Need some help/advise.....

[L.West]

Good News Update. After talking it over with my husband - I have decided to go with my first choice of breeds (Boston Terrier) but don't plan to get a puppy until early 2013 due to how busy life is right now. Boston's are way more expensive than a dachshund which is why I was leaning towards a Boston but my hubby said that if you are going to make a 15+ year commitment - you better get what you really want.

I have been in touch with a good breeder and have put a deposit for pick of the litter come 2013. I am super excited about getting a new puppy and I have plenty of time to get projects done at home, plus purchase all the supplies I will need to properly care for her. Another plus is that my vacation time at work starts over in Jan. and I want to spend at least the first 2 weeks home with her getting the potty training off to a good start.

Just wanted to let you all know how this ended up.

[Mike41793]

Boston Terriers are like a million times cooler than daschunds! I approve!

[Anatopism]

Lol. Was actually going to suggest a Boston over a Dachshund, but didn't want to push my preferences Great choice though

Remember.. look for eyes that look as straight as possible, aren't too bulgy, and a snout that is closer to a 90 degree angle tot he forehead, rather than being too squished into the face. You're more likely to have fewer eye problems, and breathing (and farting) problems

[L.West]

The Boston Terrier was always my first choice but I was trying to save some money by going with a dachshund - lol.

In the end, we secured our place for pick of the litter next year so I am super excited.

I'm a planner and love to have all this time to prepare and get stuff ready for the little tyke. I reading every book I can get my hands on to learn more about the breed.

We have asked for a girl first choice but will consider a boy too.

Thanks all!!!!!

[wolfy-hound]

If you get a girl, get her spayed early to prevent a accidental pregnancy, since Bostons can have major issues giving birth. It's common for them to have 2 puppy litters, so getting pick of the litter could mean you get the ONLY puppy or one of the two available. Good choice.

You should make certain about the parent's knees, eyes and nasal issues too. Bad knees, dental issues, eye issues and nasal issues(as well as cleft palate) can crop up.

Dachunds are actually great dogs, you just need to train/raise them like a german shepard or bulldog. They don't know they're mini. They also have major issues with obesity, which for THEM is dangerous because a couple extra pounds can put way too much stress on the spine. We have a lot of great dachund clients and a few annoying ones. None of our clients are barkers, but I know a few people who have mentioned barking dachunds too.

Good luck with the new puppy next year. Make sure you keep the facial folds cleaned with baby wipes.

[sissysnakes]

If you get a girl, get her spayed early to prevent a accidental pregnancy, since Bostons can have major issues giving birth. It's common for them to have 2 puppy litters, so getting pick of the litter could mean you get the ONLY puppy or one of the two available. Good choice.

You should make certain about the parent's knees, eyes and nasal issues too. Bad knees, dental issues, eye issues and nasal issues(as well as cleft palate) can crop up.

Dachunds are actually great dogs, you just need to train/raise them like a german shepard or bulldog. They don't know they're mini. They also have major issues with obesity, which for THEM is dangerous because a couple extra pounds can put way too much stress on the spine. We have a lot of great dachund clients and a few annoying ones. None of our clients are barkers, but I know a few people who have mentioned barking dachunds too.

Good luck with the new puppy next year. Make sure you keep the facial folds cleaned with baby wipes.

I am not sure I agree with spaying too early. I normally prefer to wait 6-9 months before spaying, or sometime after their first heat. I have had a lot of small (rescued) dogs experience complications from being spayed to early and I have found that waiting until the dog is bigger not only gives it time to mature a bit but also makes it a lot easier to spay. Ultimately its up to you and the vet that you trust... This is just from my experience both from rescue dogs and breeding. If your careful and you watch her when she is in heat then you wont have any problems with accidental pregnancy (not to mention she most likely will not go into heat until the 6-10 month range).

[Melville]

I am not a huge fan of small breeds because they usually are generally nervous, yappy, and challenging to house break. I took a opportunity and got a chihuahua maltese mix and she is one of the best pets I've ever possessed.