pup vs started dog?

[vandeman17]

As much as I hate to admit it, I think my almost two year old lab isn't going to work out as a duck dog. I had a long conversation with my cousin, who had her for two months of training this summer, and he agreed that he didn't see the desire in her. We did agree that she could turn out to be a good upland dog as she loves being on land and running down birds. There is just something about water retrieves that she doesn't like and that doesn't do me much good when I hunt mostly over water. My cousin said that if I wanted, he could either get me a pup that he picks out or a started dog that they can bring in. I am not sure what to do as they both have their pros and cons. I would really like to get a puppy so that I could enjoy all the puppy stages but at the same time, I would know what I am getting with a started dog.... I don't know what the heck to do. To make matters worse, the old lady has wanted a bulldog for a while and we talked about getting one but since all this, we decided that it is one or the other. 

[steen]

Tough decision.  The puppy is a risk and a started dog you miss the puppy stage.  If you can find a reputable breeder and have the money to pay for training or know how to train the pup it is rewarding.  Even with a started dog a reputable breeder is a must and their training methods must be what you want.  Having a good trainer is important and if he/she includes you in training process it is a bonus.  You will need to know how to take the pup farther.  Even with horses you will always have to do some training, so if you don't know what the trainer did and some info on how to proceed it does you no good getting a trained dog.  Hope that helps, the decision is still yours.

[gasman]

Depends on your wants......Do you want a hunting dog or a hunting buddy 

If you want a great hunting dog, I say go with a starter, but you want a buddy, get a pup. You seen how Buddy is with me. He is my hunting buddy and will do any thing with and for me, but we spend a lot of quality time together and he makes it his mission to make me happy. Thats why I named him Buddy 

And by the way Adam, GET A MALE.............a lot less emotional then a female 

[Stilly bay]

Depends on your wants......Do you want a hunting dog or a hunting buddy 

If you want a great hunting dog, I say go with a starter, but you want a buddy, get a pup. You seen how Buddy is with me. He is my hunting buddy and will do any thing with and for me, but we spend a lot of quality time together and he makes it his mission to make me happy. Thats why I named him Buddy 

And by the way Adam, GET A MALE.............a lot less emotional then a female 

hmmmm...
pup vs starter? either one will bond strongly to you if you do your part.

Im guessing you are joking about the emotions part. if your getting the dog fixed male or female isn't much of an issue other than names.

[vandeman17]

We are again thinking about this and can't decide which way to go. I am lucky enough to be the nephew of the owner of Conway Kennels so I have access to both good pups or good started dogs. It is such a tough decision!

[gasman]

I got some pups here Adam 

[vandeman17]

I got some pups here Adam 

I know Pete but like I said, my uncle and cousin would never train another one of my dogs or probably hunt with me again if I didn't go through them for a dog. I can't bite the hand that feeds me 

[gasman]

I got some pups here Adam 

I know Pete but like I said, my uncle and cousin would never train another one of my dogs or probably hunt with me again if I didn't go through them for a dog. I can't bite the hand that feeds me 

I know, just giving you crap 

[Shannon]

Have Brook sell one of his wash outs. Probably be one of the best dogs you've ever owned and you know exactly what your getting.

[vandeman17]

Have Brook sell one of his wash outs. Probably be one of the best dogs you've ever owned and you know exactly what your getting.

I am considering doing that, just have to see what is available.