his needs. Since then, I have done a lot of research because I do not want to make the same mistake again. That is why we would like a pure breed. I researched Cavaliers, and found a reputable breeder. Then, I read that Cavaliers do not do well left alone. What do you think? I do not want the puppy to be unhappy. I have an aquaintance that has 5 month old Laso-poos for adoption. I do not know anything about them. Do you?  I really appreciate any suggestions that you have. I am not set on any one breed. We will do our part to make a puppy happy. We just want to find the right dog for us. Thanks! Beth

Answer
Hi Beth,
Perhaps you could try the Laso poo on a trial basis.it is hard to find the right fit. It seems you want a dog that is non-hyper. Perhaps a Bassett hound or Pug or cocker spaniel  might be worth looking into. even a dauschund, although they can be stubborn.
6 hours a day is not too bad and I suggest whatever breed you choose you use a crate while you are gone. Even if this is only in the beginning. Although most dogs like it so much they look for the crate if you  remove it.
Cavaliers are very nice dogs , I recommend them as long as you get a healthy specimen , they can be plagued w/ health problems.
You seem dedicated to finding the right dog. I'm sure you will..Just remember crate training is your best bet if you are not sold on it you can phase it out but most dogs like a place of their own.
good luck,
            Amy