Dog Community

Posted : 3/13/2006 3:20:02 PM

We got Jasmine at about a year old, from the shelter. She was picked up as a stray, so she had to learn a new name, which she learned quickly, along with the variations of it, too. (Jazz, Jazzy, DH calls her Earl sometimes. It doesn't matter to her. She knows who we're talking about )

I guess I would go with older pup, since the housebreaking might be easier, too.

Don't really have much experience with dogs and cats together, though, so can't help you there.

Kara

Posted : 3/13/2006 3:25:33 PM

Mic, that would be the exact dog we are talking about and also why I am concerned about the whole prey drive thing at 5.5 mos and my kitties. The puppy won't be having unsupervised time with the kitties and will be leashed while in the house until we (her, the cats and us) are all comfortable. We will be crateing her when we aren't home. Obedience training will start right away. I'm planning on using the "NILF" philosophy which should help with any dominance issues and which seems to work wonders with this breed. I also subscribe to the "a tired dog is a good dog" way of thinking. I really really really appreciate the info! I'm sure we'll have our trials to go through so I will remember your offer. If you have any integration suggestions I would welcome them!

The kittty safe room is a great idea! thank you!!

Mic

Posted : 3/13/2006 3:30:20 PM

The day you pick up this dog, take it to some neutral territory (before you take it into your home), and take the dog on the longest walk you can muster. This will immediately put you in a leadership position, and exhaust the dog. That will make the transfer into the house much more peaceful. If you have other dogs, bring them all to this neutral location and walk them all together to allow them to start developing pack order.

I think overall you have the right idea, if you run into any specific problems I will gladly help.

forpaws

Posted : 3/13/2006 4:15:03 PM

I echo the older puppy too.... The only thing you would be missing out on is the puppys breath. Which is sweet all on its own.. Yummmm! But def older pup IMO.

Katie M.

Posted : 3/13/2006 9:15:11 PM

A well-bred Dogo is a wonderful dog. I had two in my last obedience class and they were my best students in the whole class! Calm, confident, well-mannered and totally NON-aggressive.

I agree with getting the 5 mo old, as long as he was socialized properly by the breeder. Good luck with your baby, whichever you choose!!

eskieservant

Posted : 3/14/2006 2:57:07 PM

I would say to go with older puppy. Throughout 30 years of marriage we have rescued several dogs - the youngest being 6 months the rest being at least 1 1/2 or older. Well, in July, 2004 we adopted a 13 week old puppy - the little "angel" will turn 2 April 1. Since we are in our mid 50s he will most likely be our last dog - my original plan had been to get a dog around the age of 5 - but then this little charmer needed a home. He is a delightful little "Hoover" and I wouldn't give him up for anything, but I can honestly say that should we ever get another dog he will be at least 3. He is an American Eskimo with VERY long legs.

Opinions Please! 8 week old or 22 week old?