New dog advice

[3Mach1]

This is for my parents so this may get long.

They had a black lab that we had to put down. It has broken hearts like you can imagine. We have all cried about it.

Casey was so big that he hurt my dad when he was just a puppy. Casey was 100 lbs. My parents loved the labs personality. They are so friendly but they are so big and powerful.

They are older now and we are concerned about a animial that it too strong. They are both closing in on 80 but are both in good health. They want another dog. I am thinking maybe a border collie for them. Im afraid a lab will be too powerful.

Im a firm believer that people live longer with dogs. What is your opinion please?

[Audrey]

Studies have shown that dogs help reduce stress and thus have many associated health benefits, including longer lifetime expectancy.

Don't push anyone into getting a new pet though.

[Norm201]

Originally Posted by 3Mach1

This is for my parents so this may get long.

They had a black lab that we had to put down. It has broken hearts like you can imagine. We have all cried about it.

Casey was so big that he hurt my dad when he was just a puppy. Casey was 100 lbs. My parents loved the labs personality. They are so friendly but they are so big and powerful.

They are older now and we are concerned about a animal that it too strong. They are both closing in on 80 but are both in good health. They want another dog. I am thinking maybe a border collie for them. Im afraid a lab will be too powerful.

I,m a firm believer that people live longer with dogs. What is your opinion please?

3Mach1,

So sorry to hear about the loss of a family member. My sympathy to you and your parents.

As a border collie owner and lover I must warn you. Border Collies are terrific BUT and this is a real problem, they MUST be properly trained and be able to have lots of activity. Their minds are very nimble and they will take any opportunity to learn things be good or bad! My daughter is a Veterinary and can verify this from education and experience.

My border collie was not trained properly and as a result he has the stereo type personality of such. He is prone to "attack" any high pitched, loud or unusual noise. Will try to herd anybody and anything and do it by nipping at one's butt and legs especially kids. Sometimes constant barking if not paid attention to. Will tag along and as if attached to the hip. They need lots of running room.

On the plus side, if properly trained they will be forever loyal and extremely friendly without the jumping and bothersome trait. They can be easily trained (after initial training) to provide care and emergency help. I love all dogs but a boarder collie is special and I think are the very best. With that said I will not own another one.

If your parents are into the larger breed, may I suggest a German Shepard. Big, lovable and "look" like a menace (for protection). My next dog will be a larger German Shepard with very dark markings and looking every bit a "junk yard dog" but with a pussy cat personality. AND I'm going to name him BUTTERCUP!

[Norm201]

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[psi chick]

yea i don't think a border collie is the best option for a couple in their 80's. they just require too much activity. what about a greyhound? there's great retirement programs for them, and they're actually really big lap dogs. weimeriner's (sp?) are great also. or a bull dog. there are a lot of great options out there.

[HokieBill]

I agree with Norm, border collies have a lot of energy. Unbelievable amount if you are used to labs. And the nipping, jumping and herding is right on target too. We have fostered labs in the past and many rescue groups will make a reasonable attempt to match dog personalities to prospective owners. Rescue groups will also have older dogs so you don't have to put up with puppies.

[Andy]

You could always just aim for a smaller lab if you want something that is relaxed and very loyal. We have a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and while she can run like mad if she wants, I have no doubt that she would jump in front of a bullet for me. I have never met a dog that is as loyal as she is and eager and willing to please all the time.

[RaefWolfe]

My boyfriend's family has a standard schnauzer and he is a wonderful lap dog. He's content to be a (large) lap dog, go on a few car rides now and then, etc. WOnderfully behaved, too. 'Fraid I don't know much more about dogs though.

[Smalls]

my good friend has an american bulldog. suchhhh a lover. not all that energetic and is super friendly. only downside is that he's a lap dog and weighs about 100lbs!!!!!! but i highly recommend one for an older couple that still wants a larger dog.

[grafxman]

I don't think a Border Collie is a good idea either. They are just too energetic. I used to breed Dobermans and I would recommend one of them. The thing about a Dobbie is they MUST be raised as a house pet and obedience trained. If so they make the most lovable, affectionate pet you ever saw. They should never be tied up on a chain or put behind a fence in a yard. Since your folks are getting old they will find no better protection. No one will try to take advantage of them with a Dobbie in the house or on a leash. A Boxer would also make a good pet. They are usually slightly smaller than Dobbies at about 60 pounds. Dobbies usually go about 70 lbs. Personally I prefer a short haired dog over a long haired dog.