I would only get one if it was what they really wanted and they sort of had one picked out. But I wouldn't just go to any place and buy any dog and drop it off at their house. Mickey was sort of a Christmas gift from my parents since we got him December 14, but it wasn't like they bought ANY dog for us.

I did that once when I was younger. I was such an idiot, my "friend" wanted a cat really bad and she lied and told us her grandparents (she lived with them) didn't mind so we went out and got her one for Christmas. Her grandmother threw a fit and they had to give the cat up to her friend. (I guess it turned out okay, considering he could have gone to the shelter but it was a stupid idea) Young stupid minds

I think smokey the elder has a good idea, although I've never heard of that. it sounds good.