Monah

Hi Noisy, I'm guessing a typo? but weis arent' sighthounds ;) xxx I think there is a thread somewhere on here about a person who desperately wanted a wei and took on a slightly older dog with quite upsetting results as it was far too much for them to handle. I can't do the linky thing, but someone may be able to give it a go? we have 3 ridgies as neighbours and my girlfriend breeds them, lovely lovely dogs, and they are huge and very protective. I dont have any issues with big dogs and children as we had giant schnauzers and wolfhounds with ours, as long as the children know how to treat animals etc. The op has a lot to think about and will decide what breed he wants. I'm pretty impressed he is still around! as Dol can be pretty brutal at times as we are all so passionate about dogs not ending up being 'homeless' etc. It is not personal, just a dog thing ;) With shedding I think we all know that shorthaired breeds are also capable of major shedding and I've seen many owners covered!! in hair from their pointers (of all nationalities) dalmations etc. In fact sometimes these hairs are worse as they seem to stick to everything like little splinters, hard to remove Maybe if you can narrow your choices down to 2 or 3 breeds Lambo, and then really take a good look with the family, not just at shows (where the dogs are usually pretty good) but at homes where you may see behaviours that 'freak' you out, or not, whatever the case may be. I know lots of people admire the viz , of course! THE prettiest breed there is ;) but when they see them in a home environment, they can be put off. What I love madly about them, others may not. ;) Weis are lovely dogs. Probably not able to be walked by non adults (and really no dogs should be out with kids re attacks etc.) but oof course the larger and stronger the dog, the less a child could control it if it did decide to chase etc. I'm sure you have already thought of this anyway. I still think either a grey or (not even on the list!!) a cattle dog :D as they are more independent, love to go jogging etc., love kids and are protective AND are a great size, compact etc. shed a little but a good brush once a week to remove loose hair would do the trick, and, they have nice big ears!!!

Yes of course you can, I didn't realise your OH would be at home a lot too. And also, whenever the pup drives you crazy you can come on here and vent. I'm sure nearly all of us have had times when we've thought What was I thinking???????? (re puppies!) :D and, If we can just get through this period, we'll be fine!! xxxx

Yes, well I've contacted them, just in case, and also asked WHY? (if legal).

Contact authorities immediately, email if you cannot get someone on the phone!! Quarrantine or even your local animal control officer/council. this is an offence, a dangerous one, not just about having animals in cages etc. Please report this ASAP before any are sold. :D

Italian Spinone, I won't tell the queen vizsla you said that either Roisin was only a baby then. Hijack, sorry, but Spinoni are so cuuuuute :D

Lucky you! Is he already acclimatised to the boat? We have taken all sorts of breeds on all sorts of boats for all sorts of time frames. You can get some great life jackets that have a loop on the back like a collar, to fix a lead to, and if you put a swivel attachment on the lead or rope it is non tangle. Another good idea (although we have not needed it ourselves) is to have a fold up travel crate for times when you just cannot supervise the dog properly, to keep him very safe. We used newspaper for a 'loo' or any nearby island, but these days those petpad things are more absorbant and neater etc. A neon high visibility collar for constant wear is also good as they light up under a torch etc. and are easier to see, just in case. Over the years our dogs have been on game boats, trawlers, ski boats, fishing boats etc and have loved it, although banging over the waves they have been in my lap! Be careful if he is prey driven as if he sees a fish/bird etc. he may make a jump for it. I guess he is microchipped in case he does go missing somewhere else. An agility see saw may help him with getting used to 'the earth moving under his feet'. You have a while to teach him 'boat skills' I'm sure he'll be fine.xxx

Sorry, just one little thing. If you are still thinking of a low shedder, I'm afraid borders (mine anyway!!) and labs shed like ;) tumble weeds all around the house, and don't even THINK about hairless clothing! or cars!!!

Lambo , shows do not cost anything unless they are 'attached' to say a royal show etc. and you have to pay an entrance fee. Most breeds are OK with a normal size suburban block as long as they get exercise, we have a couple of acres and mine only 'use' it if I am out there too and would be fine in a smaller area. I agree with Kavik about the fence. Price, this can vary greatly depending on lines, litter choice etc. but there should be some sort of 'ball price' although with those breeds I have no idea. All I would say is don't get sucked in by things like 'rare blue staffy' etc. being double the price and any other type statements with the other breeds. There are breeders on DOL who wold probably help you with price ranges if you PMd them privately and you may be able to find some on the actual breed listings on DOL. With the negative comments re breeds, some (like me ) actually don't find the negative comments a negative. I love the negative(apart from any health, timid issues) about both my breeds, which I suppose is how it works. If you find the neg comments quite easy to live with ;) (slobber etc with a spin?? easy :D 'velcro' viz? easy ) then you know 'this could be the ONE!'

Vizsla Temperament What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em By Michele Welton. Copyright © 2000-2010 The AKC Standard calls the Vizsla "lively, gentle-mannered, demonstrably affectionate, and sensitive." The good-natured Vizsla has also been called a "Velcro" dog because he is so tactile -- he likes to attach himself to people, preferably in their laps. Athletic, agile, and light on his feet, the Vizsla is a robust hunting dog who needs vigorous daily exercise and lots of personal attention. Too much confinement and too little companionship can lead to neurotic behaviors such as hyperactivity and destructiveness. Bored Vizslas are notorious chewers. Most Vizslas get along well with everyone, including strangers and other animals, but they do need a lot of early socialization to build confidence. Some Vizslas are excitable and/or easily startled in new situations. The Vizsla has the independent spirit of all pointing breeds, but responds to training more willingly than most and is a capable performer in advanced obedience competition. You may need to control his tendency to mouth your hands -- provide a box filled with toys so he can carry things around in his mouth. If you want a dog who... Is medium-sized, sleek-coated, tautly-muscled, a true athlete Is usually bred by responsible breeders who produce dual-purpose (both show and field) and even triple-purpose (show, field, and obedience) dogs Is packed with energy and thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities Responds to training more willingly than most pointing breeds Is gentle and sensitive, typically a "soft" dog Is very sociable and demonstrative with his family -- likes to lean against you Is usually polite with everyone, including other animals A Vizsla may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with... Vigorous exercise requirements Exuberant jumping, especially when young or not exercised enough "Separation anxiety" (destructiveness and barking) when left alone too much Timidity in some lines, or when not socialized enough A distractable mind of his own -- tends to ignore calls and commands when an interesting sight or scent catches his attention A Vizsla may not be right for you. If I were considering buying or adopting a Vizsla My major concerns would be: Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Vizslas MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. Bored Vizslas are famous for chewing through drywall, ripping the stuffing out of sofas, and turning your yard into a moonscape of giant craters. If you simply want a casual pet and don't have the time or inclination to take your dog running or hiking or biking, or to get involved in hunting, or advanced obedience, or tracking, or agility (obstacle course), or a similar canine activity, I do not recommend this breed. Trying to suppress their "hardwired" desire to run and work, without providing alternate outlets for their high energy level, can be difficult. Bounciness. Young Vizslas (up to about two years old) romp and jump with great vigor, and things can go flying, including people. Separation anxiety. More than most other breeds, Vizslas need a great deal of companionship and do not like being left alone for more than a few hours. They tend to express their unhappiness through destructive chewing and barking. If you work all day, this is not the breed for you. Providing enough socialization. Vizslas need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become shyness, which is difficult to live with. Mind of their own. Vizslas are versatile working dogs, capable of learning a great deal, but they have an independent mind of their own, can be stubborn, and are easily distracted by exciting sights, scents, and sounds. You must show them, through absolute consistency and great patience, that you mean what you say and that they must pay attention to you. Have to agree with all this about vizss too ;) Also the spins were right, except my girl was toilet trained at 8 weeks and has the bladder from heaven!! Even in the 'bad' spin stuff, they say how dependable and even temperament they are Borders are great dogs, my kids grew up with Lakelands (and others!) and they were wonderful :D

People have different expectations though Not one of my friends ever want a vizsla they love the look, but can see that a viz is more demanding? than most breeds, and this is not what they want, and her loving personality puts them right off. the spin is more laid back, so she is more popular, but has a beard so this puts them off of her as a pet. It's just a matter of finding the right match for each person. I enjoy demanding animals, even the cats I have are that way. Others prefer a more independent animal. All are lovely, all can also have their times :D xxx

PF. HOWARD He is adorable!!! Love him. :D How do the poodles cope!

another whippet/grey fan here. Lovely. sighthounds are usually not as needy as some other breeds (usually :D ) and clean and lovely My friend has a gorgeous foster atm, she, the dog! is about 12 months old, could have ACD staffy etc. and is really lovely both in looks (almost a 'tiger' coat ) and temperament. I'd have her in an instant if I could. I know it's not a pup, but there are many fantastic 'tested' fosters out there waiting for a great home, who are over the destructive, nippy, chewey, toileting digging stuff. These are the problems that your wife, as a dog liker, but maybe not lover, will find really irritating in a pup. Yes it is training, but training can be exhausting and a daily ongoing consistent thing. Most owners are fine with it, but if you are not sure about having a dog in the first place, it would be really draining. Also, your eldest child may want to help care for the dog etc., but in reality it will fall to you (probably). With school, homework, sports etc. not many kids have the time to spend on training and caring for a pup but yours may be the exception. A socialised ACD is a great family, jogging, protective dog who would be fine on their own. They are a fantastic companion which is probably why you see many with tradies etc. going off to work They are very happy to just sit and wait and look around. Also very loyal, not a dog who will be best friends with anyone and everyone. It is great you are asking so many questions. very difficult to really make a suggestion as all dogs even in one breed are different. sometimes you can meet a dog you never thought of owning and fall in love with it and it will change your mind about what breeds you like. Puppies of most breeds are really hard work sometimes even worse by the time they are about 9 to 15 months!!! Many are given away before 2 years of age because of this which is a shame as normally by about 2 yrs of age they start to settle down and be 'sensible' As long as you have realistic expectations, I think any dog will have a lovely hoome at your place

I also have to say none of the dogs on the list, especially a vizsla (agree with FHRP and Bundys mum) As far as not being concerned about high energy a high energy breed WILL be destructive, dig, chew, bark, generally be awful!! boisterous etc etc. jump on the kids, IF it does not have a lot of exercise and mental stimulation daily, rain or shine, tired or not, etc etc. and this goes triple if the dog is not going to be with the family ie. upstairs if that is where they are, when they are home. Most gundog breeds are like this, particularly vizsssssss. Oh, and ditto Spinone Have you considered an older dog? Some breed mature early and some never do (gundogs eternal good time guys) many older working breeds are great, mature, not bothered about being outside alone if they have comfort etc. One younger than about 4 or 5 would have more need of plenty of exercise. This is what we have found anyway, others may have different experiences. Poodles love love people. So do cavs...............

Busterlove, your Sophie sounds just like my ACD girl Pindi, she would do the same and never had a fight. excellent judgement and skills When she got old we would take the other dogs for long walks without her, then pick her up on the way past and go for a short walk. On the first walk, we would get accosted, barked at etc by all the dogs, with Pindi, not one dog even barked! She had a quiet power and was highly respected.

Good taste!! I love these too Rupert is a cutey! How could anyone not love these wonderful dogs??? Thanks for the lovely pics

I like the dinner idea peigirl My two girls would not protect anything, and I do not expe3ect them to. They warn bark when we are at home, but I have been reliabley told by friends that when they knock on the door, my dogs don't make a sound if we are out!!! So I guess they are only 'brave' when we are home! When they bark if we are home, people who do not know them are very frightened of them. However, I have had a protective ACD and have a protective BC. Both very under control, but, would and have protect if there is any type of threat. This has not been a trained response and no damage has ever been done by them to animal or human and both dogs were and are always under control. The good part is that I felt very comfortable when nanny ACD was with the kids and now when BC is with my daughter as I know they are safe. When we had wolfies we were robbed! Thanks to my mum telling the robber that they would not hurt anyone!!(came to the door 'looking' for someone). One time my male was approached by a couple of kelpies who meant business whil we were walking, had never heard him growl before, he let out a very very low growl for about 3 seconds, the dogs RAN. I've never seen anything like it. Another friend who had a littermate was attacked by a gsd and the wolfie 'threw' it and unfortunately broke it's neck. After that I never underestimated the power of these dogs who are very gentle and sooky and loving, but if really pushed are able to be protective.

ZA very informative, my experiences mirror your info. and we did do the build up vacc, 3 of increasing strengths over a period of time then the final strength for the rest of the vacc. which we are still on. My dog had huge ear troubles and the vacc. has meant no ear probs at all since, so about 18 months. It's wonderful. I'm wondering with time frames and ''success' and 'cures' etc. if some people might not listen porperly because they are worried or stressed. I also think it's very important as a client, to ask questions, as many as you can think of, to clarify things. Even repeat things back ie. So, you are saying there is a 70% cure rate? No, I am saying there is a 70% success rate in the range of symptoms............ etc. if you get what I mean? Communication is very important and often the client is to blame through not realising what the jargon really means.

My derm never said the dog would be fixed/cured but that in most cases management works really well and if you are LUCKY the dog may be able to come off vacc after a couple of years or so. I never expected a 'cure'. My dog was in bad shape, so I am very happy with our results of no symptoms at all :D

attacks in just six weeks 29th May 2010 Felicity and her beloved poodle Pipi are both recovering from a dog attack. SHE HAD just suffered the loss of her husband so when an aggressive dog tried to take away her beloved family pet, Point Vernon's Felicity put herself in harm's way to save his life. On Tuesday Felicity was walking her poodle Pipi home from the beach when a large mastiff-cross leapt over the two-metre fence surrounding its yard and attacked them. The dog picked up the poodle and threw it twice before knocking Felicity to the ground and almost tearing her fingers off. “I only lost my husband two weeks ago and I couldn't lose Pipi as well,” Felicity said. “When he knocked me down he was looking straight into my eyes so I put my hands up to protect my face and that's how my hands got injured. “It was terrifying.” Both Felicity and her poodle had to have surgery and Pipi is still in a bad way. “I really hope he gets better,” Felicity said. “I don't know what I would do without him.” Yesterday the Fraser Coast Regional Council's Gaye Ah Quay said compliance officers had dealt with 33 attacks – 24 in Hervey Bay and nine in Maryborough – on people and other animals in the past six weeks. She said dogs were getting over and breaking through fences and could be dangerous if let out into an environment without their owners. She also stressed that dogs should be exercised on leads and if let off, watched closely to make sure they did not get into fights. “All dogs can be unpredictable and often these instances are as traumatic for the owner of the attacking dog as they are for the injured dog's owner,” Ms Ah Quay said. “Many are shocked to realise that the dog they thought was gentle and harmless could turn into a killer.” Two weeks ago Hervey Bay grandfather Tony Skehan could only watch in horror as a rottweiler mauled his pet poodle of 13 years, Lily. Mr Skehan was walking Lily on the Esplanade when the rottweiler burst out of its enclosure from behind a building and grabbed the tiny poodle. The rottweiler shook Lily repeatedly before finally letting go but it was too late. “We took her to the vet but she was too far gone and she had to be put down,” Mr Skehan said. “It was very sad.” While losing the family pet was devastating, Mr Skehan said he was lucky his grand-daughter was not with him. Three-year-old Maisie was at pre-school on the day of the attack but if he had gone for the walk a little later in the day, she would have been with him. “It could have been her,” Mr Skehan said. “That's what scares me the most.” He's also concerned that some elderly pet owners who don't want to let go of their big dogs are putting others at risk. “Older people can't control big dogs,” he said. “They shouldn't be allowed to have them.” Both attacks are still being investigated by council officers.

Update, it's in todays Fraser Coast Chronicle, I do not know how to get it on the net??? Anyway, 33 attacks on both humans and dogs!!!! in the last 6 weeks, different dogs did the attacks, some dogs scaled their own fences in order to attack :D will see if I can upload the article somehow.

agree, but they are actually really good re animal stuff, advertise all the pets every week that are in the pound, have education pages in the papers, animal walks and days etc. I'm so surprised by this attack thing.

It seems that in Hervey Bay there have been 33 dog attacks (on dogs and also on humans who interfere) in 6 weeks! A work colleague of mine was just on with her mini poodle who had her stomach ripped out ;) by a roaming dog, the lady had to go to hospital as she was bitten saving her dog. The dog is stapled all around her middle, almost ripped in two. Another person had their dog killed whilst it was in their arms! by another dog and animal control officers are pleading with the public to keep their dogs confined so this does not happen. How bloody awful! I feel sick about it and will be keeping to our usual walk near home :D That's a hell of a lot of attacks for a small town. Anyone living around here, be careful :D None of the attacked dogs were roaming or off lead. Bloody irresponsible owners

The vaccs may not work first off which is why you should have a check up at about 6 months to see if it needs changing. so if it has not worked and also has not been changed, it is definately worth seeing if a change helps. Of course other treatments can never be discounted either

Yes I see what you mean Stormie re success rate I agree, a cure would be very unlikely. Sometimes you can go off vacc after a couple of years, but I was told that a real 'cure' would be highly unlikely. I'm so happy with management of the problem that I haven't really thought about a cure.