I would encourage you to go the shelter route. We have done that 3 yimes and been blessed....beagle/bluetick hound mix, Springer and lab/terrier mix. Last one is a puppy but he has acclimated himself to these two 70+ seniors. He has a sweet disposition, a great watchdog, but does have a lot of hair "issues". Would not trade or send him back for anything. Bonding is what it is all about....plus realistic expectations. He was the one no one had adopted but he is a sweetheart. Best wishes.