re: Getting a dog for my 7 year old boy? Suggestions?

Golden... best dogs on earth. Only knock is they shed

lot if people bringing up great dogs but do not underestimate grooming as op said.
i have two cavachons and they are like little teddy bears and like to be next to you...

did not recommend them because of the every 5 week groomer visit.. but if not a problem they are smallish..cute...always look like a puppy/ stuffed bear ( mine are ten and people thing they are puppies)...like to snuggle......but they have that spaniel so still chase stuff and like to sit and watch the trees for wildlife..

i had a choc lab and still say they are the ultimate dog for companion and playing in yard or water..

Aussies are pretty amazing at how they study their herd (humans) and become so sensitive to their routine and needs. They are high energy dogs and they do shed. You have to channel that energy into activities that you like, but they learn very quickly and want to please.

We had an Aussie and she was just a wonderful addition to our family. They develop an impressive vocabulary.

A friend of mine got one. She was his constant companion. Went with him everywhere. Then they found out his wife had terminal leukemia. At a point fairly early in her diagnosis, the dog flipped overnight from him to his wife and became her constant companion. She will still go with him for walks, but wants to get back to the house, to "take care" of the one who really needs it.

Get a boxer, they are amazing with kids.

Yep. I had a border collie / springer spaniel mix that I rescued from a shelter and she was perfection. Smart, loving, calm, patient and a beautiful dog. Now I have a shih tzu and he's a little bastard. He thinks he's a pit bull. But, I love him, so I tolerate him. Wouldn't recommend him for kids though.

German shorthaired or wirehaired pointer.

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After researching breeders around the area and based on current availability, I believe we'll be going with a black lab puppy soon followed by a golden retriever puppy in the not-so-distant future! They should keep our boys busy throughout their childhood!

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Good decision. Black labs are prone to being a little bit more high strung but it all depends on the lineage. Hope you get a purebred from a show breed line. If it’s hunting breed or American bred be prepared for a working dog.

Been in the industry a while and my wife’s a veterinarian. Research your breeder thoroughly. Once you get the dog, ignore every crazy dog food, immunization, and health recommendation the breeder offers. Seek a vet you trust.

Then find a book by Richard Wolters. I suggest Water Dog or Family Dog if you aren’t sending them off to get trained.

Our vizsla is our prettiest dog, and the breed makes a great companion and doesn’t shed. They are referred to as “Velcro dogs” because they are so affectionate and always want to be in your lap. However, they are very high energy puppies.