Anyone here have a dog? Thinking about getting one…

[OneforfreedomParticipant 930]

Do you like it? What breed? I’m in the market for a new one; looking for a dog that loves walks, doesn’t mind being left alone from 9am to 6pm, and is playful. I’d love to hear some breed recommendations.

[heads-upParticipant 320]

“doesn’t mind being left alone from 9am to 6pm,”………please get two…..dogs are seriously social animals……they live high octane lives…..9/6pm for them alone would be torture everyday……..

[Sky-OParticipant 18961]

I have a Maltese that was left at my house by a narcissistic slut.

He’s MGHOW now. . . .

Maltese Going His Own Way

[RoyDalParticipant]

I got a Doberman from an animal shelter, like STEALTHY MGTOW did. Best pet I’ve ever owned.

Society asks MGTOWs: Why are you not making more tax-slaves?

[FullMetalExoParticipant 2383]

Im still thinking it over, will see how my life goes, don’t want my dog to sit all alone in the house, waiting for me while, Im mostly out working/learning.

…and dunno what breed. I like Colombo’s dog, basset Hound, lately.

 

I used to have Caucasian Shepard, magnificent, loyal, friendly and huge as a bear (killer of wolves, friend and protector, very calm and playful, loves snow and cold, feels great in it) what a dog that was…best friend for years and I always played/talked with him. RIP friend. Was dying of sickness, and had to be put to sleep on my hands. Was holding him since he was a baby, and when he passed, that day was holding him aswell.

 

If anyone of you got  a big house or/and your own Yard/Wilderness nearby, consider caucasian shepard, what a dog it can be if trained and loved. Amazing.

they grow by month’s insanely fast btw. You can literally see them grow and run around like bears.

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[BDParticipant 1146]

RULE: MAN’S BEST FRIEND!  THE COMPANY OF A GOOD DOG IS FAR BETTER THAN A HYPERGAMOUS WOMAN WHO EVENTUALLY TAKES YOUR FREDOM IN SO MANY WAYS.

Dog always comes before ANY woman. Dogs are awesome, no doubt.

A dog is a huge commitment though, think of the dog….

To you, the dog would be a hour or two of your day,

and to the dog you are its entire life… being locked up 9-6pm would suck for a dog.

Be fair to the dog, only get one if you have time.  It limits your freedom as well.

Don’t get a dog to substitute for loneliness, learning to be happy with yourself is an amazing gift.

Because in order to be able to think, you have to risk being offensive.

[WallyParticipant]

Excellent thread!  Only thing I can think of to add is if you can’t get a second dog try to take your dog to the local dog park, if there is one,  several times a week.  As far as breed is concerned mutts are really good.  Dogs are a lot smarter than most people give them credit for and the dog you get will know you saved its life.

"what a waste of a life, to marry, give up your freedom, just for the hope of not dying alone. Don't get married Son."

[GunslingerParticipant 242]

It sucks leaving my two dogs for the same time frame everyday. But that’s why I make sure to take Em for long walks and more belly rubs than they can take each night. Hit the dog park a couple of times a week.

Like others have said get a rescue, even if you have to be away from them for most of the day, being in your place will be lightyears better than a shelter. And if you can afford two, it’ll give them a playmate.

 

[Jon the Ex-SquidParticipant 298]

I’ve had several dogs throughout my life. Most were mutts rescued from the pound. I would not advise getting a puppy if its your first dog. They take a little while to housebreak and tend to chew the most annoying things, like shoes and power cords. If its not your first rodeo, then figure out what size dog you want and go from there. Just be aware that larger dogs do not tend to live as long as medium-sized dogs.

I had a boxer/bulldog mix and it was the best dog I’ve ever had in my life. Cried more when he died than when my mother did.

Look into puppy daycare if its available in your area. Better option than leaving it home that long. If you must leave the dog at home alone for any length of time, I can’t recommend crate-training it highly enough.

Downsides: you need to board the dog before going away overnight and it may limit your ability to rent an apartment/house.

Upsides: you will never have a more loyal or loving companion.

 

[KeymasterKeymaster]

I grew up with 3 German shepherds around me all the time. If one died, my Uncle got another one and always had 3. They all developed hip problems.

The dog with the BEST disposition was a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Looks much meaner than it is. QUIET dog. Never barked. Never a tantrum. And a little small like a stunted lab / pit… with big feet and a big head. Adorable… but still kinda “tough” looking. A guys dog, without being too big.

Then I looked after one like this for a week: Shiba Inu

That dog was a pussy magnet like you wouldn’t believe. And SO docile. I might even say “stately” and “elegant”.

Personally, when I see a chocolate lab, I just stop in my tracks.
I mean look at this thing.

If you keep doing what you've always done... you're gonna keep getting what you always got.

[The Long WalkParticipant 1282]

I’d suggest a male dog from a larger breed.  The reason for that is that (in my experience), the small dogs and especially females of any breed will be more highly strung (now where have I heard that before?).  They can still make great companions, it’s just they’ll bark a lot more than a male, harder to train, just more work in general.  As other have said, a dog from an animal shelter is a good option.  Most dogs you’ll find at a shelter aren’t there because of something they themselves have done.

I have a male Rottweiler, from a local shelter.  He’s perfectly happy to be left on his own at home, likes a walk in the evening, particularly enjoys his food.  He’s no hassle at all really, lays in his bed most of the day, good with people, best buddy you could ever ask for imo.

Only problem I have with him is out walking when we come across small dogs – they’re often aggressive toward us, and Rotts have a strong protective instinct, so you have to bear that in mind.

[BeerParticipant 11832]

I have a rescue mutt.  I think she was beaten and not fed well before I got her.  Its like others have said though…I’m pretty sure she realized instantly that I bailed her out of a s~~~ hole, and she has been attached to my hip since I got her about 5 years ago.  She’s kind of messed up and neurotic from her past life so its hard to take her out in public, but once someone gains her trust she’s a giant teddy bear.  I guess every dogs different but mines pretty low maintenance…I probably average about 30 minutes walking/jogging with her a day plus a few more 5 minute bathroom runs.  She’s usually ready to go back inside before I am lol.  The rest of the time she’s happy just being a couch potato and hanging out.

The one downside to being a dog owner though, is if you like to travel or go on random weekend adventures short notice it makes it tough sometimes…but then again its a great way to save money if you find yourself just wanting to hang out at home more because you have a badass dog to hang out with.

[Puffin StuffParticipant 25015]

I have always had a dog, when I was born my family had a mutt that I loved even though it bit my had when I was playing “here’s some for you, here’s some for me with a bone when I was 4) and used to drag me down the street to bite the tire of my uncles VW whenever is drove by.

Then my family had an ex-junkyard protecting German Shepard which pinned my grandmother in the kitchen when she went in late at night for a snack.

Then we got an Airdale which was my childhood best friend.  When I was at school my mom used to let her out and she used to go down to the local elementary school and play with the kids (before the school gestapo arrived).  Until she got too old and disappeared into the woods one day.

The only dog I ever had that I regret getting was a wienmaraner (sp) who killed a golden retriever I also had and went feral.

Then I got my current golden retriever who I have had for 10 years.  The best dog I have ever had hands down.

She’s smarter than me, perfectly trained, heels, sits never dirties in the house.  She’s incredibly affectionate.  I just can’t have two dogs and she doesn’t seem to mind spending time alone during the day.

I’d say this dog is 10x better to live with than any female I have ever known.  I love her to death, she’s 10 and I’ll definitely get a golden retriever female when she goes.

Rosey

 

#icethemout; Remember Thomas Ball. He died for your children.

[EscapedMentalPatientParticipant 1489]

Great to hear you are considering getting a dog @oneforfreedom.

I’ve always had a dog around, since I was a boy.

Before I were to suggest anything, would you be looking to have a large breed or stick to a smaller breed?  Most dogs, if you spend the correct time with them, and lead them properly will do ok if you have to leave them at home, although it doesn’t hurt for them to have some kind of buddy with them at home.  It’s a huge plus if you can get someone to stop by at lunch or the like just to reaffirm for the dog that he/she isn’t alone.

I can say, after owning my second one, that a labrador retriever is a pretty amazing dog all around.  They have an incredible disposition, are beyond loyal, and apart from being highly intelligent, they are ready to work with you.  It’s just in their nature.  They want to do things for you.  Exercise is key though.  I run mine for a minimum of a half hour a day, in the evening.  Without this, she is very lost.  For a time, earlier this year, I was unable to walk her with this schedule at first.  It really confused her, and I think she thought she was being punished.  Once I had a neighbor start taking her again (until I could), she was right back to normal.

My first was a chocolate lab, my current is a yellow lab.  Some will say that the color matters (black, yellow, chocolate being the most common), but others will say this is BS.  I didn’t find too much difference, but then I’ve only had two.  They are remarkable animals.

She’s literally been my best friend through more than one hairy deal.

She’s a bit peeved with getting her picture taken in the morning, but:

 

[UntamedParticipant]

Oneforfreedom wrote:

Do you like it? What breed? I’m in the market for a new one; looking for a dog that loves walks, doesn’t mind being left alone from 9am to 6pm, and is playful. I’d love to hear some breed recommendations.

  Get a Carlin. They’re always upbeat, they love to walk, they’re funny as hell, they’re cute and they’re easy to take care of.  I’m satisfied with mine, Bill is the best friend I ever had.

Don't let them Blame, Shame or Tame you!
Give 'em NOTHING, not even an answer!
#GenderSegragationNow!

[uchibenkeiParticipant 7965]

can’t really go wrong with whatever breed you choose.  I’ve only ever heard bad things about dalmations.  they are prone to many health problems and can cost you a lot for vet care, meds, etc.  personality wise, nothing wrong with them.

I bathe in the tears of single moms.

[Dark KenshiParticipant 2132]

Dogs and horses, these two are the best companions a man can have.

Horse is a lot expensive, but, if you have some money and a big chunk of land, I suggest you have one.

Probably I am biased, because I was born in a Brazilian state that have a very deep rider culture (a lot like it is in Texas), so, horses are the second man’s best friend.

I had a dog around since I was 8, but I had two dogs that was specially remarkable to me.

The first was a mix from Collie and German Shepard, very docile, had the coat from the collie with the collors from the Shepard, but I moved with my parents to an apartment (I was underage at that time), and they gave the dog to my family’s friend.

The second one was a small mutt (she have a bit of dachshund blood in her, she is looks a lot like one) that my ex have. My shadow, if you catch my drift. Always at my side, always waiting for my orders, always doing what I told her. Never needed to scold her, just whistle and she was there. There was this time that all the other dogs (my ex have 4 mutts) went to the kitchen as my ex was about to feed them. Only my mutt remained behind, looking at me, waiting for me to tell her to go and eat, with that tail waving around like a fan…

hahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

Waited a few seconds (just to test her obedience) then told her “Ok, go join your sisters” and there she went, like a gust of wind…

Awesome dog…  Miss her so much!

I am about to move to another country, would LOVE to have my little mutt with me, but I can’t, so, I will buy (or adopt, if I find one) a Shiba Inu when I find a place to stay in this new country.

"Young was I once, I walked alone, and bewildered seemed in the way; then I found me another and rich I thought me, for man is the joy of man." Odin, Hàvamàl, stanza 47.

[ScandinavianParticipant 590]

We had a Golden Retriever when I was younger. He was often alone for 8-9 hrs/day and didn’t seem to be bothered by it very much; he just went to bed and slept, incredibly lazy and cool dog. Often we would get home and he’d just raise his head, newly awake and look at us for a few seconds as “who the heck is making that noise that woke me up?” And then run towards us always happy.

 

 

I myself dream of getting a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but I work too much and that breed is definitely waaay too restless to be alone for so long.

[OneforfreedomParticipant 930]

Thank you everyone!

S/he would 100% come from a rescue or shelter. I don’t like dogs being euthanized by the shelters just because they couldn’t find a home in time.

And yes, adopting in a pair seems like a good idea for them to entertain themselves while I’m gone. As far as expenses, no I’m not worried about that.I’m saving $250K over 18 years by not having kids, and a lot more by not being married. I can afford to lavish my pups.

Leaving two dogs together in the house 9-6pm can’t be THAT bad right? I mean I’d walk them for 1-2 hours every morning around 5-7am, and would take them to a park for 1 hour in the evening. They would also sleep with me/inside the house. How does the rest of America do it since most also have a 9-5 or 9-6 schedule?

The SPCA begged me to take a militarry type dog the black gangs were using for pit bull training. His tail was  bit off.  His spine was sticking out, dog pnemonia. Today he has his own couch is 30 lbs heavy, thick coat, full meds and looks like a show dog.  When I  eat he gets a steak too.  He gets brushed, walked and played with. Such a dog will be with you forever.  Loving  and faithfull.

That is a beautiful thing you did, and your dog sounds so cute! The dog and you truly have an amazing bond. Thanks for sharing!

Sky-O wrote:

He’s MGHOW now. . . . Maltese Going His Own Way

LOL! Love the wordplay. SHE LEFT HER OWN DOG? Ugh. Cruel. Well thank you for giving it a home. That’s very kind on your part.

FullMetalExo wrote:

I used to have Caucasian Shepard, magnificent, loyal, friendly and huge as a bear (killer of wolves, friend and protector, very calm and playful, loves snow and cold, feels great in it) what a dog that was…best friend for years and I always played/talked with him. RIP friend. Was dying of sickness, and had to be put to sleep on my hands. Was holding him since he was a baby, and when he passed, that day was holding him aswell.

Man, I’m sorry to read this. RIP to your CS.

BD wrote:

A dog is a huge commitment though, think of the dog…. To you, the dog would be a hour or two of your day, and to the dog you are its entire life… being locked up 9-6pm would suck for a dog. Be fair to the dog, only get one if you have time.  It limits your freedom as well. Don’t get a dog to substitute for loneliness, learning to be happy with yourself is an amazing gift.

Very True- thank you for sharing this perspective.

Do you think two puppies would be a good idea from 9-6? To keep each other company?

Wally wrote:

Only thing I can think of to add is if you can’t get a second dog try to take your dog to the local dog park, if there is one,  several times a week.  As far as breed is concerned mutts are really good.  Dogs are a lot smarter than most people give them credit for and the dog you get will know you saved its life.

 

I’ll do both- second dog and local park :D. I love the amount of love there is for dogs on this forum. Thank you for sharing!

Jon the Ex-Squid wrote:

I’ve had several dogs throughout my life. Most were mutts rescued from the pound. I would not advise getting a puppy if its your first dog. They take a little while to housebreak and tend to chew the most annoying things, like shoes and power cords. If its not your first rodeo, then figure out what size dog you want and go from there. Just be aware that larger dogs do not tend to live as long as medium-sized dogs. I had a boxer/bulldog mix and it was the best dog I’ve ever had in my life. Cried more when he died than when my mother did. Look into puppy daycare if its available in your area. Better option than leaving it home that long. If you must leave the dog at home alone for any length of time, I can’t recommend crate-training it highly enough. Downsides: you need to board the dog before going away overnight and it may limit your ability to rent an apartment/house. Upsides: you will never have a more loyal or loving companion.

Very fair analysis and advice- thank you!

Keymaster wrote:

Then I looked after one like this for a week: Shiba Inu.

Personally, when I see a chocolate lab, I just stop in my tracks. I mean look at this thing.

SO CUTE! oh dear I’m going to research those breeds…they might make the shortlist.

The Long Walk wrote:

I’d suggest a male dog from a larger breed.  The reason for that is that (in my experience), the small dogs and especially females of any breed will be more highly strung (now where have I heard that before?).  They can still make great companions, it’s just they’ll bark a lot more than a male, harder to train, just more work in general.

<span style=”line-height: 1.5;”>I have a male Rottweiler, from a local shelter.  He’s perfectly happy to be left on his own at home, likes a walk in the evening, particularly enjoys his food.  He’s no hassle at all really, lays in his bed most of the day, good with people, best buddy you could ever ask for imo.</span>

Rottweiler sounds good. I’m actually leaning towards small dogs since I live in a 1BR apartment (pets are allowed so I’m lucky here). I was looking at the Bichon Frise and I LOVE it!

 

 

Beer wrote:

I have a rescue mutt.  I think she was beaten and not fed well before I got her.  Its like others have said though…I’m pretty sure she realized instantly that I bailed her out of a s~~~ hole, and she has been attached to my hip since I got her about 5 years ago.  She’s kind of messed up and neurotic from her past life so its hard to take her out in public, but once someone gains her trust she’s a giant teddy bear.  I guess every dogs different but mines pretty low maintenance…I probably average about 30 minutes walking/jogging with her a day plus a few more 5 minute bathroom runs.  She’s usually ready to go back inside before I am lol.  The rest of the time she’s happy just being a couch potato and hanging out. The one downside to being a dog owner though, is if you like to travel or go on random weekend adventures short notice it makes it tough sometimes…but then again its a great way to save money if you find yourself just wanting to hang out at home more because you have a badass dog to hang out with.

Thanks for rescuing her! Yeah your low maintenance routine is something I’m really looking for. She sounds very friendly and cute. Congrats!!!

Puffin Stuff wrote:

Then I got my current golden retriever who I have had for 10 years.  The best dog I have ever had hands down. She’s smarter than me, perfectly trained, heels, sits never dirties in the house.  She’s incredibly affectionate.  I just can’t have two dogs and she doesn’t seem to mind spending time alone during the day. I’d say this dog is 10x better to live with than any female I have ever known.  I love her to death, she’s 10 and I’ll definitely get a golden retriever female when she goes.

Nice description- thank you. I’ll research goldens as well. I have heard great things about them.

Untamed wrote:

Get a Carlin. They’re always upbeat, they love to walk, they’re funny as hell, they’re cute and they’re easy to take care of.  I’m satisfied with mine, Bill is the best friend I ever had.

OMG They look SO Cute! Ok they’re on the list. Bill sounds amazing.

Thanks everyone for sharing!!!!

[OneforfreedomParticipant 930]

Dark Kenshi wrote:

The second one was a small mutt (she have a bit of dachshund blood in her, she is looks a lot like one) that my ex have. My shadow, if you catch my drift. Always at my side, always waiting for my orders, always doing what I told her. Never needed to scold her, just whistle and she was there. There was this time that all the other dogs (my ex have 4 mutts) went to the kitchen as my ex was about to feed them. Only my mutt remained behind, looking at me, waiting for me to tell her to go and eat, with that tail waving around like a fan…

hahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

Waited a few seconds (just to test her obedience) then told her “Ok, go join your sisters” and there she went, like a gust of wind…

THAT IS SO SWEET. She really respected you a lot to not follow the crowd and to wait for your OK.

Scandinavian wrote:

We had a Golden Retriever when I was younger. He was often alone for 8-9 hrs/day and didn’t seem to be bothered by it very much; he just went to bed and slept, incredibly lazy and cool dog. Often we would get home and he’d just raise his head, newly awake and look at us for a few seconds as “who the heck is making that noise that woke me up?” And then run towards us always happy.

A second vote for goldens- all right looks like this one will make the shortlist.He sounds really cute. Thank you!!!

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