Decided Against Getting The Puppy...

[poofy]

Glad you got to do a trial, if more people did that it would work out so much better, hope it works out good for you with that sweet girl in the picture

[Crazy-Cat-Lover]

Thanks. I am awaiting an email from a lady who rescues dogs. She has a 5 year old Golden Lab male. Excellent with kids and other dogs, but she hasn't tested him with cats yet (Ihave 3). I will let you know when she emails me back.

[shais_mom]

I think you are making the best decision for you. I am so glad your neighbor allowed a trial run that is good!
yes, labs and Goldens can be hyper but so can any dog. With lots of love, attention and some structure, I am confident you will find the perfect dog for your family, regardless of breed.
My sister has a Springer / lab mix that is excellant with her boys. They can climb all over him and he just lays there. I have a 4 year old Golden that loves them also - I do watch her around them tho b/c they are very boisterous and kind of rough and she isn't used to that and and she has hip dysplasia so I have to watch that they stay away from her back end. I don't want her to defend herself. I usually tell them my bite is worse then her's!

Labs are also hyper.

but most dogs in the shelters and rescues are Lab mixes. You would have a harder time finding one that wasn't considered "lab"..

Good luck!

[K9karen]

Lucky me, my first pup was a GR/Yellow Lab mix-the best of 2 wonderful breeds. I got him as a wee pup and it did take 5 years for him to settle, but we never ever had a problem with him. Just gave him lots of excercise and training. He was easy to train and as smart as a whip. He had his "moments" (loved trash cans, anything paper) but as long as he had 2 tennis balls in his mouth at all times, he was content. I had had no dog experience, so I didn't, unfortunately know to socialize him well, or know about "alpha", but that was totally my fault. I'm glad to hear you did some research and decided the best breed for you. All dogs are different. My friend's yellow lab was also docile and laid back. Cody's mom was the GR, and as calm as could be, so chances are, his dad was the active one. The dog you're chosing is totally gorgeous!