Buddy/Playmate/Companion for Jake

[Jake2006]

Hi all

Right, it seems like we've got a property in scotland now with some land. I'd love Jake to have a friend. (It will keep him out of mischief when we are renovating some barns)

What breed of dog should I get? I'm limited to non-shedding as I have asthma and allergies (have to carry an Epipen) so a moulting dog is not an option.

Jake was rescued 8 months ago. He is loyal, obedient, food crazy (but I can take it out of his mouth), toy crazy - when we are out he is totally obsessed with his 'fetching' toy. He loves to swim (well he is a water spaniel) and finds any bog, stream, pond, river or the sea more intersting than the land!

He hasn't played much with other dogs as he's been more interested in us on walks. But, sister-in law has a pug and border terrier and he chases around their garden like a lunatic having great fun.

I would be grateful for any suggestions you may have.

[Maria]

Well Carole, if you can't get another Water spaniel what about a Standard Poodle. I thinking they would be about the same size and do not shed other than that the only other one I can think of is a Labradoodle but that depends on how you feel about so called "designer" breeds.

[zjzoggy]

Many Labradoodles shed like crazy.

Have you thought about an Airedale?

[Jake2006]

I did see a lovely Labradoodle in rescue in Aberdeen but he's been booked!

Standard Poodles are bigger than Jake - he's got a long body but shorter legs - and don't forget he was bullied by the other gun dogs (would a bigger dog intimidate him)?

Carole

[Maria]

Do they zjzoggy, I never knew that, I always thought they were bred so they didn't shed...huh, shows what I know LOL

[Maria]

It would depend on the other dogs nature, soundsl like you need a very laid back one so you would need to vet one carefully:)

[Jake2006]

I didn't know labradoodles shed - I guess it depends what they are crossed with.

Yes, I would love an Irish Water Spaniel but you know what - they are very very rarely rehomed. Even then, if they are and they've been a working gundog the Irish Water Spaniel Association tries to rehome them with a working home. Yes, I've got my name down for one but it may be years before one came up. Its the same with puppies. I wouldn't turn one down of course at a later date - three dogs would be OK.

Given I may not get an IWS FOR 9-12 months I would like a companion for Jake. In addition hubby hasn't got a pooch to spoil on his lap - Jake takes up residence with me!

I'll look into an Airdale.

[Borzoi mad]

Hi Carole Yes it is a fact Labradoodles do shed. It is the Labrador side of them or retriever that causes this, It is not a breed I feel suitable to you for youe Asthma. I would go with the standard poodle perhaps you may be able to get one who is slighly smaller in height, than the breed standard calls for. What about a bedlington Terrier. They are about the size of a Miniature Poodle and are hardy little dogs, you would of course have to look it up on line to see if it sheds, but I don't think they do shed. Glad you have now got a place. Will hear all about it sometime soon. Happy New Year to you and Jake and your o/h and to all on the forum.

[lassie]

Carole a Bichon frise . white just the job!!!!!!!!!!!!! but they dont moult. A standard poodle is great. IMO id wait and go for another IWS.... sandy x

[LesterJ]

Poodles are my first choice. Portuguese Water Dog? Don't know if you have them there. I see some in our neighbourhood, and they seem lovely with curly hair, and being of a medium size. Actually, they look a lot like Jake, but he's a different breed, right? I am not familiar with Irish Water Spaniels, but seeing Jake, I think they are just gorgeous. :)