We got our boxer at the shelter. He is 2 and the best decision we ever made. We are so in love with him.

I agree I'm not longer under their roof, only problem is they still usually have good advice and they still help us out a ton until I finish my law degree.

 

I'm not saying to completely ignore your parents. They usually do have sound advice as they've experienced way more than we have. However, this is something you can decide on your own IMO. It's a decision, good or bad, that will not effect anyone. If you decide you can't handle it, then you can easily find the dog a good home. You're never going to know if you don't try. As long as your landlord is cool with it, then I'd say to definitely go for it. You seem to know what it takes to own a dog.

I totally agree with Rockmom. If you decide to get a dog, make sure it is crate-trained. Personally, I think a crate-trained dog is a much better, all around behaved dog. Plus, my dog loves his crate. If the house is getting a little too rowdy for him, he will just go and lay down in his crate.

If you had your own home, I would say, go for it! Raising a puppy is fun. We had a puppy before we had our children and though she is long gone, she is still my favorite dog.

 

However, the fact that you live in an apartment, that doesnt allow dogs is a concern. Though other tenants may do it, you will be 100% responsible for any damage your dog does. As a landlord (with a no pet policy) I have never returned the security deposit on someone with a dog (and sneaking pets in is nothing new). There is always damage, especially from a puppy. In addition, landlords can sue you for damage above and beyond you deposit, especially since you signed a lease agreeing not to have a pet.

 

If you DO decide to get one, Rockmom has great advice.

 

Good luck and let us know what you decided.

Give the dog to your wife as a Christmas gift. That way when it messes all over the place you can claim that it's her gift and her responsibility:D

^^^ Ding, ding, ding!!! We have a winner! :laugh::laugh::laugh::thumb::thumb: