Birthday Puppy

I appreciate wanting a specific puppy, but have you considered a rescue? You can probably find the breed you're looking for while saving a dog's life.

"Don't breed or buy, while shelter animals die."

Also, puppies have lots of little 'bad' behaviors that they will grow out of ... young adult rescue dogs have outgrown these, are still very trainable, and usually very grateful.

Most rescue organizations charge a $50-$100 adoption fee.

http://austinrescue.com/
http://www.austindog.org/
http://luckymutts.com/luckymutts.html
http://www.trainedrescuedogs.com/

I would not rush to get a pet. Its a pet for life and you want to pick one that has a disposition to match your family, etc. Instead, perhaps you can give him a leash, dog bowls, dog bed, etc., and doggy picture frame with a certificate or letter in it that says he can turn it in for his puppy. Then, explain the criteria of the dog that you want (size, temperament, shedding, energy level, etc.) and involve him in the evaluation process and picking of the pet. At 8 years old, he is old enough to participate in the process. This way, you have more time to find the perfect pet (regardless of whether it is a rescue dog or pure bred).

Animal shelter or rescue group. Please! The shelter will allow you to get to know several dogs and breeds.

hmmmm....I can't help but mention that pets are a HUGE responsibility. Almost like a child. What I mean by that, is if you are extremely particular and have a tight budget also, then it may be best to start off small....like perhaps a turtle or goldfish.
Dogs and cats are NOT cheap and you have to be able to afford them. They can be relatively affordable but what if something happens like they end up having a malignant cyst or what if they get seriously hurt? That is going to cost hundreds of dollars to get him/her well. Are you willing to shell out that kind of money?
Also, will s/he be an inside and/or outside pet? You have to keep up with shots, flea/tick/mosquito medicine on a year-round basis.
What about food? Quality dog food isn't cheap. The good news is you can be on a budget and afford quality dog food. It's just a matter of remembering that your pet is part of your family. Not something to get rid of when they become a nuisance or become too expensive all of a sudden. They have feelings and need to know they are in your family forever, unless of course they seriously turn on a family member.
These are just a few things to consider before buying a pet for someone for their birthday. It's a big responsibility and your son needs to realize that so they don't eventually pawn the duties of caring for him/her on you.
If you guys have already gone over all this then kudos to you and I personally love golden retrievers. They are loyal, kind, and sweet dogs. Some day, when we can afford it (we already have a husky), I'd love to get a golden retriever.
HTH,
Jen

two words - animal shelter! If you are not showing, you do not need a registered dog. Even if the adoption fee is $100 it comes with spay/neuter and all the shots. Puppy love does not need papers to be complete. And a non pure-bred quite likely will be a healthier animal over all. Please be aware an 8 year old is NOT going to completely take care of any animal. Are you prepared to be primary care giver to a pet? Are you prepared to clean up pee on the floor, poop if it happens? If not, don't get a puppy. Adopting a dog is not much less than adopting a child. Cheers!

It is NOT a good idea to get a puppy from an online source without first doing a lot, a lot, a LOT of research on the prospective breeder. There are many puppy mills and not only are they something you do not want to support, but you're also not going to get a lifelong healthy pup/dog.

There is a rescue society for all of those dog breeds. You could try that route possibly? We have had really really wonderful experiences. Our dog wasn't a puppy so we missed out on the cute puppy stage, but that also meant no accidents on the floor to train out of, no chewing, etc, etc, etc. Something to consider! Good luck!

I worry that a semi-adult dog may have some aggressive behaviors not readily apparent upon adoption day. Puppies chew and drool, not much different than kids. I would not rush though...Have you gone to the shelter? You can give them criteria and they will keep a look out for you. I have a Boxer and she is the best kid dog. Short hair, very trainable, and great with children of all ages from the time she was a pup. CB