Let's talk about dogs

fatchowmein

I recall reading about a professional burgler. He wasn't scared of a homeowner with a gun because most aren't train to use it. He wasn't scared of dogs because he usually carried a weapon. What was he scared of? Two dobermans. They attack in groups and he could only fend off one.

+1 to McLoki's comments. For families, I'd recommend a watch dog, not a guard dog. I'm partial to labs. They're high energy dogs and they want to be around the family all the time. That being said, you may not want one with that much energy. Golden retrievers are generally mellower but will bark at anyone attempting to break in. Personality/temper plays a large part. Just don't get a neurotic one.

I'd start with at least 2 years old. 8 months, especially for large breeds, are still considered puppies.

Good luck.

shawn474

We have a Jack Russell Terrier at home who is incredible with my daughter and all other kids she has ever been around. They are notorious for being yippy, but have a "big dog in a small body" attitude. She sounds mean when the doorbell rings or there is an unusual noise, but it doesn't go any further than that with humans. She is pretty indifferent around other dogs, but will protect. A Chocalte Lab mix was off leash in our neighborhood was approaching my wife and daughter growling while they were on a walk and she protected them. She spent the night in the ER with a laceration wound and a pucture wound, got 6 stitches and was ready to go the next day.

Shawn

Mike682

Heading back to a few shelters today.

North Shore has 50% adoptions this weekend

fatchowmein: I actually grew up with a doberman/german shepherd mix and he was an excellent dog for us however, was aggressive toward anyone else which made it difficult when we had friends over.

McLoki

So Mike - did you end up getting a dog? If so, what did you get and how is it working out for you?