Not to be rude to newbie owners and we all have to start somewhere, but.... How many people get dogs thinking they are all prepared, only to find out things are way harder than they thought?
Surely thats why rescues and shelters are full of dogs that have been surrendered or thrown out and left to roam the streets.
I know Im as guilty as the next man, but my first dog was luckily rehomed straight away and had a happy life. that was 20 years ago. these days dogs arent so lucky.

Don't worry, I'm not trying to get you to scream (LOL) or drag the other thread in, but I did want to know your views other than just agreeing with Dale's Mum. That's all.

We've not met on here yet I don't think (hello) but I'm a first time working springer owner so I am interested in comments about it not being a good idea, as I'm sure Iso is being a boxer owner.

I notice no-one has suggested a setter as a first time breed , they have the most wonderful temperaments but obedience doesn't come easy...I learnt the hard way, we had a labxspaniel as a first dog then, when I was 18 and we lost him I got my first setter, an Irish setter that had to have been the naughtiest dog that was ever born.

After him I got my first English and thought that would be a doddle after the Irish...wrong! Yes, they can be trained but you go one step forward and 5 backwards with them so although I would highly recommend them as a family pet because of their temperament, I would never have sold a pup of mine to a first time owner.

By the way, I'm talking general obedience here, I've never had any trouble with teaching toilet training..just coming back when called and not chewing things.

I only say that because I've had a spaniel, who was a complete doddle in all respects, and then again I've done the puppy bit with 6 gsd's now and imo, they are worlds apart, only to me, through my own experience that is.

I won't shoot ya!!!

Every time!!! THAT is more about what it's about than the actual dog I think!

The cockers around here are BONKERS! I love mad dogs but I'm not sure I could handle a cocker.

So, if that is the case then why do so many posters (not you that I've noticed, just using your comment) say:

''Sorry but X is not the right breed for a first time owner''?

I'm a bit surprised that from your own experiences, you can't see why we are saying it. You had some severe problems with Woody which were almostly totally due to your inexperience and 'getting it wrong'.

In your deepest dispair there was talk of him being pts, rehomed, the lot.

Now fair play to you, you've worked at it and seem to have turned things round. But how many 'average families' will be willing to put in the work and to get the help you got from experienced dog people?

So, what advice would I give for a potential first time owner (with not even any previous 'family dog' experience)? Get some experience. Volunteer at rescue centres; if you are interested in a specific breed, get involved with the breed club. Spend as much time as possible with your 'chosen' breed before getting one of your own.

Alternatively I'd recommend that the complete novice considers an older rescue dog. Evidently not one with issues, but there are many wonderful dogs in rescue only there because of change of family circumstances (e.g. owner death), not because of behavioural issues. Personally I think this is a good introduction into dog ownership without being thrown in at the deep end with a pup and you get a much better indication of what you are getting. It also means that if dog ownership if not really for you, you've maybe only committed yourself to 5-10 years rather than the 10-15 or so you would expect when getting a pup.

So what is a easy dog?

1,Coat. not too much shedding/not to much grooming/ not too much clipping/stripping

2. intelligence, clever but not too clever, easy to train

3.drive, not too strong , with a high drive breed perhaps not a "working type"

4. Dogs that will be up for a walk/ training/ activity, but will settle indoors.


***** just like men, there is no perfect dog, just what you can put up with!!! Lets face it some people shouldnt have a dog full stop!

Hello *waves*

Im all about whats best for the dog ... I would love another dog , possibly a flat coated retriever or red setter , but I know im not capable , yet , of giving the care , training and attention three dogs would need , so I have to wait *sulks*

Im sure you did all the research etc before getting your dog hun , and if you are both happy & healthy then its all good