New puppy - should we or shouldn't we?

[xanderma]

I would love to have a dog, but it seems such a big undertaking, I don't know where to start. Other people I know just seem to jump in with both feet, but I'm a bit more cautious than that!

We always had dogs at home when I was a child, but I can't really say I was that aware of their needs and care etc.

We have 2 cats, a rabbit and 2 guinea pigs at the moment, so we are more than capable of caring for pets. I feel, though, that a dog would be such a wonderful addition to the family, as I can clearly remember the joy and pleasure they brought to my childhood.

I'd like to hear any advice on breeds which would be good with children (oh, yes, forgot to mention we have 3 of those, age 11, 9 and 6!), good with cats and don't need tons of exercise. I love the look of Westies - would they fit the bill?

TIA

[whippetycros]

xabderma

Given that dogs domesticated man, no mean feat that, using a pc is easy in comparison.

Not sure about cats as they are sneaky creatures.

[lankeela]

As they say, on the internet, no-one knows you are a dog!