As AAS has reported, there have been many people who experienced health problems when purchasing a dog from these people..as well, I'm sure there can be behavioral problems in these dogs. A reputable breeder will only breed dogs that have sound health and sound mind. And Puppy Pals is a retailer of poorly bred puppymill dogs that are not bred for sound mind and health.

There is a code of ethics that a breeder has to follow that you should be able to view, and you should always, always be able to meet the parents as well. A reputable breeder would do a home check on you. It should absolutely not be a quick purchase which I believe Puppy Pals is.

As a mother too, I implore you to be careful about where you get your pup...you want a great pup for you and your son (I too have a son!), and not a pup that is going to end up in heartbreak.

I would suggest going down to a shelter and TAKE YOUR TIME..you have a child involved. Look at some of the adults and enquire about the dogs that have grown up with children, or have had children in previous homes. Make sure the dog you get LOVES and adores your son..not just tolerates, but absolutely LOVES your son, loves being petted by your son, thinks kids are so much fun..and of course, do this on a walk away from the stressful kennel environment. Getting an adult means that you know the size of the dog, and the temperament. Temperament is extremely hard to tell with a puppy.

My best of luck to you and again, please take your time...this is a 15 year commitment and you want a positive, happy outcome..no dogs with health issues...especially given you have a son who will be out of his mind excited about a dog I'm sure. (There is a dog named Dotti at the Delta SPCA who is a lab/border collie cross...I believe she is more like a spaniel cross who sounds like a wonderful family dog!)