The response you got from the Newf breeder (or any good breeder) is one of the benefits of going that route--you'll have the on-going advice frome someone who knows the breed, the lines, and this individual animal--for life. I still keep in contact with the four breeders we got dogs from.

Clearly, you pay for this kind of "premium." And with any living thing there are no hard-and-fast guarantees about anything.

The commitment you make to this pup, or whatever pup you find, will be a long one--12 years or more, hopefully. And the initial cost of the dog will be a tiny fraction of one drop in the bucket that you spend on it over its lifetime. $250 is one decent trip to the vet's office.

All that said, this rescue lab could be a great dog, probably is, and rescuing her is a noble thing to do. But make sure when you see her or think about this further that this is THE dog--that you're not choosing her because it's convenient, she's available right now, or fairly inexpensive, or nearby---because there are probably 1000 other dogs that would meet those same criteria within 50 miles of your house that are equally as deserving.

All,

Once again I thank you for all your comments!

At this age I'm definitely expecting a crazy maniac running around like nothing else. I know labs are high energy dogs and I've go my house pretty much chew proof (lol, if there such a thing) with exception to my couches, haha. I'd be hopeful the housebroken thing would be well by now too, but I understand I may have to address this as well as other things.

I'm not going to lie about shelters... If I visit one I might take all the dogs home with me, or at least one. lol It would be really tough for me to go there. It might be the best way to go, but its still one of those things that doesn't sit well with me seeing all those dogs homeless.

I guess instead of paying for special breed treatment (no offense to anyone), I'll rely own what I watched and read. Millan's book "Cesar's Way" was really good and I've watched a few episodes of his show to relate his words. Additionally, Ed and his site here has tons of info as well. I've read through much of it and it's truly a great resource to rely on. And last, but not least, is all of you here for info/thoughts and expert advice. You are all truly the best out there! Seriously!

Thanks again!
Kevin

 Quote: Juliana McCabe

Kevin not sure where you are located but if this dog doesn't work out I foster for a rescue based out of Akron Ohio. If it's not too far for you let me know and I can see if any of our dogs would be what you are looking for.

Juliana,

I'm in Northern California. I think it's a bit far, but I'll definitely keep you in mind pending how things go. Thank you!

Kevin

Hi Kevin, I can identify with the loooonnng courtship before committing to taking in a dog. I probably haunted petfinder and craigslist pets for 2 years before finally visiting a shelter. Even then, it took a few visits to get used to the flesh and blood reality of dawg, compared to my romantic notions of life-long companion. I encourage you to look at everything you can on Nothing in Life is Free, Clicker/Marker training, and Calming Signals.

When we adopted, the Shelter charged us for Jethro's puppy classes. They were part of the adoption contract. And then we did a series of one to one consultations with that trainer to help us get oriented, especially to Jethro's needs.

The fact is, there came a day, we visited a shelter, and there was Jethro. He had just come in, having been abandoned in an apartment when the people moved out. He was four months old. Skipper came with Jethro. He had been in the shelter a month and was going crazy in the kennel. No one would adopt him, he wasn't even listed. We weren't planning on bringing home two dogs. Heck, neither of us had owned a dog for at least 15 years!

But the shelter worker said Skipper could help with Jethro, and the two of them had made friends in the short time they had been together. So we came home with two.

I guess I'm trying to say, no matter what you think it is going to be like, it is going to be something else. This board is a wonderful community and there is amazing information here everyday. And everyday is a new adventure when you live with Dawg.

Good shelters know the dogs pretty well and will make an attempt to match a dog to your personality, lifestyle, and needs.

Good luck. I'm sure you'll find the dog you need.

Good luck! I think it is pretty cool you took so much time to research and read on here before actually going out and getting your dog! Shows good commitment!! hope you find your new best friend asap!

Hi Kevin, welcome. I, as well, commend you on your thoughtfulness in choosing your companion. Pedigreed or not, puppy, young adult or senior, you can’t go wrong with a dog for your next best friend.

A lot of work and dedication but there’s just no describing the payback. Good luck in your search.

Thanks for the support all! I went and got Roxie on Friday and had her checked out by the vet. All was well, got her a rabies shot too. She is just full of energy and I've been walking her twice a day which has helped I think. I got a crate and she doesn't do well in it at first, but she settles in for the night pretty quickly and I just tend to ignore her cry's no matter how hard it is to resist. She basically cries any time I close a door behind me and can't see me. I do hope she adjusts in time.

She hasn't been trained very much I don't think. She knows "sit" and that's about it. Plus she jumps all over people which is more of a concern for me right now. She is learning that I don't like to be jumped on, but when we meet other people she gets really excited and it's tough to keep her off of folks. I think the excitement takes over and she can't control herself.

Anyways I just wanted to thank you all again, I think she's a fantastic dog and I hope to give her the best home I possibly can! I'll be sure to post any questions I can't readily find answers to.

~Kevin

I'm glad to hear it, I was going to send you a message to ask how it went.

She'll stop crying eventually, just don't return into the room while she's noisy and reward when quiet.

Try redirecting her with a treat or ball when she wants to jump, if she does say uh-uh, walk away - do this consistantly and it'll stop. Reinforce that by not allowing people to pet her unless all 4 feet are on the floor.

Oops, I tried to edit my post so it was a little more informative, but it timed out. Pretty, soon I'll post more details and a picture of the little girl.