Dear Miss Paws: Our family is considering acquiring a new dog for the holidays. Do you have any suggestions about breeds, puppy vs. older dog, etc.?A. It’s wonderful that you are opening your home to a new pet! As far as a specific breed goes, your choice should depend upon the make-up of your family, i.e., small children, how many people, a large fenced yard, etc. These days, with all the unclaimed dogs from the hurricanes, particularly Katrina, I think adopting a dog from one of the many shelters is not only the best thing for your family, but also the most generous of your choices. Shelters across the country have taken animals to assist with the over-crowding in New Orleans shelters, so they are readily available in the area. Most people think “puppy” when considering a new canine family member. Puppies are appealing – and a lot of work. They eliminate everywhere – often, chew stuff, have miserably sharp teeth, need lots of vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, training classes and tons of attention. They have boundless energy and often can’t – or shouldn’t – be left along all day. Shelters and rescue groups have a steady supply of senior Setters, aging Am Staffs, geriatric German Shepherds, timeworn terriers, elderly Elkhounds, mature mix breeds and more. Of the benefits attached to an older dog – it may already be housetrained. If not, He’s usually physically capable of “holding it” once he’s introduced to the concept. He’s probably calmer than a puppy, well past the chewing stage, already neutered and probably less needy overall. Puppies may be in great demand, generally, but seniors wait and wait – sometimes for the remainder of their lives – for a new forever family to recognize their irresistible qualities and take them home. You can do a good deed and avoid puppy headaches by adopting an older dog.
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