Not Engaged Yet

Dog Breed Suggestions?

Hey guys, 

So BF and I may decide to move once our lease is up at the end of Sept. My one requirement for a new place is that it is dog-friendly and has a backyard. I've wanted a puppy for years now, but it wouldn't have been fair when I lived in a small apt in Manhattan. Now that BF and I both work from home, we'd have more than enough time to devote to training and loving a puppy, and just need the right home for one.

That said, I'm trying to decide on a breed. I really want a purebred from a breeder, or I'd rescue a dog from a breed-specific organization. I just can't decide on what breed would be right for us. We want a medium or large dog, that is playful and trainable. I really was set on an irish setter, but I'm not sure we'd like all of the shedding hair. I also love shiba inus (though they're a little smaller than BF would want), but I've heard they're pretty calm dogs, and I think we'd want something more energetic and playful. I love most setters and hounds as well. Any suggestions??
Wedding Countdown Ticker
Daisypath Anniversary tickers
«1

Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?

  • A pit bull = medium, playful, energetic, very trainable, has short-hair.



  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:66771637-51b1-4d73-879c-e4e5009e3571">Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]Hey guys,  So BF and I may decide to move once our lease is up at the end of Sept. My one requirement for a new place is that it is dog-friendly and has a backyard. I've wanted a puppy for years now, but it wouldn't have been fair when I lived in a small apt in Manhattan. Now that BF and I both work from home, we'd have more than enough time to devote to training and loving a puppy, and just need the right home for one. That said, I'm trying to decide on a breed<strong>. I really want a purebred from a breeder, or I'd rescue a dog from a breed-specific organization. </strong>I just can't decide on what breed would be right for us. We want a medium or large dog, that is playful and trainable. I really was set on an irish setter, but I'm not sure we'd like all of the shedding hair. I also love shiba inus (though they're a little smaller than BF would want), but I've heard they're pretty calm dogs, and I think we'd want something more energetic and playful. I love most setters and hounds as well. Any suggestions??
    Posted by Hummingbird125[/QUOTE]

    <div>Do you mind me asking "why?" to the bolded?</div>
  • SKP82SKP82 member
    2500 Comments Second Anniversary Combo Breaker
    We have a Springer Spaniel that we adopted from the English Springer Rescue of America (ESRA).  She is amazing and I would definitely recommend the breed and the rescue!
    IMG_6364
    "Life is not orderly. No matter how we try to make life so, right in the middle of it we die, lose a leg, fall in love, drop a jar of applesauce." - Natalie Goldberg
  • FI & I have an Australian Shepherd and he's great! He is super smart, very active and was right between the large breed I wanted and the small breed FI wanted. Remi is about 45 lbs. and is a bit on the small side for a male Aussie. We live in a condo with no yard and it has worked out, although we do take him on daily walks and go to the local off-leash dog park a couple times a week to wear him out. I think we'll be Aussie parents for life now! They are a wonderful breed, especially for an active couple. We also have a cat...and the two get along great.

    Let me know if you have questions about the breed. Here are some pics for fun:

    Our Remi


    The 4 Aussie colorings:
    Blue Tri, Red Merle, Blue Merle Red Tri
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:8c9ebe0a-5247-4b47-890e-708a6ec5bbac">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]A pit bull = medium, playful, energetic, very trainable, has short-hair.
    Posted by rdr716[/QUOTE]

    One has to watch for breed restrictions at apartments.  It's not fair or right to pits, but it does happen.

    Also, OP, I second Elle's question.  There are plenty of amazing dogs who are mutts - head to any SPCA and check them out.
    I french with my man
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:be26e324-965a-4889-bd3b-d9cc85e06662">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Dog Breed Suggestions? : Do you mind me asking "why?" to the bolded?
    Posted by Elle1036[/QUOTE]

    <div>Two reasons: First, I've been a big fan of AKC dog shows for as long as I can remember, and though I may not ever compete my dog in one it would be nice to have the option. And secondly, my family has rescued/adopted all of the dogs we've ever owned, although a few were great, several had severe behavioral issues. I know that buying from a breeder can't guarantee a good temperment, but those dogs are definitely more likely to have the temperment expected in the breed. </div><div>
    </div><div>I would never advocate buying from a pet shop, but I have no problem with buying from a responsible breeder.</div><div>
    </div><div>
    </div>
    Wedding Countdown Ticker
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:ad18f64e-a020-459c-a7c1-195beba40ae6">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]We have a Springer Spaniel that we adopted from the English Springer Rescue of America (ESRA).  She is amazing and I would definitely recommend the breed and the rescue!
    Posted by SKP82[/QUOTE]

    <div>Thanks for the suggestion! I'll definitely check them out.</div>
    Wedding Countdown Ticker
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:f6c46d8c-445c-433d-ba58-63ce8a175ecf">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : Two reasons: <strong>First, I've been a big fan of AKC dog shows for as long as I can remember, and though I may not ever compete my dog in one it would be nice to have the option.</strong> And secondly, my family has rescued/adopted all of the dogs we've ever owned, although a few were great, several had severe behavioral issues. I know that buying from a breeder can't guarantee a good temperment, but those dogs are definitely more likely to have the temperment expected in the breed.  I would never advocate buying from a pet shop, but I have no problem with buying from a responsible breeder.
    Posted by Hummingbird125[/QUOTE]

    Unless you start training as soon as you get them, it's pretty impossible to later decide to show them.  My parents have two toy poodles and a yorkie, all registered, and none of them are show material.  Not because they don't have the pedigree, but because they don't have the personality.
    I french with my man
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:c5374aa3-5ff5-45dc-aa2b-659ae53e72f6">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]FI & I have an Australian Shepherd and he's great! He is super smart, very active and was right between the large breed I wanted and the small breed FI wanted. Remi is about 45 lbs. and is a bit on the small side for a male Aussie. We live in a condo with no yard and it has worked out, although we do take him on daily walks and go to the local off-leash dog park a couple times a week to wear him out. I think we'll be Aussie parents for life now! They are a wonderful breed, especially for an active couple. We also have a cat...and the two get along great. Let me know if you have questions about the breed. Here are some pics for fun: Our Remi The 4 Aussie colorings: Blue Tri, Red Merle, Blue Merle Red Tri
    Posted by allusive007[/QUOTE]

    <div>Oh he's adorable! They're supposed to be really smart, right?</div>
    Wedding Countdown Ticker
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • You're welcome.



  • FI and I have a German Shepherd/Border Collie mix.  Both breeds are very intelligent and cute.  And our dog is awesome.  I love her to pieces.
  • minskat30minskat30 member
    2500 Comments Fifth Anniversary 500 Love Its Name Dropper
    edited July 2012
    Labs, German Sheps, Border Collies and Australian Sheps sound right up your alley.  They are all high energy (less for for German Sheps) and very trainable.  Golden Retreivers (if you get the right one) can also be high-energy and are obviously very biddable/trainable. 

    Also edited to add a suggestion of an Akita with a caveat.  Akitas are great dogs but can also be restricted by some apartment/condo rules.  They are usually best owned by an experienced owner (they are dominate and can be very protective) and can sometimes be over-bred so you need a really good breeder.
  • Unless you have a huge yard I would caution against going with a border collie. They are fantastic dogs but LOVE to run. Growing up I had a dog that was part border collie and he ran away all the time because he just wanted to run even though our yard was pretty big. A German Shepard or maybe a lab sounds like a good fit for you. I also wouldn't rule out a mutt. If you take your time picking one out you can find one who suits you. If you get a mutt you can also avoid health problems you may encounter with purebred, especially if they are bred for shows.


  • Lab! We got our lab from a couple who no longer wanted him and he really has been such a blessing to us. Hessuper friendly, listens extremely well, loves to play, but will relax and cuddle all evening. Labs are extremely smart and super loyal, we don't even have to have our lab on a leash when he goes outside. He has never once barked (which I know is uncommon for labs) nor has he had an accident in the house. They are also very easy to train!
    Image and video hosting by TinyPic
  • If you must go with a purebred, PLEASE at least go through a breed specific rescue. There are too many animals that get put down every day to justify buying from a breeder (in my pound puppy loving biased opinion :) 

    In terms of breeds, I would second other posters suggestions of Pitbulls or Shepards if you are willing to put in the time to train them. My sister has a German Shepard/Husky mix and she's proven to be easily trainable with a great temperament. 

    My own dog is a Shepard/hound mix. She had LOTS of issues when we rescued her (adopted as a puppy, returned, spent months in a cage, and was about to be put down), but with lots of attention and training she's turned out to be a wonderful dog as well. 
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:961a6b6f-61f8-4303-98a4-b78f17b832b4">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]If you must go with a purebred, PLEASE at least go through a breed specific rescue. There are too many animals that get put down every day to justify buying from a breeder (in my pound puppy loving biased opinion :)  [/QUOTE]

    I hear you on this but sometimes it isn't that easy.  I found several Great Pyrs at rescue orgnaizations and at the pound and they would never let me adopt/rescue.  Why?  I don't have a yard.  Doesn't matter that I have a dog park literally right outside my door and my dog gets to spend all day running around at a doggie daycare...I was ruled out on that fact alone.  It really sucked and made me a little bitter about rescue orgs/pounds.   
  • edited July 2012
    Ugh.  I think that first and foremost, you need to realize that while certain breeds CAN have certain traits, there is no guarantee.  Each dog is going to be a reflection of the owner and its own personality.  It is good to think about what type of dog will fit your lifestyle.  It is also good to acknowledge that living beings don't always fit into your narrow view of what you want them to be. 

    Personally, I would stay away from any type of hound due to their howling. 

    We have two rescue mutts.  One is a labradoodle.  The couple purchased her from a reputable breeder.  And then, they decided that she was untrainable and surrendered her to the rescue.  They also shaved her down to 1/2".  When her fur grew back in, she had a full LAB coat.  She is definitely not a non-shedder. 

    Here is our 'labradoodle' from a reputable breeder:


    You can be the judge as to whether she possesses the common physical traits of a labradoodle.  Also, she is so far from untrainable that it is ridiculous that anyone would have ever said that about her.  She is amazing with our boys. 


    I 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc. that if you do end up deciding on a specific breed that you should go through a breed specific rescue. 

    Another thing to be aware of is that some breeders will not sell to you under certain living situations.  Some rescues are also very particular about where you live.  Both can be very picky when it comes to renting/owning, the size of the yard, height of fence, etc. 
    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker imageimageBaby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:4740486d-8b11-44c8-a601-dcbd6d2208c6">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : I hear you on this but sometimes it isn't that easy.  I found several Great Pyrs at rescue orgnaizations and at the pound and they would never let me adopt/rescue.  Why?  I don't have a yard.  Doesn't matter that I have a dog park literally right outside my door and my dog gets to spend all day running around at a doggie daycare...I was ruled out on that fact alone.  I<strong>t really sucked and made me a little bitter about rescue orgs/pounds.  </strong> 
    Posted by minskat30[/QUOTE]

    You do realize that they are overly cautious because they want to find the best possible forever home for the animal?  It isn't about your feelings.  It is about the animal. 
    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker imageimageBaby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:4740486d-8b11-44c8-a601-dcbd6d2208c6">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : I hear you on this but sometimes it isn't that easy.  I found several Great Pyrs at rescue orgnaizations and at the pound and they would never let me adopt/rescue.  Why?  I don't have a yard.  Doesn't matter that I have a dog park literally right outside my door and my dog gets to spend all day running around at a doggie daycare...I was ruled out on that fact alone.  It really sucked and made me a little bitter about rescue orgs/pounds.   
    Posted by minskat30[/QUOTE]

    <div>It is true that some rescues, especially those that specialize in purbreds, have stricter adoption policies than others. Especially with large or highly energetic dogs, these policies are to make sure the animals are placed in the best situation possible. It sucks when they won't be flexible with a situation like yours, but they do mean well. Since the OP said they were looking for a place with a fenced yard this shouldn't be as much of an issue. </div>
  • minskat30minskat30 member
    2500 Comments Fifth Anniversary 500 Love Its Name Dropper
    edited July 2012
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:995ea2b5-cc42-4e3c-8e08-d695f30dfd06">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : You do realize that they are overly cautious because they want to find the best possible forever home for the animal?  It isn't about your feelings.  It is about the animal. 
    Posted by TheMutleys[/QUOTE]

    Of course I understand that.  I was just pointing out that rescuing isn't all that easy sometimes.  I also think an inflexible attitude doesn't help the dog either.  I just wish that, in finding the best possible forever home for an animal, the pound/rescue orgs I encountered actually looked at the totality of the circumstances.  I was royally ticked because one of the pounds that denied me was a kill-pound (i.e., they would rather have killed the dog than give her to me where she would have lived the current life of luxury of my dog).  I kept an eye on her and contacted one of the rescue orgs that also denied me b/c of the yard situation and made sure someone got the poor girl out. 

    In fairness, I think sometimes rescue groups/pounds are overwhelmed, however, and base their decisions on a check-list more than an in-depth interview...not all of them I'm sure.
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:f8273990-0caa-4feb-881e-79df8ab97c46">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : Well, A Great P is one breed of dog that needs a yard and if you were unable to pay for doggie day care or moved, then the dog would be SOL.  If you were adopting a smaller dog it would possibly be different.
    Posted by hellotarra[/QUOTE]

    No, the dog wouldn't be SOL because I view a dog as a binding committment and I'd never move somewhere where I couldn't meet his needs too. 
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:b75eae7a-b90e-49d8-8c04-c70f8e5ad257">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]Ugh.  I think that first and foremost, you need to realize that while certain breeds CAN have certain traits, there is no guarantee.  Each dog is going to be a reflection of the owner and its own personality.  It is good to think about what type of dog will fit your lifestyle.  It is also good to acknowledge that living beings don't always fit into your narrow view of what you want them to be.  <strong>Personally, I would stay away from any type of hound due to their howling. </strong> We have two rescue mutts.  One is a labradoodle.  The couple purchased her from a reputable breeder.  And then, they decided that she was untrainable and surrendered her to the rescue.  They also shaved her down to 1/2".  When her fur grew back in, she had a full LAB coat.  She is definitely not a non-shedder.  Here is our 'labradoodle' from a reputable breeder: You can be the judge as to whether she possesses the common physical traits of a labradoodle.  Also, she is so far from untrainable that it is ridiculous that anyone would have ever said that about her.  She is amazing with our boys.  I 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc. that if you do end up deciding on a specific breed that you should go through a breed specific rescue.  Another thing to be aware of is that some breeders will not sell to you under certain living situations.  Some rescues are also very particular about where you live.  Both can be very picky when it comes to renting/owning, the size of the yard, height of fence, etc. 
    Posted by TheMutleys[/QUOTE]
    This.  We REALLY lucked out with our beagle/blue tick coonhound mix being incredibly quiet, but a lot of the other hounds were very howly. Definitely take your living environment into account.  This is why I recommend going with a shelter...they tend to be very good at screening dogs/people and determinnig a good fit.  I don't have much to say other than what has already been said, so I will add to the fun by posting a picture of our rescue:

    <a href="http://cdn.cl9.vanillaforums.com/downloaded/ver1.0/content/images/store/3/6/e3755eba-25ba-452f-b695-90700ba0c671.large.jpg" title="Click to view a larger photo" class="PhotoLink"> <img src="http://cdn.cl9.vanillaforums.com/downloaded/ver1.0/content/images/store/3/6/e3755eba-25ba-452f-b695-90700ba0c671.medium.jpg" alt="" /></a>
    Sorry she is sideways :)
    Anniversary
  • Instead of responding to individuals, I'll just try to address a few different things in one post. First of all, I commend all of you who have only every adopted rescue animals, especially older ones, and have never bought a pet from a pet store or even a breeder. Every pet my family has ever owned has been a rescue (dogs from shelters and cats from the street). Aside from that, we've had strays spayed/neutered, and found homes for abandoned kittens. I've chased dogs down that I've found wandering in the street and returned them to thier owners on at least two occasions as well. I totally get what everyone is saying here. I'm not completely counting out rescuing a dog from a SPCA shelter, but as of right now, I think I want to go through a breeder. Personally, I do not have any problem with responsible breeding, but for those who do, I completely understand your decision to not buy from a breeder. I know a few people who have gone through a breeder, and I might end up going with one of their recommendations. It has worked out great for them. I figured you guys could maybe suggest some breeds I hadn't thought of before, and I got some great suggestions - so thanks for those!

    As far as making sure we have the right living situation before getting a dog or puppy - I always planned on it. The place we're in now doesn't allow any pets, so it wouldn't even be an option yet. We'll be all moved in and settled down in our new place before we bring an animal home. Since we may have to start reaching out to breeders a few weeks or months in advance, I wanted to start my research now Smile

    Also, in response to Mutleys saying above that " It is also good to acknowledge that living beings don't always fit into your narrow view of what you want them to be. "

    Whoooooa. Easy girl. Once I adopt/buy/rescue a pet - it is for life. I think of my animals like they are children and I know how to roll with the punches. If I brought home a puppy of a specific breed and she grew up to be 6 inches taller and much furrier than intended, I wouldn't think twice of it! I am well aware that we can't completely control how any other living beings turn out. Thanks for being here to remind anyone on here that didn't understand that, though.

    I will definitely have to do some research on Australian Shepherds - I taught my childhood dog to go agility and had so much fun with her doing it, and I know that breed is commonly seen in the agility ring.


    Wedding Countdown Ticker
    Daisypath Anniversary tickers
  • In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_dog-breed-suggestions?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:17860d45-c654-43c3-8095-ea4d8df57332Post:4d702a15-a207-44c5-a5b6-1af4a4434474">Re: Dog Breed Suggestions?</a>:
    [QUOTE]In Response to Re: Dog Breed Suggestions? : Oh he's adorable! They're supposed to be really smart, right?
    Posted by Hummingbird125[/QUOTE]

    I've heard that Australian Shepherds are 2nd only to Poodles as far as intelligence. Granted I did hear this from a poodle owner at the dog park, so no idea if this is true. My experience has been that they are a very intelligent breed, however. Sometimes too intelligent. FI and I often have to spell words. Remi can actually tell when one of my girlfriends comes to my house by the sound her car makes when she locks her doors in the parking lot 3 floors down. (How he can tell 1 Toyota corolla from another I have no idea!) He was very easy to train. You do have to be consistent...Remi can tell if we really mean sit or not. He will test boundaries like a kiddo. He absolutely knows when he's done something wrong.

    Again, I have no idea how an Aussie ranks in comparison to other breeds, but in my personal experience...they are an intelligent breed.
  • I have a shephard/collie mutt and she is the most amazing dog I have ever met. She has an insanely thick long coat that does shed, but we shave her every other week and it has really cut down on the shedding.

    We can tell you all day long what dog we think you should get, but I think you should go spend some time with the dogs you are looking at and see for yourself if their personality meshes well with you.

    And just for fun, here is my girl.
    image
  • We have three purebred rescues: a Golden Retriever, a Llewellin Setter and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Golden is definitely my favorite, but don't tell my girls that. We had Goldens the entire time I was growing up and they straight up have the most loving, caring personalities and are wonderfully intelligent. I love my sweet boy so much :3.

  • motoLynmotoLyn member
    2500 Comments Fourth Anniversary 100 Love Its Name Dropper
    edited July 2012
    I'll add my opinion, even if you go to reputable breeder beware!  AKC registered pups doesn't mean SQUAT!  Find a breed that fits your life style then go to the national club for references to their recommended breeders.  For example I live with, I wouldn't say own because Maus my wonder pup is as much  a family member to me than a dog is a Weimeraner.  She's a german hunting dog, short coat, insanely smart.  They are suppose to be highly energetic but we lucked out and she's pretty mellow for her breed and so loving.  They are also known as grey ghosts and shadows because they literally follow their owners around.  Maus even follows me into the bathroom when I have to use the toilet.  Hahaha I laugh when I am almost eye to eye with her when I sit on the toilet.

    Weimaraner's are smart and intelligent dogs, and they pick up tricks and behaviors well but experience dog owners are best for Weims since they need a firm guiding hand.  My husband runs with her, we go on hikes and to the dog park and she happily amuses herself in the backyard and then comes in a lays next to me on the couch while I watch TV or work on my lap top.  I went through the Weimaraner Club of America for their local branch and from there was referred to local breeders.  Breed clubs know the breeders better and what kind of puppies are coming out from each mating pair.  I have heard of horror stories that involve AKC registered pups.  So here's Maus!

  • I'm a big believer in mutts. I had a terrier mix as a child who was a wonderful dog with a great personality and lived to be 17 years old. We currently have a husky mix (I think she's also part white German shepherd) who is going to be 17 later this month. She was a year old when we got her. She's not perfect--she had some behavioral issues we thought would go away but did not, but she's been a loyal companion for 16 years.

    Yes, some organizations are picky. My mom was disgusted with our local shelter when we adopted our current dog. They didn't like that the dog would sleep outside in a nice doghouse inside a large dog run in California. Funny thing is that dog hasn't slept outside in probably ten years.
  • zipis1zipis1 member
    Fourth Anniversary 500 Comments 5 Love Its Name Dropper
    I'm obviously going to quite biased since I work for a shelter/vet clinic, but I really encourage you not to get a dog from a breeder. Especially not an AKC one. Ignoring the support of overpopulation breeding contributes to, purebreds are in horrible health, generally speaking, and in my experience AKC ones are the worst because of the ridiculous standards. Even reputable breeders in the end have heavily inbred animals, and because of this purebreds have issues that they shouldn't.

    German shepherds, for instance. Their sloping backs/hind quarters contribute to them to have crippling arthritis and hip dysplasia. AKC says they require the hip dysplasia gene to not be present to be certified, but 1), that's not always followed, 2) in order to be AKC certified they have to have a sloping back, which is the problem. Labs, poodles, shih tzus, boxers, I could go on. They ALL have issues that are inherent to the breed due to inbreeding and "desirable characteristics." Don't even get me started on the sad tale of bulldogs, either. That breed fills me with anger to look at.

    Aside from that, we get purebreds in all the time. Why? Because the owner says, "We thought getting a purebred would give us a better behaved dog, but this one's been a terror!" Their behavior is rarely the breed, and is usually a reflection on the owner/trainer, and unfortunately people with that mindset tend not to put much work into their purebred because they expect it to just behave.

    My two dogs are shelter dogs. I have a German shepherd/border collie mix and a "purebred" puggle (eyeroll at that, by the way) who originally belonged to an AKC breeder of pugs, and bred for her. They were both 5 when I got them. Of the two, my mutt is the better behaved.

    I implore you to please not go to a breeder and support that industry. At least go through a rescue if you really want a purebred. But great shelter dogs aren't unicorns.

    image
  • zipis1zipis1 member
    Fourth Anniversary 500 Comments 5 Love Its Name Dropper
    Another thing I wanted to add. It's extremely important to fall in love with the dog, which is harder to do when getting a dog from a breeder, since your main qualification is that they look a certain way (and in the end, that's really the only guaranteed difference between purebreds and mutts). You may end up getting a dog that is nothing like what you had wanted when you being them home. Going to a shelter or rescue you can meet with the dog more, and the people tend to know them better so you'll get a better match up.

    image
This discussion has been closed.
Choose Another Board
Search Boards