Thanks everyone, especially to Labradork for your prompting, so here is the suggested additional information: I have limited experience with dogs - when I was young my Dad had dogs, and I had a great relationship with them all, however they lived outside (he lived in Africa) and when we went for a walk, there were no leads involved. And I used to look after a friend's (rescue) dog, Tess. Sadly she had to be put to sleep last year. This friend will look after my dog whenever I am away, and they have a cat and children, the youngest of whom is 9. I think I would like a fairly young dog, but not sure whether I should go for a 'new' puppy. or slightly older. I'm looking for a medium energy dog. Ideally I'd like a low shedding dog that doesn't need grooming more than approx once a week. As I live in a flat, I couldn't have, and wouldn't want, an incessant barker, and ideally not too much drool. How long I have to leave my dog will vary initially, as still working part-time, so that would be 2 full days per week - although I would look into getting a dog walker. Our flats only have a small communal garden, but I do live right next to a cycle path (converted railway line), which sees alot of dogs. I'm happy to see that my dog goes out as often as needs be for toileting and at least twice a day for walks. So, any suggestions gratefully received. Cheers, Alison
