Dog advice

[Never Compromised]

Cat.

I'm in a condo, and a friend asked me to look after her dog for 2 weeks.

Up in the morning, walkies first thing.

Get home, walkies right away.

just before bed, walkies.

I am not near a dog park, which means the dog had to be on leash at all times. Which means more than a 20 minute walk in order to get the dog to expend enough energy that he did not run around barking in the unit.

You can't slip away for a weekend without finding someone to look after the dog. And dogs seem to get stinking much faster than other animals.

Dogs are pack animals and do not do well alone.

Cats, can be very affectionate, it depends how they are treated. One can leave a large bowl of dry food down, enough water, and a 2nd litter box and go for a 3 day weekend and return to a happy cat. If you are thinking of a cat, get 2. Although they are solitary, they do prefer company. They chose to either sleep along or together, be solitary or play with each other.

 

[tired old perv]

I'd advise against anyone in a city getting a dog. Its just a cruel way of life for them. Dogs love to run, and to run, they need room. Also a noisy dog, could make your life a living hell with the neighbours,

By all means, get a cat.

They are independant, but are much better suited to indoor living and being alone for long stretches.

 

[Neverenuff$]

fuck that,if you are going to get a stuffed animal you might as well get a stuffed chick http://www.realdoll.com/

But honestly if you have to ask if you should get a dog you shouldn't (no offense meant, just my opinion, like having a kid)

Actuall a real doll is a chick you can stuff

 

[tboy]

I'd advise against anyone in a city getting a dog. Its just a cruel way of life for them. Dogs love to run, and to run, they need room. Also a noisy dog, could make your life a living hell with the neighbours,

By all means, get a cat.

They are independant, but are much better suited to indoor living and being alone for long stretches.

You do have a very good point about the noise. IMO there is nothing worse than a barking dog and in a condo, you COULD get into big trouble with your condo board because any noise, smell or ?? cannot be noticed outside of your unit.

In fact, I believe that after 11 pm you can be ticketed for a noise violation.

 

[ElenaUkraine]

From a dog lover to you, your best option is a cat. A cat would be the perfect indoor pet as they need minimum care and will love the attention when you are home.

100% right! Unfair to dog if you cannot take care.

 

[sybarites]

There are plenty of dogs that can be left for many hours each day and have happy lives.When picking a dog, pick a breed that is more independent by nature.And when you pick from the litter,don't choose the pup that is pleading for attention but choose the one that appears a little standoffish.

 

[Tangwhich]

I wonder if he's wanting a dog for the chick factor? You know, nothing attracts women like a kid or a dog (although a dog is easier in the long run lol).

Smaller breeds like shih tzus Llhasa Apsos and little toy breeds can be paper trained and do well in condos. But like Rub said, you need to give them plenty of attention before and after work. A dog takes a LOT more dedication than other pets.

I have to ask: why are you thinking of getting a pet? The reasons behind it can help determine what you get. As suggested there are lots of other types of animals out there that make great pets. I mean, a corn snake is very docile, doesn't bark, doesn't have accidents, doesn't shred your furniture, and only needs a mouse once a week - once every 4 days.

As stated, you're looking at a 10 - 15 yr commitment so don't enter into it lightly.

Whatever you do, do NOT get a jack russell terrorist. Not in a condo. It will drive you nuts and are too high strung. They need constant attention and a back yard to hunt in.

I definitely do not want one for the chick factor.. I've always liked dogs and have always wanted one. I like the companionship they bring, the loyalty, the love and they make going out for a walk fun (for the most part at least )

I don't like cats at all because they have none of the qualities that make a dog great (IMO, I'm not looking for a debate).. and pretty much any other type of pet, particuarly things like snakes to me are pointless, there's no love and affection there.. just feed them and clean their mess up, what's the point?

 

[papasmerf]

I would really like to get myself a small dog.. however I live alone and work during the day, so I'd have to leave it alone for hours at a time.

I've always thought that that's unfair on the dog, but I've been told that there are some breeds that are OK with that (like a cat).. Does anyone have any opinions on this?

Thanks..

BTW, I live in a medium sized condo.

Get a wife instead of a dog,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,she can find things to occupy herself.


No time equals no pet.

 

[red]

I think he barking up the wrong tree here

 

[scouser1]

I'd advise against anyone in a city getting a dog. Its just a cruel way of life for them. Dogs love to run, and to run, they need room. Also a noisy dog, could make your life a living hell with the neighbours,

By all means, get a cat.

They are independant, but are much better suited to indoor living and being alone for long stretches.

living in a city is cruel for a dog and they love to run!!! sure if you are talking about high energy breeds but millions of dogs do just fine in the city, and ever met a shih tzu or a pug not exactly run around the country type of dogs hehehhe. As for the barking, as long as the dog is properly exercised and the owner has control by training the dog barking is never an issue.

 

[tboy]

I definitely do not want one for the chick factor.. I've always liked dogs and have always wanted one. I like the companionship they bring, the loyalty, the love and they make going out for a walk fun (for the most part at least )

I don't like cats at all because they have none of the qualities that make a dog great (IMO, I'm not looking for a debate).. and pretty much any other type of pet, particuarly things like snakes to me are pointless, there's no love and affection there.. just feed them and clean their mess up, what's the point?

Hmmm I don't know any animal that "loves". You're mistaking love for "gimme my dam food already" lol.

 

[The Cunning Linguist]

Besides the option of using a dog walker, there is also the option of "doggie daycare".

Just like kids daycare, you drop them off on the way home, and pick them up on the way back.

Investigate a doggie daycare or dog walker BEFORE you get your dog.

Just in my opinion, but you have to have at least a house with backyard before getting a dog....a condo won't cut it.

There's one option you might want to consider before completely commit to getting a dog....foster one for a few weeks from Toronto Humane Society.
That will really be the test if a dog can fit into your current lifestyle.

As for cats, you could be surprised at how affectionate a cat can be, and how much personality they can exhibit. I/we have 4 cats and a dog, and one of our cats thinks and acts like a dog in some ways.