Hi, I am new to all this but hopefully you can help me. We have a 10-month old baby and would like to get a dog, thinking of a Golden Retriever. Is it a good idea to get a dog at this stage or should we wait until the baby is older? Also is it better to get a puppy (can be too clumsy, sharp teeth?) or an older dog, maybe a rehomed one where we can still see the background/history? We have a very large back garden, husband is at work all day so it would be me, baby and dog.

Look forward to any input you have, many thanks.

I would personally wait if your want a puppy, as both the baby and a pup are going to be really hard work for at least the next two years it would still be hard work keeping them from being able to hurt each other unintentionally for some years. 

An older dog already used to children whose history is known would be better as it would give you time to really get a mutually trusting relationship with  the dog before your child becomes a very mobile toddler.  Of course a child should always be supervised around any animal.

No experience of GR and babies but know how difficult it is having a toddler and puppy. You really need eyes in the back of your head with 2 mischievous beings :-) both being potty trained, socialised and tired out. We had a springer cross border collie when my son was a toddler and it was really difficult keeping an eye on both. They were best friends and Beau never left Chris' side but it was very hard work giving both the attention they required. Taking a pup to classes requires babysitters etc and I never went out other than to train the dog!!. Perhaps an older dog may be a better option and you may be lucky and get one with a full history. But I think you are on the right track coming here :-)
Angela

HI,  I have 6 goldens and a 4 year old and a 6 month old. Personally i think it would be hard work but if you are around all day and you have an area where the pup/dog can go to get away from the baby then i dont see why it would be a problem. My dogs get on great with my children but puppies can be very boisterous. Ive currently got a 16 week old male who can be really rough with my lad when hes in to play so you have to remember that a 10 month old wouldnt be able to push it away or run off once they were fed up. I think with common sense you will be fine, as long as all contact is supervised and pup has its own quiet area. I think if baby was older he/she may get a lot more from growing up with a pup so pros and cons really.
mel.

Thanks for all that, that all makes sense so we'll probably try and go for an older dog. Now where would that special one, is it best to speak to various breeders in my area?

Your local breed club will have a rescue coordinator. The national website has a list here.

i shouldn't think you'd have to much trouble finding an older golden with a full history. their a popular breed and there are (sadly) always folk moving overseas etc who need homes for their pet. by taking on an older one in that sort of situation you;d be doing the owners a favour to...breed clubs and breed specific rescues would be able to help out.