Hi - we are hoping to become new dog owners very soon, but aren't sure whether to get a dog or a bitch puppy - or even if it really matters. What thoughts do others have on this please?

There is no way of answering this, it's too personal. For my part I prefer bitches but others prefer dogs! There is only one way to find out!

Not a lot of help, am I

Sorry, John

Hi John

No - it's a tricky one, isn't it? What are the pros and cons? I guess dogs are bigger/stronger and might chase the ladies ;) It will be mainly my 9 year old daughter's dog, so do you think that might make a difference?

Dogs can have the "Macho" thing but tend to settle when the pecking order is settled. Bitches don’t do Macho but if they don’t like another dog they never will!

Dogs are inclined to "Mark" their territory, Bitches generally don’t except occasionally you will get one who does when she’s coming into season.

People say dogs are more loving, RUBBISH! A bitch will chase dogs when in season whereas a dog will chase bitches all the time!

Dogs have simple characters, Bitches are like women, very complicated!

After well over a hundred years studying dogs coming into my club (I'm very old!) I can definitively say, women like dogs, men like bitches!

(I'm sure others will disagree with me!!!)

Obviously you will need to be careful with a puppy around a child in the early stages although at 9 years old your daughter is hardly a baby. I cannot think of anything better than a child with a good dog. If shes interested in that kind of thing have a look at the KCJO. (Kennel Club Junior Organisation). They do shows, training seminars, summer camps and the like.

Best wishes, John ;)

Hey John.... I like my bitches too :P ;) :D :D :D
But I do admire a gentleman who admits to liking complicated females :D :D :D
toodles

Izzie, what breed are you getting?Oops, just read the heading... I usually pay more attn. to the post. Sorry
Ya know, if you really don't have your heart set on a particular gender, just go see the pups and figure out which latches on to you :)
good luck

Hi all,

I until recently swore but my bitches but my " Wee man" has changed my view. ( Westie)

He is so good, loving and laid back my wee bitch chases him about and pulls him off me when he is up getting a cuddle. My btich is the one who does all the barking also.

I can just hear John now..LOL John is right it is personal choice.

BFN

Pam

Hi thanks both - food for thought!!
Great suggestion about the Junior Kennel Club - daughter has been dog mad for years, and starts each morning with the question "Can I have a dog?" We've finally caved in, but want to do it all properly. I think you're right - we've just got to visit and see which one appeals to us most, and vice versa!

Suspect husband would say he has enough complicated female in his house already ;)

Izzie

Go have a look at:-

KCJO

Hi Izzie,

We decided to get two boys for the simple reason that they're easier and cheaper to castrate (should we ever feel the need - let this be a warning Hugo!) I've seen /heard that bitches can leave a bit of a mess when in season, dribbling all over the house etc etc.

Hope this helps..

Lady G

Hello again all

Well, spurred on to make a decision we have gone with the gut feel and the majority advice - and have said yes to a yellow dog!!! - eventually - he is only 4 days old so we won't get him until the New Year. Your advice was really helpful - and thanks for the KCJO link, John - but don't feel toooooo responsible - we took loads of verbal advice as well from breeders, friends, and even a friend who is a police dog handler. And if it doesn't seem right when we meet him, maybe we think again then, but I think we're doing the right thing ....wish us luck!!

:)

Don't worry Izzie, once he arrives I just know you will love him to bits! There is something about Labradors. They can be hard work in the early days but the hard work is worth it believe me. I've lived with them now for well over 30 years and hope I will still have them around me in another 30 years!

Best wishes, John

Gosh John, you'll be able to use your telegrams from the Queen for wallpaper by then :D. Ingrid

This is true Ingrid, along with "Retouched" photographs someone scanned for me! ;)

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D Ingrid you're cruel :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Stacey x x x

Moi ????? Never Stacey :p :D

You are, you are!

:( Waaaaaaaah (sorry no wotsit for crying) Ingrid