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Post by JeffOver on Mar 7, 2008 17:29:29 GMT -8
Hi all, I'm a little leery of posting this here, since this can be a sensitive topic on a birding forum, and I should probably post this on a dog forum, but I thought maybe somebody on this forum may have some knowledge about dogs. I am looking to buy (or get for free) an outside dog. However, having experience, I now have several stipulations: --First, to break the ice, one that doesn't chase birds Seriously, now... --Will "behave" if free in the backyard all day; doesn't chew a lot, or dig up dirt, plants, grass, etc. --Is good with small children especially, and everyone else --Is good with other dogs, both big and small; not agressive --does not have super-high energy; on the other hand, not too little either --gentle --decent size (not little dogs) I realize that some of these stipulations involve training the dog, but I'm wondering if anyone knows of breeds that have one or more of these as somewhat natural characteristics. Perhaps, if anyone wishes to respond, it would be best to send me a personal message using the personal messaging system on the forum. Thanks, Jeff
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Post by Gord on Mar 7, 2008 20:06:45 GMT -8
Jeff, no problems posting that here. Good luck on finding a dog!
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Post by blackgavotte on Mar 15, 2008 16:35:17 GMT -8
Jeff, you probably are best looking at lab or golden retrievers or mixes of same. Individuals in these breeds may be birdy, but not necessarily so. Bernese Mountain dogs are also wonderfully gentle and laid back. Just remember, that any dog left for long hours can be bored when alone, even in what we humans consider a wonderful yard. That's when they start digging, chewing or barking. Remember also that when its hot and there isn't enough cool ground or shade for THEM, not us, they will often dig to get to a cooler spot. Its just a doggy thing. You need to choose a laid back dog, who will be content to live this quiet, somewhat isolated life. Sometimes its actually better to have two dogs, for company, but you need to balance out the two temperaments of course, to one another and to your needs. Phone the private rescue organizations, you can often get a lovely dog who needs a good home, for not much money, they'll be leary of letting any dog go to anyone who refuses to pay something, they feel that that person may either be looking for a fighting pit -or-bait dog, or just not value it enough,so expect to pay something. Vets and pet stores can often help you network to find these organizations, the SANS society immediately comes to mind just now, try googling that, they're in the Mission area and always looking for good homes for adult dogs. Good luck.
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Post by teekaygee on Mar 17, 2008 13:10:49 GMT -8
Jeff, I've been showing dogs for over 25 years, so have had exposure to many breeds, and have lots of good contacts. I'm curious why you want an 'outside' dog; dogs are pack animals, and as such are happiest living as part of the family. Dogs behave best when they have been trained, socialized, and provided with sufficient physical and mental exercise. There are many factors to consider when getting a dog, some of which you have mentioned...others are things like coat care (even shorter coated dogs need grooming), health concerns in the breed and what the history of the breed is. What a breed has been bred to do can contribute a lot to their trainability etc. Adopting a rescue dog is a wonderful thing to do, but they often have issues based on their past, so can require a lot of extra work to train and socialize them. You might want to try reading up about various breeds in something like the "Dogs Annual". Then call local breeders to discuss the breed in more detail. Go and meet various breeds to get a better perspective of what they are like. If you attend one of the local dog shows, you can get to see a lot of breeds in a day which can be useful. Feel free to contact me privately if you want more info. cheers.
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Post by JeffOver on Mar 17, 2008 13:37:50 GMT -8
Thanks everyone who responded. After reading all your posts, I have decided that at this time I should not get a dog. The reason I first asked the question was that I currently have a dog who listens well when undistracted, but goes nuts when she sees other dogs when we go for a walk, and even to some extent, other people. But that's a long story. At any rate, I have decided that I have not socialized and/or trained her good enough; neither do I have that as a priority. As a result, I am looking to bring her to a shelter or give her away. I had been hoping I could get a dog that would be different, but after reading everyone's post, I have decided that I probably could not provide any dog a good home right now. So, thanks again everyone for enlightening me on the responsibilities of owning a dog; even though the outcome may not have been what you expected, your advice was still very useful. Have a good one!
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