How do I convince my mom to get me a new Border Collie puppy?

Question

I have been doing agility for about 5 years now, and I have a dog I take care of, feed, water, walk, etc. So it is not like she thinks I'm not responsible, she just doesn't see why I want another dog because she has never been a dog person. My dad is fine with it, in fact he wants it too, but he says we can't get a dog unless my mom agrees with it. I want a Border Collie to do agility with because right now I have an Airedale, he is the best dog ever, but not the best for agility. I know Border Collies need a job and such, and I will be able to work with it for at least 2 hours each day! What should I do to get her to change her mind? There is a litter of puppies being born soon and I really want one of them, and if I don't hurry the waiting list for them will be filled up!

Answer 1

OMG - I SO feel for you....

The answer is complicated...I fully understand your desire for a Border COllie (I have 2 - and I compete in Agility....AGILITY ROCKS!!! Yes, I am addicted too!!!)....

So, I don't know your age so it's a little hard to answer...first off, it seems like you have dad on your side...perhaps he can help to convince mom???

Maybe mom is afraid that

1) You will neglect the Airedale once you getr the new dog

2) That it's even more dog hair she needs to vacuum up....do you helpo with the house cleaning...if not...start...

As you can tell from the "Borders Rock" name, you know where my heart lies...

However...I also run a lab and take my BEAGLE to fun matches....The beagle (strangely enough) has more talent than 1 Border (he's a mix) and the lab but she is too old to compete now (she is 11 but arthritic)...

The Airedale may not place 1st in his group but placements are NOTHING....what you want is the QUALIFYING score....I am SURE he/she can get it.....

WHere do you complete...American Agility Asspoc....North American Agility....Agility Assoc of Canada???? Let me know by e-mail...I am TRULY interested....You don't meet a lot of "agility freaks" on this site...

GOod luck....work on dad to work on mom but NEVER NEVER NEVER neglect the dog you already have.

Answer 2

Develop a Powerpoint presentation which lists your reasons for wanting the dog.  Support your reasons with evidence and support for your case.  Hopefully she will be so impressed with your research and responsibility that she can't say no!

Answer 3

save up money and beg your mom everyday :p

Answer 4

save up money and buy it yourself.

thats what i had to do.

and im doing it for my next dog, ( cairn terrier or mini schnauzer)

Answer 5

I can understand why you want a BC, we compete in agility as well and BC's are great agility dogs.  But bringing a new dog into the family has to be a family decision.  This dog will be in your family for the next 15 years or so, what are your plans, 2, 5, 10 years from now?  Will you be going of to school?  What if you start a career and have to live in an apartment in a city and either can't have a dog or wouldn't have the time for one.

And then there is the financial side of it.  Vets are expensive for routine visits, what if the dog gets sick and there are $1,000's of $$$$$ in vet bills.

Maybe the best thing to do now is work with your Airedale, and when you are on your own and the time is right get that BC.  You can compete in agility for a lifetime and it seems you have lots of that ahead of you!