One Trainer's Perspective on the Breeds
So many choices, so little time. To put it mildly, the reason so many dogs & humans are unhappy together is at the very beginning. Selecting the right breed of dog for your family, your activity level, your lifestyle is the first most important decision you should make. This should be done realistically. Do not buy a Giant Schnauzer because you intend to start jogging. That Giant Schnauzer is going to require a lot of exercise both mental & physically. The dog doesn't understand what you intended to do (start jogging). What matters to the dog is what you actually do. If you are a jogger already & you want to select a dog who can go with you, a Giant Schnauzer is an excellent prospect. If you are a couch potato, you've been a couch potato & exercise for you is a walk to the car: no matter of intention to start jogging is going to help you with that Giant Schnauzer puppy. If you want a couch potato you have a lot of breeds to choose from: a Giant Schanuzer isn't going to be your best choice. Likewise if you have kids & they're a rowdy group a tiny toy or a Saluki isn't likely to be your best choice.
Part of being a responsible pet owner is selecting a pet that is appropriate for your lifestyle. It makes for a truly happy dog & a truly happy family. You must also consider all members of the house hold (human & animal).
My disclaimer is going to be very clear & very blunt. The information on this site & in particular concerning the various breeds & groups is my opinion based on my experience as a handler & trainer. You as the reader must do your own homework. You as the reader must keep in mind that discussing a breed is discussing the breed on the whole. Allowances for individuality must be made. But please understand that often times when you find a dog that doesn't fit the norm of the breed, this individual is an exception to the rule. Also, when I speak of dogs by breed let's assume that we're talking about properly bred, healthy, normal individuals that is average for the breed.
Part of being a responsible pet owner is selecting a pet that is appropriate for your lifestyle. It makes for a truly happy dog & a truly happy family. You must also consider all members of the house hold (human & animal).
My disclaimer is going to be very clear & very blunt. The information on this site & in particular concerning the various breeds & groups is my opinion based on my experience as a handler & trainer. You as the reader must do your own homework. You as the reader must keep in mind that discussing a breed is discussing the breed on the whole. Allowances for individuality must be made. But please understand that often times when you find a dog that doesn't fit the norm of the breed, this individual is an exception to the rule. Also, when I speak of dogs by breed let's assume that we're talking about properly bred, healthy, normal individuals that is average for the breed.