Introduction1) Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?This will be my first dog where I will be the sole owner/trainer. I've grown up with a family dog(Bichon) that I would take care of during the day (feed, outdoor walks/play).2) Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?I'm leaning towards rescuing a young adult dog (between 1-3 years old). Since I live alone and work, I don't think a puppy is an option right now. With that being said, I understand dogs still have the puppy attitude for the first years and with any dog adapting to a new environment, the first few weeks/months will be crucial. I work <10mins away and have a somewhat flexible job so I am able to zip home during lunch to walk/train.3) Describe your ideal dog.My ideal dog is independent, easy-going, and not prone to much barking. I am currently renting a townhome that allows dogs, and my front door leads to a big grassy area and a trail that is really close to lake/beach/parks.4) What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?I'm looking at labs and similar medium-sized dogs. I'm leaning towards lab because I've ready they are eager to please and very friendly/social.5) What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?nothing specific. Would be nice if I could train it to go off-leash. I don't have a fenced-in yard, and if the dog wants to play fetch or hang out at the park, I think off-leash could be helpful.Care Commitments6) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?I'll have time for a quick AM walk/outdoor time, the occasional lunch break, and then all evening.7) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?At least 1 hour-long walk. Probably another quick walk/play in the morning or lunch. Type of exercise would mostly be walks around the park/lake and/or a visit to a dog park.8) How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?I'm flexible. I would prefer a low-maintenance dog.Personal Preferences9) What size dog are you looking for?Medium-sized. As mentioned above, I'm looking at labs.10) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?I don't love shedding, but I uynderstand it's part of being a dog owner and as long as I stay on-top of it, I should be able to handle it. I live in a townhome, so a dog that is not prone to too much loud barking would be preferable.11) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?Somewhat. As mentioned above, I have a pretty big yard that's shared with other units, but it is unfenced. Would be nice if I am able to train off-leash.Dog Personality and Behavior12) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?In between. I'm looking for a dog that can do his own thing but wants his family nearby.13) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?No preference. Probably somewhat in the middle.14) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?Knocking on the door/yard I would want the dog to stay somewhat quiet. I understand a bark and or greeting is unavoidable, but I don't want to have to lock up the dog before I'm able to open the door.I would prefer dogs that are friendly to strangers/visitors.15) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?Yes.16) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?No.Lifestyle17) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?I work during the week, but right now I work close enough to work I can stop in during lunch. I would say 8 hours a day split between 4 hour shifts with a 30-60 min break in the middle. I also would probably utilize doggy hotel once a week or so and/or dog walkers if I end up moving/changing jobs.18) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?Just me. I'll be taking care of everything.19) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?No.20) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?No.21) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?Rent. Aggressive breeds are banned. No wieghy restrictions.22) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?No.23) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?It's Minnesota. Summer can get hot (80-90 degrees) and winters stupid cold (< 0).Additional Information and Questions24) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.As mentioned, I currently live alone ina townhome and looking to adopt a young adult dog (1-3 years old). I have access to large communal yard and direct access to walking trails and beach/lake/parks.25) Feel free to ask any questions below.None right now. via /r/dogs http://ift.tt/2qZOF9E
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