[Laurel723]

I didn't want to hijack the other thread, so this is my compromise-not sure its important enough to warrant a thread, but I didn't want be rude to the op on the other thread re: the Rhodies, so here we go.

I consider my self an experienced dog owner/handler-not an expert by any means, but confident enough to end up as the head of the pack-I've had various breeds, mostly heelers, one Rott that was adopted as an adult (former show dog/stud, my cousin got him, couldn't keep him, I ended up with him-my favorite dog ever), and have been around mastiff and dobermans a fair amount, as well as pit bulls, though I've not owned any of them. Had a golden retreiver/lab cross that was about as sharp as a marble and hated her with a passion. I'd have thrown a party the day she died had my brother not been so sad...

:

We live in the country (thank God) and have about 4 acres, plus the neighbors field, horses, and a baby on the way. I have always been drawn to big dogs, (and big horses, but thats another story). I like dogs that are smart enough to "carry on a conversation" (like heeler smart-they're the smartest I've owned, so that's what I compare to...), and sturdy enough to be outside in winter (during the day) in N Idaho. I work full time (like now

) so they are out in the (fenced) yard w/ a house and shade 730-530 m-f and in the house the rest of the time.

Anyone want to elaborate on the pro's and cons of different big dogs? (Feel free to wax eloquent if theres one you love...

)

(I've read tons-breed associations, rescue sites, etc-but the dog you read about and the dog you live with are not always the same) I guess what I'm most interested in is genetic issues (thyroid, hips, heart, etc) in general and linked with certain colors, if there are any (like white dalmations/deaf, etc) and energy level, temperment stability and typical intelligence level-need a dog that's a good watchdog, but not so possessive that my inlaws can't get out of their car. (That would be bad politics...)

OT to the title line, but my hubby loves Schipperkes-I'm not sure I want that much hair-the heeler coat is about my limit. (I'm bad at grooming consistently

it's go like he** for a month and then I slip for 1 1/2.) So I don't think a Komondor (spelling?) is a good choice for me...

Any thoughts/opinions/suggestions/comments/criticisms would be great. I'm pretty sure I have a few years, but I want to be sure I know what I'm doing when I get my new puppy...

 

[thekimballs]

Every breed has health problems--if I listed them all this post would be ten pages long--so if you're secretly drawn to a few breeds I would certainly be able to give you some tips.

I just met, online, a fabulous Rottie breeder who just got a championship on the first Rottie to finish with his tail still on. You can see him here:http://www.therottweilerchronicle.co...dutch.jpg--she breeds for both AKC and FCI standards, and he's a multi-V1 multi-youth sieger and an American and Canadian champion. If I were interested in a rottie I'd go straight to her and get one of Dutch's babies (who are having their tails left ON, thank you very much).

 

[Laurel723]

I'll sit down and think on it w/ my hubby over the weekend....then I'll take you up on your offer, if you don't mind doing that.

I would really, really appreciate it.

If gas weren't $3 a gallon and I knew I wanted a Dane for certain, I'd just come see you(!)-but I'm not sure they'd be the best choice for us....at least at this point in time, you know?

Thank you-

 

[tullyleague]

I've had two St. Bernards, and we're still involved with our local St Bernard rescue.

Pros? Wonderful temperments, great with kids, very devoted. Smart as whips, but they can be lazy.

Cons? Short life span due to their size. Tendency towards bloat. Early training is key as a cute puppy will turn into a large, bounding beast very quickly. The shedding. The drooling! Saints are also sensitive - if you scold or discipline them, they'll sulk until you ask for forgiveness.

All in all, wonderful, wonderful dogs.

 

[newcastlemama]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tullyleague I've had two St. Bernards, and we're still involved with our local St Bernard rescue. Pros? Wonderful temperments, great with kids, very devoted. Smart as whips, but they can be lazy. Cons? Short life span due to their size. Tendency towards bloat. Early training is key as a cute puppy will turn into a large, bounding beast very quickly. The shedding. The drooling! Saints are also sensitive - if you scold or discipline them, they'll sulk until you ask for forgiveness. All in all, wonderful, wonderful dogs.

: We have a ST. Bermard puppy, Toby,(4 months old) he is adorable and is mellow for a puppy but can get pretty excited/rowdy...Any tips?