I need advice on selecting a breed

[Guest Anonymous]

I am looking to adopt a pure-bred dog, but I am not sure of the breed best suited to my situation. I am a college professor at a small school that encourages faculty to bring their dogs to campus and play. While I like big dogs, I live alone in a ground-floor condo, so I don't have a huge place or a big yard, just a screened porch. I am very active and travel around north Georgia almost every weekend, and the dog will get lots of activity then as well as during the week on campus. I have a work/study student who can watch the dog while I am in class a couple of hours a day. I am a big guy (6'3") and I don't really want a "toy" dog. I definitely want to enroll the dog in obedience school and I want the pleasure of getting a puppy and developing the relationship from the beginning. So I need a friendly, relatively active dog that's good with children and strange dogs. I've thought of Rhodesian Ridgebacks, the various white sheepdogs, and even a Bassett hound. Any thoughts?

[daisykatep]

I dont' think you could go wrong with a golden retriever, they are excellent with children and other dogs, easy to train and will alwayswant to please you . I walk and care for dogs every day when thier owners are away and never have any problems with the golden retrievers. I would sugest though you get a bitch rather than a dog to my mind they are easier to train . If you need any puppy advice please email me, I'm quite expert on the bringing up of puppies! My email f.glavin@ntlworld.comP

[Guest Anonymous]

Tim napisał(a):

I am looking to adopt a pure-bred dog, but I am not sure of the breed best suited to my situation. I am a college professor at a small school that encourages faculty to bring their dogs to campus and play. While I like big dogs, I live alone in a ground-floor condo, so I don't have a huge place or a big yard, just a screened porch. I am very active and travel around north Georgia almost every weekend, and the dog will get lots of activity then as well as during the week on campus. I have a work/study student who can watch the dog while I am in class a couple of hours a day. I am a big guy (6'3") and I don't really want a "toy" dog. I definitely want to enroll the dog in obedience school and I want the pleasure of getting a puppy and developing the relationship from the beginning. So I need a friendly, relatively active dog that's good with children and strange dogs. I've thought of Rhodesian Ridgebacks, the various white sheepdogs, and even a Bassett hound. Any thoughts?

Hey Tim: one thing to consider; do you mind dog hair everywhere? You know, do you REALLY want a long shaggy haired dog, or a slick coated dog. They ALL shed, but some more than others.

If you choose a long haired dog: Are you prepared to be a chia pet when you wear black pants? :lol:

I would say research the various breeds, their characteristics, the diseases they are prone too, pros and cons, etc... and make your decision from there. I would not be swayed from other people's opinions because what one breed works for one person, may not work for another.

[Guest Anonymous]

Jack Russels are small, but VERY active! they may chew on furniture, and get into more trouble (Im not sure) but they act like they are big dogs!

[Guest Anonymous]

:D Hi!! I have a Min Pin. He is a Toy but a BIG Toy. As far as I'm concered he is just great. I've only had him for a year and he's now just turned 3 years old. He is a people dog. Always wants to be with someone. He is active but not too much. He would rather be with you than outside running.
I would look into the breed a lot before I decided if I were you. Min Pin's are also Low Maintenance. I take Rex everywhere, in my car, shopping, Soccer, Soccer Tournaments, Restuarants, you name it, he goes. He has a seat belt for the car and a carry bag for stores.

My sister has a Jack Russel, very, very active and sheds a lot.

You'll have fun no matter what. :roll: :roll:

[Guest Anonymous]

Tim napisał(a):

I am looking to adopt a pure-bred dog, but I am not sure of the breed best suited to my situation. I am a college professor at a small school that encourages faculty to bring their dogs to campus and play. While I like big dogs, I live alone in a ground-floor condo, so I don't have a huge place or a big yard, just a screened porch. I am very active and travel around north Georgia almost every weekend, and the dog will get lots of activity then as well as during the week on campus. I have a work/study student who can watch the dog while I am in class a couple of hours a day. I am a big guy (6'3") and I don't really want a "toy" dog. I definitely want to enroll the dog in obedience school and I want the pleasure of getting a puppy and developing the relationship from the beginning. So I need a friendly, relatively active dog that's good with children and strange dogs. I've thought of Rhodesian Ridgebacks, the various white sheepdogs, and even a Bassett hound. Any thoughts?

Do you like really big dogs? you might find a great dane would suit you and they can fit in small surroundings if their exercise needs are met. I would suggest a Fawn or Brindle as they are mellower than the Harlequin types tend to be. A good dog from a breeder who is producing sound dogs with sane minds and is looking for longevity as well as beauty might work out great for you.
Another thought might be a retired greyhound but you said you wanted a pup.
I think you would find the Rhodesian a bit much in the circumstances you describe and maybe also the sheep protection dogs you were thinking of while a Dane is imposing, big enough for a big guy to play with and if of proper temperament fine with kids, friends, and other dogs.

[Guest Anonymous]

Hi Tim...I have five dogs, 2 -Terriers, 1- English Setter, and 2 - Italian Spinone.....The Italian Spinone is a fairly big dog, they love everyone and everything, their temperment is second to none....I'm not sure tho' if they would do obedience, with any other dog you can tell it what you want it to do, with a Spin they need to have a reason for doing it....trust me, if you get one your life will never be the same again, it will improve ten fold...the only drawback you may find is they do slobber, usually when you are eating or anyone else is for that matter, or when they have just had a drink....but be carefull, if you do decide to get a Spin, you will find as many others before you have, that one Spin is never enough....there is a saying about Spinone
"If you look into the eyes of a dog, and a human looks back, you are looking into the eyes of a Spinone".....that saying is so true, they look deep into your eyes, into your very soul so they know just who and what you are.....take a look at one see what you think, they are brilliant dogs, I'll never have any other breed from now on...
Jackie.

Tim napisał(a):

I am looking to adopt a pure-bred dog, but I am not sure of the breed best suited to my situation. I am a college professor at a small school that encourages faculty to bring their dogs to campus and play. While I like big dogs, I live alone in a ground-floor condo, so I don't have a huge place or a big yard, just a screened porch. I am very active and travel around north Georgia almost every weekend, and the dog will get lots of activity then as well as during the week on campus. I have a work/study student who can watch the dog while I am in class a couple of hours a day. I am a big guy (6'3") and I don't really want a "toy" dog. I definitely want to enroll the dog in obedience school and I want the pleasure of getting a puppy and developing the relationship from the beginning. So I need a friendly, relatively active dog that's good with children and strange dogs. I've thought of Rhodesian Ridgebacks, the various white sheepdogs, and even a Bassett hound. Any thoughts?

[daisykatep]

The only thing about large breeds of dogs is that they shouldn't have too much excersise, I'm talking about such breeds as great danes, greyhounds (they only need short bursts) irish wolfhounds etc. Ask any breeder or vet about this I'm sure they will tell you the same. The body and bone structure of the breeds cant take a lot of intensive excersise, this is one of the reasons I suggested a golden retriever, they are a very friendly all round dog and as I said before very good with children and other animals. I don't want you to think I'm swaying you towards this breed, I'm just telling you my experiences of them. Good luck in your search. Pat :oops:

[Guest Anonymous]

daisykatep napisał(a):

The only thing about large breeds of dogs is that they shouldn't have too much excersise, I'm talking about such breeds as great danes, greyhounds (they only need short bursts) irish wolfhounds etc. Ask any breeder or vet about this I'm sure they will tell you the same. The body and bone structure of the breeds cant take a lot of intensive excersise, this is one of the reasons I suggested a golden retriever, they are a very friendly all round dog and as I said before very good with children and other animals. I don't want you to think I'm swaying you towards this breed, I'm just telling you my experiences of them. Good luck in your search. Pat :oops:

Boy advice like that would leave a lot of people who lure course and or hunt with their sight hounds laughing at you.
When I had Danes it was a minimum of mile walks plus off lead play time every day and on weekends 5 miles or more at least one of the days.
Of course it helps if you have sound dogs but Danes particularly young ones need plenty of play and exercise to develop correctly.
My Irish Wolfhound can run and run and run and is more than happy to do so when she goes on her outings. Her body and bone structure is designed to do this just like the Danes are designed as boar hunting dogs able to go all day and bring down very tough dangerous game. Sure they can be quiet at home but they have the bodies if properly bred to be very athletic.
I've seen a good dane clear a 6' fence no problem and even a less athletic one can do 3' unless of course it is trained not to jump it.

[Guest Anonymous]

Every owner of a Mutt and/or purebred dog will think their breed or mix is the best, and only rightly so. However, not every breed is right for every person. I suggest you go to some dog shows and look around to see what really appeals to you, and most breeders will be bluntly honest, after you've explained your lifestyle, about whether they think their particular breed would be a good match for you. Also, try going to rescues and shelters (they do sometimes have pups) and perhaps there's a great mix-breed pup waiting for just you. No matter what your choice, do crate train the pup for your sanity and their safety and do at least a basic obedience course. If you choose a purebred pup, make sure they do not just come from a breeder (anyone can be called a breeder), make sure they come from a reputable breeder. When you decide on a breed, do research the breed explicitly for temperment, conformation, genetic problems, and be aware of what disease each breed is prone to. You can never have a guarantee of a healthy dog, but buying from a reputable breeder will at least ensure that specific testing (not just a vet check) for certain problems was done to the sire and dam before breeding. Also, if you choose to rescue a dog, while you can't be sure of its background, the rescue organizations and most shelters have foster parents who are aware and check for a lot of things - temperment, good w/children, other dogs/cats. All dogs need daily exercise which can be geared toward your activities. Good luck.

[Guest Anonymous]

well u could get a medium sized dog like a cocker spaniel they dont grow huge like a great dane but they are good with children and strangers
or u could get a golden retriever they are VERY FRIENDLY and a lot of families with children i know have golden retrievers
border collies are also great dogs and they like to herd people so if some children are straying off somewhere theyre not supposed to border collies herd them back
you could also go on some sites which ask you questions about how big your yard is and if u want a big or small dog etc..and they give u suggestinos about what kind of dog would be okay for u :wink:

[Aroura]

I'd go for a Lab, a Boxer or even a Standard Schnauser for something a little different. (Personally I would go for a Boxer above anything else, but thats because I'm bias) :roll:
How about an Airdale Terrier? They can be quite energetic but are easily adaptable. Or a Great Dane? They make great indoor dogs, and don't NEED too much exercise (any dog can thrive from super long walks and plenty of romping...), they shouldn't be walked too much when they are young though, and their size may intimidate other peoples dogs. Cocker Spaniels are also great dogs, although avoid the solid colours as they have a greater tencancy to become agressive. A Visla? They are great dogs, rather expensive though. Or a Springer Spaniel? They are not only friendly, but smart and loyal, excellent all round dogs. A Standard Foxie? They love to play and will keep you entertained all day while you are near and be contented by themself while you are away.
What ever you chose, a dogs socialization period is most important before the age of 4 months, if you socialize it before then and keep it socialized, almost any dog could suit your situation.
Good luck dog hunting!!!

[Guest Anonymous]

Boxer....most definetley a boxer. They are big and loveable. They love children, and get along well with anyone or anything. They are large, but they don't shed to much. They do well indoors as long as they get plenty of exercise and I can almost guarentee you will get tired before they do. The only thing is they can de very dependant on you. They don't like to be left alone. We left our boxer...wishbone...who my parents gave away..alone while we went out all day. he ate everything in the house- curtains, lamp (and it was plugged in)couch, carpet, toilet papper, toys. you name it and it was ripped to shreds. He got to big for me to handle and dad gave him to some frineds that had several kids. mom and dad would not help me with him. He was my dog and my responsibility. So after the eating thing...oh yeah and he sat on my moms min pin, they decided he had to go. I was so sad I loved that dog.

McKenzie is a boxer pitbull mix. So I am not suggesting my breed, just part of it. :lol:

[Guest Anonymous]

Hi Tim

All these suggestions are great in helping you find the right breed your looking for.
I for all the activities you would be doing i would have to suggest a Doberman. I know they have a reputation about them just like the Pits, Rotts, ect...but they will not shed like the Germany Sheperd( a good dog also) and are VERY easy to train. But with all the people helping you out with the breed your looking im sure whatever dog or Dobie :wink: you get would make a wonderful companion.

Let us know which one you choose. 8) 8) 8)

[Guest Anonymous]

I WOULD DEFINITLEY RECOMMEND A LAB!!!! They're great! It sound like he would get enough exercise! :D

[sixjollydogs]

:D The best,IMHO, is the dog you save from your local shelter. If you want a purebred...try a standard poodle.

[Guest Anonymous]

I want to thank the posted replies: everyone sounds so sincere! I have read several books and visited a couple of small shows already (so I know all the info on bad breeders and pet stores!). Also, the two shelters I have looked in on aren't what I am hoping for; understandably, they can't say much for certain about backgrounds and parentage. Given that I may be making my school liable if a dog were to injure someone, I have to be extremely careful about having a highly sociable breed. I was warned by another member of the faculty to think hard about any breed that students might even associate with danger (alas, ruling out Rotts, Pitts, and even Dobermans--a breed a personally like!). I really am considering a Golden (a shedding issue), but the two lead breeds are the Vizsla and the very rare Chinook. I've spoken to breeder of both and I won't have difficulty getting a Vizsla (money isn't an issue for me); the Chinook will be tough to find. Thanks again for all the input: I found it very helpful!

[sixjollydogs]

:D When selecting a dog, insure you go to a breeder with a dog show proven record and talk to your local vets as to their experience with dogs of that breed and from that breeder.

One word of caution on Goldies....if bred right they are fabulous dogs...but I have read that some bad ones are cropping up due to bad breeding. (and of course that is true for any breed)

[Guest Anonymous]

Dalmations are great dogs and great with kids. They are usualy fine around new people, and dont shed TOO much. My dalmation is the best dog i have had or known. we have a 2 and 1 half pound puppy and a cat, and she is a little afraid of them (of course a cat chased her around the yard once :lol: ) but she would never try to hurt them. Did i mention Dalmations are great dogs?

[Guest Anonymous]

I would say,A GOLDEN RETRIEVER!!!!! They are great dogs, VERY FRIENDLY, train easily, aren't destructive, and stick to you like a leech!
Yes, they may shed, but you won't mind after the two of you get to know each other! :lol: I say they are the perfect pet! And they are great for inexpierianced owners! :wink: They won't mind the little space as long as you give them ample excersise. I think the only problem with Goldens is that they love thier owner too much! :wink: :D Make you sure you get one from a good breeder, pet stores or "puppy farms" sell sick, hyperactive or even snappy pupppies! If you want information on the GOLDEN RETRIEVER, go to www.landofpuregold.com they have lots of information there, including stories, tips, pictures, and games. I also recomend Labs, they're like the Golden in many ways exept have short hair, wich makes grooming easier and less frequent although Labs do tend to get overwieght, and LOVE water and swimming wich might make you need to go to the beach frequently! But it would be worth it, they are lovely loyal pets! So, to wrap it all up I woul recommend one of both! :D
Good luck searching! :D :D

[Aroura]

Great choices Tim!!! Vizlas are great dogs, good for almost any situation and very trainable. Don't know much about chinooks, but they are beautiful!!!
Happy hound hunting! :D