This may have already been mentioned in this thread...but most breeders of purebred dogs also often have adult dogs for sale. Those that were held back as possible breed stock that didn't make the cut--or retired dogs. And clearly those breeders would know their dogs' temperament and be able to place the right dog in your situation. If you decide that you still want to go the route of buying a purpred, it might be worth your while to contact reputable breeders and find out if they have any adult dogs. Breed communities are pretty tight. If one breeder doesn't have an adult dog to place, they know a breeder who does.

Thats how we got our English Setter. She was 7yrs old. She's a dog you could handle with small kids no problem Francis. A retired show dog, was bred a couple times, spayed, and now sleeps on the couch. She's perfect for family walks and just hanging out.

I'm going to chime in with the "rescue" chorus. I think it's a GREAT idea, although I'm not sure a Greyhound would be the way to go based on the first post. They ARE lazy but they do need at least a good hour or so walk daily and should be given opportunities to run at least weekly.

Most of them are tolerant of children, but they don't have a lot of padding on their bodies so they are easy to hurt. They do better with older children imho, though I know there are some who would disagree with me.

 Quote: Tracy Collins

If you decide that you still want to go the route of buying a purpred, it might be worth your while to contact reputable breeders and find out if they have any adult dogs.

That is how I got my crew. Dogs returned to breeders for various reasons and those that didn't cut the 'title' mustard. Most are wanting these dogs to go to their forever homes. Shelter adoptions are good for everyone-dog as well. In our area the shelter employees aren't the best judge of dog, they seem to be more into rotation. An open space is another space to fill, relief. Around here those that volunteer know the dogs the best. The rescue groups that use foster homes are helpful to knowing of the dogs.

I know you are looking for the right dog for your family, but there are some things you might want to consider first. Right now, I can see that you guys want an easy laid back dog who doesn't need his walk daily, but when your kids become at age 5 and 6 years old their energy level will go up. Have you thought about if they want to take a dog to the park and play ball for an hour? Somewhere to take on a long walk, bike with it, or to play hide and seek game in the backyard for hours and hours? Let's suppose this dog is too tired to play, and kids beg you to get another dog who is more active. How do you think about that?

This is something I would think about... I don't want you to think that I'm telling you to get a dog that is too much for your family. My concern would be you don't want to set up yourself a big disappointment if you chose to go with a lazy dog.

My advice might not be too popular in here, but I suggest you to wait until your kids are old enough. See where it fits in your family and you can decide better on which dog to pick.

English setters are beautiful, one of my very favorites. Gentle, sweet and loving. Great kids dog.

For a companion dog, I will always look at a rescue. I currently have 2 rescues in my house; Shyner and Tyra. Both have very sweet personalities and actually, are very lazy.

I always feel sad for the senior dogs that end up in shelters. I look at the frosty faces and want to bring them all home. If I had the space I would do it, too. I think that senior dogs that have ended up in rescue are the ones who need homes the most.. they lived many years with a family, and are suddenly in a cage or run. Nobody wants to adopt them because they think they will die too soon. I think that even just a short time of giving that dog a wonderful and loving home, is worth the tears in the end.

Just my 2 cents. Good luck with your search, and I hope you find the perfect dog for your situation.

--Kelly

Golden words, Kelly. After reading your post I am having a very hard time not rushing to the shelter right this minute. The look in the older dogs eyes just breaks my heart. Next time we adopt we'll definitely try to help a senior.

 Quote: Kelly At Leerburg

For a companion dog, I will always look at a rescue. I currently have 2 rescues in my house; Shyner and Tyra. Both have very sweet personalities and actually, are very lazy.

I always feel sad for the senior dogs that end up in shelters. I look at the frosty faces and want to bring them all home. If I had the space I would do it, too. I think that senior dogs that have ended up in rescue are the ones who need homes the most.. they lived many years with a family, and are suddenly in a cage or run. Nobody wants to adopt them because they think they will die too soon. I think that even just a short time of giving that dog a wonderful and loving home, is worth the tears in the end.

Just my 2 cents. Good luck with your search, and I hope you find the perfect dog for your situation.

--Kelly

Frosty muzzles... oh my goodness. Who could let go an older dog?? (I'm going to believe it is for reasons beyond their control...) Deep sigh.

Just thinking of my old girl in a shelter is enough to bring me to tears.

There is such a calm and loyal dignity to senior dogs.

She has been with me so long our rythyms are just in sync. There is almost no need for any real commands or me having to tell her what to do at this point. Honestly often I just say her name and make eye contact and she knows what she should do.

We just live together and it is lovely.