DS: What's your opinion on dogs as "gifts"?

So, my roommate has been having a really hard time the last several months and has been talking about getting a puppy as long as I've known her (almost a year now), but hasn't ever actually decided on whether or not she wants to actually get one.

Through the grapevine, I found out about an accidental litter belonging to the parents of a friend of mine, and I've told them that I'm possibly interested in one of the pups for my roommate. My plan is to surprise her by taking her to meet the puppies and pick one out, or not, if she doesn't think it's a good idea.

This girl is really great, has a full-time job (that she has an hour-long lunch break from every day to come home and eat or let out a puppy), and is incredibly responsible. I have a dog who she loves and spends plenty of time with, so I know the puppy would always be in good hands. Plus, we'll be roommates for another 3 months, so I'll be able to help her train, housebreak, and socialize the pup at the beginning.

So, what is your opinion, given all of what I've stated? She is financially able to care for a dog, just in case that's someone's argument against it.

2013-05-02T20:51:00Z

That definitely made sense!

The puppies are Border Collie/Lab mixes, both parents on site, and she's always thought Lab mixes are the cutest, so I'm hoping she'll like the breed. And I definitely wanted to make sure that both parents were there so we could meet them and make sure they had good personalities, too.

And I have a lot of experience with pups, especially at the beginning, so I'll be there to help her get through the first few months, which are usually the hardest until you find a system and your pup is used to you.

?2013-05-02T20:34:07Z

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Normally I say it's a bad idea - however, although you're looking to gift her - you're looking to involve her, including respecting her wishes if she says it's a no go.

Given what you've said - it seems like this might be an exception to the rule. Most folks when they gift a puppy, they don't really consider the other person's capability or schedule, much less involve them in choosing the puppy and in the final decision. You're also going to be there for the first few months when potty breaks need to come at shorter intervals. one of the other problems many people fail to consider.

As long as she decides with you she's ready for the commitment timewise, and will have the funds for vet care, good food, and accessories, I don't see an issue in this case.

Teensy and Jacob: Terrier Terrors2013-05-02T21:13:21Z

Though your roommate has the financial part down, how do you know she even wants a puppy just because she has an hour lunch break? I know you said you would be there the first three months, but I still say it's a no go!

Why? Many people like choosing their own dogs and it may be a different dog than what you are trying to bring home to make her feel better. Terrible idea because even though the person loves your dog and says something about getting a new dog, does not mean you go and take them to meet random puppies from a friend.

I know you mean well, but it probably won't work out as you thought it might do. Maybe I'm just grouchy because I hate surprises, especially when it involves animals. What I'm saying is......she may be financially ready, not mentally ready....even though she loves your dog and spends time with it.

Lupen ♀2013-05-02T20:47:14Z

I don't agree with it generally. Though there are cases where it is OK.. It just depends a lot on the individuals and the scenario.

For example. Someone buying their friend a dog for Xmas without the person even expressing they wanted a dog, they just assumed they did, is not ok. The person receiving the gift might not even want the dog, and will most likely have no clue about the breed or dog care in general. The person receiving the dog will be the one ultimately paying for it as well.

Another thing is, is that a lot of people like a certain breed, have done the research on a certain breed and want to pick their own dog out. When someone gives them a random dog, they're stuck with it unless they choose to adopt it out... and the breed/mix they receive might be something they can't handle or have no knowledge about.

An OK scenario is if someone decides to pay for the dog's initial cost, but they GO with their friend/daughter/sister etc. to a shelter or breeder to pick out a dog or talk about it beforehand, rather than actually physically buying the dog themselves and surprising the person with the said dog. .

I hope that made sense.

I'm terrible at explaining stuff like this.

☆ Memphis Belle ☆2013-05-03T03:46:33Z

I am in favour of making a gift of the purchase price, which then allows the recipient to choose a pet dog that fits their requirements, personality, experience and lifestyle.

Your roommate has expressed an interest in purchasing a pet dog, is in a financial position to meet the cost and you would be offering her the choice of taking on a puppy if she finds one that is suitable and not presenting it sight unseen as a gift, which is something I do not agree with.

Nice idea and responsibly thought through before making the offer.

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