adult vs. puppy?

[A&A]

Please help me decide on adopting a 5 mo. puppy (Border Collie mix) or a 4 yo. adult (lab). Both are female.

I know this is general but what are the pros and cons? I'm kind of leaning toward the adult at this point in time.

[A&A]

I just read this thread:

http://www.mothering.com/discussions...ighlight=puppy

which was very helpful. Any other thoughts would be great, too.

[Ola_]

I'm a big fan of adopting adult dogs, but most of all I would choose based on the individual dogs. What are their personalities like, exercise needs, temperament, how are they around kids (if you have any)?

[Sailor]

I'm a fan of adult dogs for a variety of reasons. Assuming you go through a rescue, we REALLY try to make sure that the dog is suited to you. We've evaluated the dogs - very thoroughly. I heavily volunteer in GSD rescue, and I'm there almost every day with the dogs. I do basic training with them, exercise, etc. So, I know them really well. As does everyone who works there. We want their next home to be a forever home - so, we make sure they match you.

Which means, with an adult dog, you're probably getting a dog that, at the very least, is house broken and knows some basic commands. You will know his energy level, and his exercise needs. You'll know of any issues, i.e. doesn't like cats, or is ok with cats, etc. His character/temperament is pretty set - so, again, no real surprises.

Plus, an adult dog is A LOT less work than a puppy. I mean, there is an adjustment period (of course). But, after that period - it's all downhill (in a good way).

A puppy is great too. I'm not anti-puppy! My GSD was a puppy when I got him. But, they're a lot of work. It's like having another child.

The best dog for you is the one that will match your needs. You know best what you can handle. If you have the time and energy for a puppy - go for it. If that puppy breed matches your needs/expectations - go for it. If you don't want to live through the puppy years - go for the adult dog, assuming, of course, the lab matches your needs/expectations.

[A&A]

My dd is very in love with the adult dog, so I think we're leaning that way.

Thanks!

[lilyka]

well just depends on what you want. for breed I would want the border collie over the lab. but if I had getting a dog to do all over again i would get an adult over a puppy hands down.

[number572]

I had a lab and she was the most amazing dog. Labs and borders are both very smart and are both good with kids according to their breed traits. My lab needed waaay less exercise than my border collie/australian shepherd mix does. My border mix is easier to keep clean and has cleaner ears naturally. If I had that choice, and had kids, I'd go for the adult lab. Puppy training takes alot of time and dedication in order to be effective lifelong. Borders are fabulous but really need so much more walking time and mental stimulation than other breeds. They take alot more time than labs, ime. Labs still require alot of playtime & exercise but borders are over the top - mine NEEDs very long walks and several play sessions per day - my lab really enjoyed long naps . Plus, if your dd is leaning toward the lab, she'll be thrilled to have her favorite dog. Enjoy our new pup, either way!

Not sure if its an option, but having both my lab and my border mix at the same time was alot of fun for them, they played together very well & kept each other company - if you'd be up for adopting both. It is a lot of dog, tho.