I think that, after having a GSD, you won't be happy until you have another. It's a tough decision, knowing how many dogs are in shelters. Wish I could help you more. There are GSD's in shelters that need homes.
Then again, I can offer another way to look at it. A puppy is a pain in the neck. Truly a pain. Even the really calm mellow ones. They don't appreciate what you do for them. They're demanding. The world revolves around them. They're really selfish. I'm living with a young puppy right now. I always forget this, til I get a new demanding roommate that refuses to do anything herself, won't listen to me, wakes me up all hours of the night, and tends to get snippy. Or is that 'snappy"?Originally Posted By: IntuitDog A question to consider might be do you believe that you can bond with an rescued GSD (1 year or older) as well as you might with a puppy? How do you bond with your pets? For some, puppy mode is where they find they bond best, kind of like a blank slate. Most of my bonding has come by way of helping a rescue dog (including purebred, AKC registered, thrown-away like trash GSDs) find his way back to health and confidence. If you choose to go the rescue route, I have no doubt there is a dog out there for you, especially since you have experience with the breed and are in a position to look for the right dog. You mentioned your partner is on the road a lot - your new addition will have to be a match with him too which will make the decision process a little harder if you go rescue. Perhaps the decision actually lies with how much patience you will have - a purchased puppy is instant gratification while a rescue puppy will take more time and work. Oh, and by the way, there are PB GSD puppies out there for rescue from time to time too! Good luck - please let us know how the decision making goes. ITD
I have a 14 yr golden/border x and I have to say that a GSD is much more fulfilling, I can't imagine ever again living with another breed. I did try with Clover, thought a golden x would be a great family dog, but I just love the shepherds soo much(I had an 11 yr old GSDx when clover was a pup). I think an older adoptee that gets overlooked would be so grateful to be in a forever home, you wouldn't be disappointed!!Originally Posted By: kasbn
I do believe my gut and heart wants a GSD. Most things about a GSD can be said about other breeds. But we all have our favorite breeds. My sister has labs. Just can't seem to admire them as much as the GSD.
Please accept my condolences in the death of your dear dog.Quote:...I think an older adoptee that gets overlooked would be so grateful to be in a forever home, you wouldn't be disappointed!!Good luck with whatever you do, and grieve as long as you have to. The empty place will easily fill up as there are sooo many waiting for a forever home.![]()