Just a few words I would like to say about our canine friends. Remember when making the decision to bring a dog or puppy home, think twice, it is a HUGE commitment. They will be with you for 10 plus years, and should be treated as part of the family. To many people see that cute puppy, and a year or 2 later (or even a few months) decide its too much work, time, effort, something better came along.... I could devote a whole site to these irresponsible people (I hope you are not one!) . Please read the Dogs Bill of Rights before you decide.
So when it is time to get a dog or a puppy, and if you have a place in your heart for one please, please, please, consider a rescue or a puppy from your local SPCA before you plunk down the $$$ for a pure bred puppy. There are so many wonderful friends waiting for someone like you. I have several links that are excellent resources, especially in So. California.
I have done both. I have a purebred Akita, Kodiak, who is almost 12 years old. I have had her through thick and thin. She is so devoted to me, it is amazing. She and I have even been to UC Davis to the Behavioral Science Clinic, when she became so animal aggressive I was considering having her euthanised. I had my beloved Labrador/Newfoundland cross Bear for 13 1/2 years, my hubby had a wonderful Coonhound/Doberman/Rotteweiler/? mix for 10 years. Now Sprocket the little foundling, a Cairn Terrier, we think pure bred, but who really cares. He is a friend. That is what is most important.
