I have always owned dogs up until about 12 months ago, and have been dogless since then....however I miss having one around and have started doing some research into breeds that would suit my lifestyle and my family. I kind of have a short list, but would like opinions from people that actually own them! And I know this gets done to death so I'm sorry! LOL
Ok, I have 4 cats, one of which was badly mauled by a dog last year, and nearly didn't make it. So any dog with an instinct to chase or hunt is a big no no. I have two kids, one is a teenager but the other is 3 this year.
I am home most of the time as I study, I am a single mum. I also have horses, but they don't live with me, so dog might see them occasionally.
I want a couch potato type dog. I have had high drive dogs in the past and in between studying and having a toddler I don't have time for hours and hours of training and walking every day. I have competed in obedience in the past and attended quite a few training clinics, so I am not a beginner owner, but just time short!
I am able to train and walk every day, would like a dog I could teach basics too, and tricks etc, but not something that will come home from an hours walk and still want to eat my couch :p
Dog would be inside most of the time, would sleep inside with me at night etc etc. Grooming is not an issue either, I don't mind that.
So the dog I love the most of my list so far is the Keeshond, I think they are just beautiful! But friends have also suggested the Toller, the Whippet, the Brittany, Briard or Lagotto!
So I'd like to hear from anyone that owns these breeds if they'd suit what I am after......
I have also contacted a few breeders asking questions, but haven't heard back from anyone yet. Do breeders prefer ph calls rather than emails as initial contact?
Anyway any advice about those breeds mentioned (or even others I may not have thought of yet!) would be appreciated. Bearing in mind that I REALLY love the Keeshonds, and I hope they are what I need! LOL!! Thanks :)