Hi, everyone -- I'm new here. I was hoping to get some advice and help me make a decision from you. I had a wonderful GSD, Maggie, who I had to pts a few months ago. She had DM and she had been fighting it for over 2 years. Maggie was 12 when I finally had to make the awful decision to put her down.

Now I'm all by myself and I am a senior. It gets awfully lonely around here. What I would like you to help me figure out is the breed of dog that would make the best companion and since I can't keep up with a real young dog anymore, I will probably consider a senior dog for company. Do you think age 5 or over would be about right? Also, I have looked at some of the available dogs in my area in shelters (breaks my heart-- I wish I could take them all). One shelter has a beautiful female 5 year old GSD mixed with an Elk Hound. I don't know the temperment of an Elk Hound but I love GSD's. Another shelter has a forlorn looking female 5 year old Yellow Lab mix. The GSD is hard to confine according to the person who surrendered her and might be a handful. The yellow lab was found as a stray and doesn't play with the other dogs. She looks like she needs a really good friend.

Please share your thoughts with me and thanks for your time,
Dar S

[CorkyMax]

Hi! Welcome to the forum.
I understand where you are coming from----I am 1 yr. younger than you, retired (Dec. 2006)--have a cocker/golden retriever mix (Corky) who will be 11 on June 13, and a cocker (Max) who just turned 10 the 1st of April. I think about that they will probably be 'gone' in a couple more yrs. (Can't stand the thought of it--they are my kids!) I also live alone. And I know I will have to have another dog (only one this time) when these 2 are gone. I really shouldn't because it is getting pretty expensive to take care of a dog anymore! I would like another cocker but prob. won't--too much grooming and some can be tempermental---If I was younger I prob. would get another cocker. I've decided I want a little smaller dog this next time--one that I can hold in my lap and one that I can walk more easily without all the pulling---mine aren't trained very well. I have a few health issues and need a dog I can 'handle' better. I also want one that doesn't have tendencies to a lot of health problems. I had thought about a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, but read they are highly prone to heart disease--very common. My problem is, I like big dogs and long hair! Haven't really decided yet what I want, but I have a book that gives info on the dif. breeds-----I will quote what it says about 3 breeds that maybe you might think about. Some questions I have though---Do you live in an apartment or in the country---room for a type dog that needs a lot of exercise---long hair or short hair make a difference---
One of the problems I have is that I feed a raw diet mostly--and what happens if I die before the dog---who is going to feed the way I do (It would never eat dog food and I wouldn't want it to.) I have to find answers to that and where would my dog go?! Will end this post and come right back with the dog breeds I have to tell you about. If a post gets too long--it automatically doesn't get posted!

[CorkyMax]

I also thought about shelter dogs but from everything other members have mentioned about the problems associated with a lot of them--at my age, etc. not sure I want to deal with that--plus the diet would not have been raw fed. But I prob. will check out some dogs there and you know if you see a forlorn looking dog--you know what might happen, lol! I don't think I'd want an older dog though--pretty set in it's ways and more costlier as is older and needs more care--vetwise. Best get on with this or I might have to post a 3rd reply!
Miniature Schnauzer (my parents always had this breed--only thing I didn't like was the shorter hair, lol!) A dog of clean habits and neat size--makes a delightful little companion for an apt. dweller or someone with a small house and yard. Pet Facts: Spirited, lively, affectionate Daily brushing Regular, moderate exercise Excellent watchdog Health Problems: Reasonably healthy dogs, although they may suffer from bladder stones, liver disease, skin disorders and cysts. Prone to cysts, known as 'Schnauzer bumps' (Note: As far as health problems---most dogs are prone to a lot of them so don't think this is many--very few compared to most breeds!) Noted for their reliability and affectinate nature. They are spirited and brave, and while not aggressive they will take on much larger dogs should the need arise. They enjoy long, brisk, daily walks, and relish play sessions off the leash. Male-12-14 inches (shouler height) 11-18#s Female--11-13 inches and 10-15#s.
Another post coming up! Bear with me!

[CorkyMax]

Minature Poodle: (the word here is minature as the Standard is much larger-45-70#'s!) I thought I didn't like these dogs because of the way they look--but if they aren't 'groomed' that 'crappy' way most are--they kind of appeal to me. Male: 11-15 inches & 15-17 #'s Female: Same! Considered by many, the most intelligent of all breeds, the Poodle makes a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming agressive. It has a great sense of fun, loves to play and will feel slighted if left out of family activities. Somewhat sensitive, it may become jealous of children. Loyal Reg. moderate exercise Ideal for apt. living, but needs plenty of exercise BE AWARE: When purchasing a puppy, check carefully for genetic disorders These dogs fret if not given enough human company. Once a poodle owner---fanciers of this breed seldom become attached to another. The winning ways of these clever animals captivate almost everyone. Although they adore water and love to go for walks, they are not demanding as far as exercise goes. They will, however keep in better spirits and be fitter if given regular opportunities to run and play off the leash. Health Problems: A long-lived breed, Poodles are, nevertheless, subject to many genetic diseases. Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy may cause blindness, and allergies and skin conditions are common. Minatures are subject to diabetes, epilepsy and heart disease. (Still not as long a list of health problems as some others have---The key is to be aware of the issues they could have and do all you can to prevent the problem from happening--like nutrition and other aids.
Guess one more post coming up!

[CorkyMax]

Pug: Not at all pugnacious, this lovable softie is even-tempered and good with children. Pugs love company and only want to be your best friend, but they will sulk if left out of family activities. Male: 12-14 inches & 13-20#s
Female: 10-12 inches & 13-18#s Intelligent, easily trained, and with a big bark for its size, the Pug makes a good watchdog. It is playful, loyal and affectionate and makes a captivating companion that will shadow your every move or curl up in your lap. The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush and comb with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. Clean the creases on the face regularly. Strong dogs with short straight legs, Pugs enjoy energetic games and will keep in better health if given reg. exercise. Don't overfeed as Pugs will eat more than is good for them, quickly becoming obese and living much shorter lives. The Pug has a jaunty, rolling gait that is quite distinctive. Health Problems: Pugs are stressed by both hot and cold weather and are accustomed to living indoors. They are prone to allergies and the short muzzle contributes to chronic breathing problems.
Prone to sinus and breathing problems. BE AWARE: A Pug's prominent eyes are prone to injury. Pet Facts: Smart, sociable, mischievious Daily brushing
Regular, moderate exercise Well, let me know what you think!! Bye for now.