Whitey... I love the puppy bonding stage's also, but I have had dog's that I've saved from either along side the road, and from the pound. All older dog's, and have had just as strong a bond as I've had from a puppy. On a side note... none of those dog's were my hunting partners, so don't know if that would have made a difference in the field. If it were me in your shoe's... I'd go spend a day with the dog... when it's time for you to leave... you'll know what's the right thing to do. Good Luck... I really hope this work's out for ya.
