Search For Canine Step-Sibling

Dear Dog Lady,

Hi. My name is Lauren and I’m 12 years old. I was thinking of buying a dog (parents’ money) for our family. My favorite type of dog is a Border collie, and that’s what I want to get. But I don't live on a farm, although my property is medium sized (inside, 800 square feet and outside, twelve hundred square feet, about). I was wondering if that's enough space for a dog like the Border collie to run around?

If it's not, what other kind of dog do you think I should get? I’ve never had a dog but my parents have, but the dog is all my responsibility (except for costs). I will also be leaving the dog unattended for about three hours at a time (because of school) I would like a dog that’s not really small like a Yorkie but not huge like a Great Dane, and my parents don't want a yippy dog.

What do you think the right dog for me is?

Lauren, Cleveland, OH

Lauren, getting a Border collie would be like allowing a Samurai shepherd to share your space. Border collies are dogs on a mission – to corral everybody into the pasture. People who choose Border collies have been known to surrender themselves exclusively to the needs of their pets. Jon Katz, a former network TV producer who now makes a living writing about his dogs, bought a farm and a flock of sheep to keep his Border collies happy. Sounds like you are in no position to do this.

As tempting as it is to tell you exactly what kind of dog to get, Dog Lady leaves it to you to make the final choice. Go to the library or scour the Internet to read about the different breeds and the demands of each variety. Talk to people out with dogs in your neighborhood (make sure one of your parents is with you). Also, visit your local animal shelter and see the animals up for adoption. Maybe one will choose you.

Whatever dog you bring home, it is going to need exercise during the day and a safe place to sleep when everybody’s gone. While you can leave your pet unattended for three hours at a time, you will have to walk your new sweetheart at least three times a day.

Yes, caring for your dog will be work, but your efforts will be rewarded. When you fall in love with your canine step-sibling, Dog Lady promises the rest will be easy.

Posted by Dog Lady at December 3, 2005 02:14 PM