Deciding On A Dog Breed

[erinonthefarm]

What about an australian cattle dog? They are pretty low maintenance, and low energy for a working dog from what I've seen. People recognise them for being protective and they are very smart and loyal. Only issue would be extra socialisation to overcome their natural tendancy to trap visitors .

Go to some dog shows to see what appeals to you too- There are hundreds of dog breeds but you need to meet quite a few individuals and their breeders/ handlers to get a good grasp on what their personality is like.

[MissMaddy]

The only cattle dogs I've met have been severely understimulated (so they had a bit of misplaced agression because they were bored out of their brains), so not something I'd think for a first timer.

Honestly, my male GSD is a lot easier to train and more laid back than most retrievers, so if you really want a GSD, you may be able to find one to suit you. You could look at an older dog so you already know what the dog is like and it has (hopefully) basic training. Pity you're not in Victoria so you could some and meet my guys and those of friends of mine. There are GSDs suitable for first time owners, but you need a breeder who knows their dogs and lines to help you choose the right puppy.

Border collies or Aussie shepherds also still say suitable to me. Big enough, and enough energy so you can move onto a GSD next if you're not ready for one yet.

[Guest english.ivy]

My two cents .. A Groenendael aka Belgian Shepherd.

Meduim sized breed with a meduim to long coat that only needs a quick brush every now and then. No doggy smell. Self clean coat I find.

I find them to have a low to meduim engery level, but if you want to go out for a hike or spend hours playing at the beach, then they are always up for it. They are also really happy to chill at home doing nothing.

Very loyal and protective.

A lot of people are scared of Ivy as she looks like a black wolf, I have people take a large circle around her when we are out walking. She barks in alert. I'm a small person and feel safe walking with my Belgian.

They're the best kept secret

[Dogsrawesome]

You could look at an older dog so you already know what the dog is like and it has (hopefully) basic training. Pity you're not in Victoria so you could some and meet my guys and those of friends of mine.

I was actually thinking cause i really want a german shepherd i could just buy or rescue an older one :D i will be a committed owner and i do not give up easily. I agree on the cattle dog idea they need a lot of work and i would want a bigger back yard. That would of been awesome to meet yours ^^.

My two cents .. A Groenendael aka Belgian Shepherd.

I love the Belgian shepherds all types especially the Groenendael my mum also likes them so if im still at home thats also a possibility

[Guest english.ivy]

My two cents .. A Groenendael aka Belgian Shepherd.

I love the Belgian shepherds all types :D especially the Groenendael my mum also likes them so if im still at home thats also a possibility

I know of an awesome Groen breeder who is planning a litter in a couple of months

Edited January 28, 2011 by english.ivy

[Dogsrawesome]

I dno my dog atm is really old and has to go to the vet this arvo cause he is having trouble walking around and if something bad happens i think i will be waiting a while but thanks for letting me know :D