Dog advice....

[MaryPoppins]

...so, I want to get a dog. I am in the process of moving to somewhere much more rural and am also going to change my car to accommodate said pooch.

Much as I'd like to get a puppy to train myself, and for my little boy to get to know - I'm not sure that's a realistic aim given it's me on my own, and I work full time.

So, I'm wondering whether a slightly older (as in, a year old or so), already trained doggy, might fit the bill. But if so, I've no idea what breed to go for. I want to be a responsible dog owner, but it's difficult to ascertain what sort of dog would work for us. I would like a decent sized dog, and preferably something that won't malt. I don't like labs particularly.

So - you lot. What dogs do you have?! Is it a bad idea to get a dog that's not a puppy - i.e. an animal that I haven't been involved with from the beginning?

[BrilloPad]

I think Churchill is for sale - why not ask CailinMaith?

[d000hg]

Isn't a kid enough MP?!

[MaryPoppins]

Isn't a kid enough MP?!

Seems not...! I like the idea of feeling a bit more secure alone in the house, and it will be good for child to understand the responsibility of a pet.

Plus, it will help me pick up men.

[MarillionFan]

I think Churchill is for sale - why not ask CailinMaith?

She probably wants a dog that doesn't bark it's head off for most of the day before eventually pissing itself.

[Old Greg]

I think Churchill is for sale - why not ask CailinMaith?

Can you imagine the soiling?

[BrilloPad]

I like the idea of feeling a bit more secure alone in the house

Then either get a small dog that will bark like hell or a large aggressive dog that can handle itself.

Plus, it will help me pick up men.

[Old Greg]

What about a retired guide dog?

[BrilloPad]

She probably wants a dog that doesn't bark it's head off for most of the day before eventually pissing itself.

Can you imagine the soiling?

On the other hand Churchill is very good with small children. I am not quite sure how he will respond to MP using him to pick up men though.....

[DimPrawn]

What about a retired guide dog?

That's what the men will have, but what about MP?