Puppy Breed Advice/opinion Needed

[SammyZ]

I am thinking about what puppy to get next and would like some opinions if possible. I currently have a bully x old gal and she is content to sleep in my bedroom all day at the moment. Angel will keep on sleeping in my bedroom while I work (three days a week) as she does now and the puppy will have its own shelter (brick shed with bedding etc) and run outside (I will section off some of the garden and increase this while they grow). Obviously when I am home they will both be inside with me

I am really torn between an Irish Setter and a Great Dane.

I was firmly fixed on an Irish Setter. It is a breed I am very familiar with and love. I also want to give Gracie, my two year old, the experience of growing up with one as I know that I loved it. Beautiful dogs to have around children (supervised of course ) imho. We had a few as family pets when I was young. I 'know' them and their requirements. I have been to see a lovely breeder and saw a bitch who is due to come in season later in the year that has the most amazing temperament. We have quite a lot of native birds around the area so one of my hesitations is that an Irish might be barky when I am not home when they see one! I know that my other Irish's used to be like that but I know that training will help with this

After going to see Jet, a black Great Dane, at the RSPCA about a month back I have also fallen for this breed. I just loved the feel of walking him. Might have something to do with the fact that I am just under six foot! Felt very comfortable And loved the personality. I also feel they would be fantastic around a child and possibly less 'barky'? I am also thinking that the Great Dane might actually be more of a 'guard dog' than an Irish. I obviously don't want an 'attack guard dog' at all but would like reassurance that they will bark if need be. I can't get Great Danes out of my head!!

Ok my situation is: own a strata home (with approval to have dogs :D ), 3 bedroom (the new pup will have a bedroom of its own!), medium sized yard, good fences, across the road from open spaces and walk paths. I will walk at least once a day for up to an hour with on and off leash time on work days and twice a day every other day. I also like being social with my dog ie taking them to a park cafe etc. I am able to take time off work to spend with the puppy initially then will be coming home at lunchtime to spend time with the pup and Mum, who lives 2 minutes away, will also be coming during the day to spend time with the pup. I know for a fact that Mum would be more comfy spending time with an Irish Setter as she is 'used' to them iykwim. I work Mon, Wed and Fri from 7.30 to 4.30, the rest of the time I am at home. I am on my own with a little two and a half year old girl who is respectful to dogs, doesn't rush them etc.

I love them both - help! What is your advice?

Edited April 12, 2008 by becboo

[Dogsfevr]

Are you still wanting to show??

As for irish you are very aware of its needs but also consider those breeding them.Are they from working lines or show lines??

Obviously if you want to show you need to learn to groom so added expenses for the future ,if you want to show the great dane then its wash & wear

The great danes are great dogs obvioulsy require early training which any breed requires.

The main pitfall they tend not to have a long life span.I believe 8 years of age is a good iinnings

Until atleast 2 years they are still growing so exercise as a youngster will be more minimial.

On the 3 may there are 2 shows on that will have a good turnout of both breeds .

The gundog club & non sporting dog club both start at 9am

[SammyZ]

Ta so much settrlvr.

Yes - showing is still an option at the moment. The breeder I am looking at at the moment for Irish Setters is primarily show lines (I actually think I contacted you regarding looking for a breeder earlier this year via email and, if it was you, you gave some fantastic advice!) which makes sense regarding energy output and wanting to possibly head that direction. Good consideration regarding grooming requirements of irish and GD for show. I must admit the lifespan would be upsetting as I find it hard enough with a 12 year old innings with our setters But then again dogs bring so much joy regardless of how long they are with us but it is just devastating when they pass.

Just this morning I saw a red setter being walked (the people must live in my area) and my gut reaction was I LOVE YOU! lol! I think either breed would be fantastic but I just need to make the decision I am dreaming of having both but I think it would be a touch too crazy with an Irish and GD pup

Ta for the show info - great to have an idea re: time slot etc

[Luke GSP]

personally I would have gone with the setter as although they are not a small breed thay aren't as BOOFY as a GD around a child that will be about 4YO once the dog is fully grown. Saying that several people have told me that GD's are less active than a lot of breeds especially the hunting breeds. I would still have to go for the setter though. Then again you could stop messing about with these other breeds and get a pointer of course? similar size to a setter. similar coat to a GD, great with kids. Just wanted to "point" you in the right direction.

[SparkyTansy]

I'd go with a setter too

BUT... they are very specific with their needs, like any breed, plenty of research would determine whether you are in a good situation to own either breed. Then, it comes down to personal preference. I suppose one of the big differences to look at is coat... The Irish coat is a consideration not just for the show ring, but also that they have longer hair which does show in the house, on your clothes etc! Are you happy to spend the time grooming? If you don't learn to groom yourself are you happy to send your dog to a groomer or at least keep it brushed regularly?

Irish have a big energy factor too, which you will need to keep in mind.

Have you considered an English setter, for something slightly more mellow?

Best of luck with your decision... it is yours at the end of the day. Perhaps it would be wise to come to a couple of shows (the ones Settrlvr mentioned are both good... the Gundog club usually gets a fairly good irish entry) and ask the owners about each breeds little quirks (the ones you don't read about in the books!)... as you have had an irish growing up, I still say an irish might be best - but i am biased when it comes to setters of any description!!

[SammyZ]

Ta guys for your posts. Love the 'pointing' Luke

I am going to go with what I know - an Irish Setter it is

SparkyTansy - I used to groom/brush/wash etc the setters we had (my job rather than the poo-patrol ) and loved it I do remember the red hair spinifex thing though across the tiles lol - might have to invest in a better vacuum cleaner The other major consideration is that I like going on long walks/jogs and an Irish will probably be more suited to this than a Great Dane I think. I have my name down for a girl puppy so fingers crossed, all things going well, that will be happening at the end of the this year!

Ta again,

Bec.