Reply #24: before you go looking for a dog [View All]

write out a list of things you are looking for - large dog, medium, small? long hair, short hair? A particular breed type? Consider where you live - rural, urban, suburban?

You've already mentioned you don't want a hyper-dog, and you are concerned about behavior problems.

If you are not sure what type/breed of dog would be a good match for you - go here and it will give you a list based on your lifestyle and preferences: http://www.glowdog.com/bestdog/

my first suggestion is to check out your local shelters. I saw above you are worried about behavioral problems. many dogs are brought to shelters for reasons other than behavior, like the owners are moving or divorcing and can't take the dog with them

If it's a good shelter - they do evaluate the dog behavior and temperment.

2nd suggestion is to check out local breed rescue groups.

I'm a bit bias here - but urge you to consider a greyhound. THEY ARE NOT HYPER - we refer to them as 45mph couch potatoes. Yes they need exercise and a place to do a bit of running - but no more than any other dog. They have short hair, easy to groom and well behaved. We have an 11 yr old airedale, 2 greyhounds and 5 cats - they all get along. We've also done some fostering of greyhounds and have never had a problem with any of them.

This is the website I run for a pennsylvania greyhound rescue - http://reghr0.tripod.com/

this page has FAQs about greyhounds: http://reghr0.tripod.com/id4.html

Q: Are Greyhounds high energy or "hyper" dogs?
A: No. They are a true couch potato. They do need exercise, but more often than not prefer to curl up in a warm soft place. Don't be surprised if you find your greyhound laying claim to a couch or your bed. If you don't want him/her on the furniture, firmly call the greyhound off the furniture, show him his bed and praise him when he lays on his bed.

Greyhounds are good dogs in all types of homes from apartments to county farms. They average about 28" at the shoulder, 60-65lbs for the ideal racing weight,but once in a regular home they gain weight.

check google for greyhound rescues in your area, give them a call and ask if you can meet a few. Many rescues do 'adoptathons' at places like petsmart on a regular basis. there is usually an adoption application and an adoption fee. Fees vary. Some greyhounds are already neutered/spayed prior to adoption. The majority of them are fostered prior to adoption to give them time to adapt to living in a home enviroment, and it gives the rescue group the opportunity to evaluate the dog's behavior, temperment and personality.