i would like a black or choc lab to take walks i have 6 small elderly dogs and having just moved to the country they find the going a bit tough and are quite happy in the large garden therfor i would like a lab to keep me company when i go out sketching would a rescue dog fit in with the others or would it be better to get a puppy

I think its lovely and to anyones credit if they can home a rescue :)
Puppies will aways find an owner - but it is your choice at the end of the day
As long as you know the dogs history and that it doesnt have any behavioural problems there should be no issue ( by the way , I dont mean to imply rescue dogs do -as people who have a change of lifestyle etc also put perfectly behaved dogs into rescue)
Good luck
plus you have all the fun of a dog without having to undergo all the training and housetraining issues etc

We have a 10 month old labrador we have had from being a pup, we now also have a 14 month old labrador, she settled in very well and is a dream. getting a pup or an older dog is personal preference, and only you can decide which one is best for you. Take a look on www.helpalabrador.co.uk you will be able to discuss in more detail if a rescue is suitable for you. As I have said I have both, and love them both the same and would not be without them.
We all would love to know what you decide to do (really nosy on here) so why don't you register so you can reply
good luck
carol

Hi,

A rescue would be nice, as already mentioned you don't usually have to worry about toilet training and waiting to take them out. Maybe think about an older rescue, maybe over 5 years old, these sometimes have problems finding homes, because everyone wants pups or young dogs. :(

manda
X

I've got a recue staffie - the vet reckons she is about 5 years old.

She is a fantastic dog, but its only fair to tell you I have had terrible problems house-training her. She came from an unknown background and was a bit overwhelmed when she came to us. She had massive insecurity problems, but we have worked with her and she is 99% there (a year later).

All I am saying is don't assume you are going to get a dog without problems from rescue - its swings and roundabouts. If I were you I'd look for a puppy from rescue at 8 to ten months (when the less dedicated owners are finding it harder to cope) :)

Chloe :)

I would say as well getting an older rescue Lab would be better than a pup otherwise your current smaller oldies may find an over exuberant youngster a bit too much ! Also an older dog will be more than happy after a walk to lie besides you and snooze whilst you do your drawing !

Have chat with Glenys or any of the others at Lab rescue and I am sure they will be able to help or point you in the right direction.

Best of luck and let us know what you decide !

Lucy

Hi
As Lucy rightly mentions you may not have time for sketching while chasing a pup around :D
Lesley