NationStates Jolt Archive

I live in an apartment right now and while we could have small dogs, we instead have chosen to wait because what I REALLY want is a German Shepherd. When we get a house someday, I shall have at least one.

1)They're intelligent. I want a dog who can be a companion that would be fun to actually interact with. NOt only that but big enough to wrestle with and not be absolutely assured of victory.
2)They'll watch over my kids. I want a dog who will assist me by guarding my children. German Shepherds are known to corral kids too, and that's just awesome.
3)They'll defend the home. Guns are great for home defense but worthless when you're not home. A German Shepherd has no such problem.
4)They're beautiful dogs. I think of all the dogs breeds this one's my favorite in appearance.

What about you?

What you really want is Blood Hounds of Khorne. Never mind not meeting any of those criteria :p

Im getting a Husky. Medium sized dog, theyre cute, theyre really playful, and I can name it Vlad and it would fit :p


German Shepards are a good call too though. Fun dogs to play with and protective as all hell.

Blood Hounds of Khorne. Never mind not meeting any of those criteria :p

Yeah but they don't get an armor save and then it's nothing but panic test after panic test...


Sounds to me like what you want is a German Shepard. Theyre protective as all hell. Big dogs, like to play. Good dogs too.

I think I may have awkwardly stated the topic, but my intention was to hear from each person what kind of dog is best for THEM, such that the 'me' in the title applies to the individual poster.

I like mutts. I've got nothing against pure breeds, but I just don't really see much point in trying to get one when there are so many mixed breeds out there that need homes.

I do prefer medium to large dogs. Little yappy ones tend to get on my nerves.

We've currently got a corgi mix (maybe mixed with some sort of shepherd? not sure) and a bloodhound mix (mixed with who-the-heck-knows). They're both wonderful dogs. Both are good with kids, especially my hound, who absolutely loves kids.

I'm also a big fan of rottweillers (mixes/purebred) and huskies.

Had a wonderful German Shepherd as a kid, but I was too young to appreciate him and we didn't have enough of a backyard to give him the room he needed. =(

I think I may have awkwardly stated the topic, but my intention was to hear from each person what kind of dog is best for THEM, such that the 'me' in the title applies to the individual poster.



No, your topic was fine, I just had a DURRRRR moment and didnt read properly. See my edit ;)

I live in an apartment right now and while we could have small dogs, we instead have chosen to wait because what I REALLY want is a German Shepherd. When we get a house someday, I shall have at least one.

1)They're intelligent. I want a dog who can be a companion that would be fun to actually interact with. NOt only that but big enough to wrestle with and not be absolutely assured of victory.
2)They'll watch over my kids. I want a dog who will assist me by guarding my children. German Shepherds are known to corral kids too, and that's just awesome.
3)They'll defend the home. Guns are great for home defense but worthless when you're not home. A German Shepherd has no such problem.
4)They're beautiful dogs. I think of all the dogs breeds this one's my favorite in appearance.

What about you?

I've had many German Shepard mixes over my life time (about 10 of them actually) they are awesomely good dogs. I suggest getting a mix because they are smarter and have less health issues, they are pretty easy to find in shelters (there are even German Shepard rescues!) and they are awesome with kids. I loves them.

When my kids move out I am getting a neopolitan mastiff. I figure he will eat about the same amount of food as two children and so my grocery budget won't go up much. I grew up next door to one, he was a very loving dog and very funny. I don't want one until I have tons of time to train and love on him though.

I also considered a Briard, they are cute, but the 4 I know don't have a temperament that I like, they are all kinda shy and lazy. I need a playful cuddle monster.

I've always liked Boxers; they've got a great temperament, good with kids and small dogs, intelligent and sociable. Unfortunately I'm way too urban to ever afford the space to keep one. :( So I've learned to like cats.

*snip*
I'm also a big fan of rottweillers (mixes/purebred) and huskies.
*snip*

I love the way Huskies look, but I'm told they're not great with children and aren't very bright. That seems to be the case often with dogs that tend to run in packs like Huskies or Beagles.

No, your topic was fine, I just had a DURRRRR moment and didnt read properly. See my edit ;)

Roger that. I think if I were to get a Husky I'd have to get at least 2, kinda like if I ever got a Beagle again they'd have to come as a set.

I love the way Huskies look, but I'm told they're not great with children and aren't very bright. That seems to be the case often with dogs that tend to run in packs like Huskies or Beagles.

I can vouch for Huskies being dull. My aunt had one.......that thing was hilariously stupid. He wasn't very adept at the running and thinking at the same time thing either. He ran into walls daily. (which probably didn't help his IQ much)

My mix breeds have always been smarter than the pure breeds though.

I live in an apartment right now and while we could have small dogs, we instead have chosen to wait because what I REALLY want is a German Shepherd. When we get a house someday, I shall have at least one.

1)They're intelligent. I want a dog who can be a companion that would be fun to actually interact with. NOt only that but big enough to wrestle with and not be absolutely assured of victory.
2)They'll watch over my kids. I want a dog who will assist me by guarding my children. German Shepherds are known to corral kids too, and that's just awesome.
3)They'll defend the home. Guns are great for home defense but worthless when you're not home. A German Shepherd has no such problem.
4)They're beautiful dogs. I think of all the dogs breeds this one's my favorite in appearance.

What about you?

I have a wonderful German Shepherd named Daisy. She is my protector and guardian!! I was not a dog lover until I married and my hubby had her. (Note I claim her as mine now :p)

I would have never believed that a dog could be so much company...and so well behaved. She is an inside dog for the most part (though does romp in the yard, play football with us, and go camping). I accuse her occassionally of being a cat she is so prissy at times. :p But she is the best sport ever and very playful.


http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn24/Pelecanus_photos/2004Christmas-1.jpg

I moved from a small rural community to a large crime filled city and have never worried in the least. As you say, she is all the protection we need.

German Shepherds rule! :D

I can vouch for Huskies being dull. My aunt had one.......that thing was hilariously stupid. He wasn't very adept at the running and thinking at the same time thing either. He ran into walls daily. (which probably didn't help his IQ much)

My mix breeds have always been smarter than the pure breeds though.

I've heard that too.

The problem with purebred Shepherds is they have trouble with hip displasia (sp?) where the femur doesn't fit right in the socket on the pelvis. This causes excruciating pain as they age unless they get hip replacement surgery. My wife, being a vet tech, knows all about these things so I feel pretty comfortable that we'll choose well when we go to get one.

The other thing we'd do is get the stomach 'attached' to the ribcage. Apparently in larger dogs if they eat and then immediately go running it can cause their stomach to literally flip over and twist itself shut. This surgery would prevent that, and woul dbe done presumably at the same time as the neutering.

I have a wonderful German Shepherd named Daisy. She is my protector and guardian!! I was not a dog lover until I married and my hubby had her. (Note I claim her as mine now :p)

I would have never believed that a dog could be so much company...and so well behaved. She is an inside dog for the most part (though does romp in the yard, play football with us, and go camping). I accuse her occassionally of being a cat she is so prissy at times. :p But she is the best sport ever and very playful.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn24/Pelecanus_photos/2004Christmas.jpg

I moved from a small rural community to a large crime filled city and have never worried in the least. As you say, she is all the protection we need.

German Shepherds rule! :D

Great antlers LOL

I love the way Huskies look, but I'm told they're not great with children and aren't very bright. That seems to be the case often with dogs that tend to run in packs like Huskies or Beagles.

Really? I hadn't heard that. The one my uncle had was very friendly and bright, but she could have been the exception, I suppose.

I definitely can't have any pets that aren't good with kids. Not only am I planning on having kids sometime in the next few years, but I'm also starting to get nieces and possibly nephews and I don't need the hassle of trying to keep my dogs away from them.

I've heard that too.

The problem with purebred Shepherds is they have trouble with hip displasia (sp?) where the femur doesn't fit right in the socket on the pelvis. This causes excruciating pain as they age unless they get hip replacement surgery. My wife, being a vet tech, knows all about these things so I feel pretty comfortable that we'll choose well when we go to get one.

The other thing we'd do is get the stomach 'attached' to the ribcage. Apparently in larger dogs if they eat and then immediately go running it can cause their stomach to literally flip over and twist itself shut. This surgery would prevent that, and woul dbe done presumably at the same time as the neutering.



Great antlers LOL

Thanks! She really is a good sport, a giant ham as you can see. :p

We used to have a rabbit, she was very protective of it too. People told me she would kill Skippy, but she didn't. And when Skippy died she stood by her rabbit house and wimpered. It was so sad.

GS are super intelligent and very obedient. I will say her only real flaw is that she is 'dog agressive' with dogs she does not know. Seeing another dog walking down the street and she will go into defense mode complete with growling. I don't know if that is in protection of us, her people, or if it is simply she sees them as enemies.

The vet told me it wasn't uncommon at all though, that lots of dogs are 'dog agressive'. I just thought all dogs loved all other dogs. :p Not so.

I was couch ridden for several months following some major surgery and it took help for me to raise up and stand up to walk anywhere. She would lay on the floor beside me and when I needed help I would just tell her to go get someone and she would trot off and nudge one of the kids or my hubby to come. It was amazing really. She was like my nurse. ;)

The problem with purebred Shepherds is they have trouble with hip displasia (sp?) where the femur doesn’t fit right in the socket on the pelvis. This causes excruciating pain as they age unless they get hip replacement surgery.
Goooooo inbreeding!

Really? I hadn't heard that. The one my uncle had was very friendly and bright, but she could have been the exception, I suppose.

I definitely can't have any pets that aren't good with kids. Not only am I planning on having kids sometime in the next few years, but I'm also starting to get nieces and possibly nephews and I don't need the hassle of trying to keep my dogs away from them.

When I was reading up on German Shepherds I was fascinated by the idea that such dogs will actually herd children around for you and keep them from running off. I've even heard stories of times when the parent would call the kids to come in the house and if they didn't, the dog would go get them and drive them to the house with little nips and nudges. That just seems incredibly useful to me.

I wouldn't let m y kids be outside unsupervised when they're little, but having a dog that will rip the arm off of anyone who messes with them or who will make sure they all stay close is a big source for peace of mind.


GS are super intelligent and very obedient. I will say her only real flaw is that she is 'dog agressive' with dogs she does not know. Seeing another dog walking down the street and she will go into defense mode complete with growling. I don't know if that is in protection of us, her people, or if it is simply she sees them as enemies.

The vet told me it wasn't uncommon at all though, that lots of dogs are 'dog agressive'. I just thought all dogs loved all other dogs. :p Not so.


My wife was saying that when we go to get the dog she'd take him/her to work with her often so the dog is accustomed to being around other animals and won't be dog aggressive so much. This is especially important if you know someone who has a dog that likes to come running up to greet you. A defensive dog like a GS could easily misinterpret that as a threat...

When I was reading up on German Shepherds I was fascinated by the idea that such dogs will actually herd children around for you and keep them from running off. I've even heard stories of times when the parent would call the kids to come in the house and if they didn't, the dog would go get them and drive them to the house with little nips and nudges. That just seems incredibly useful to me.

Some dogs have been bred to bring out a herding type of instinct. Corgis will do much the same thing, from what I understand.

Mine will even try and herd us, if he thinks we're supposed to be somewhere.

Any shepherd is cool. They're intelligent, loyal, and trainable. And they're beautiful dogs. Border collies are also good like this.

My wife has a Yorkie, and that dog is a little too crazy. The dog is her pride and joy, but she tries to pick fights with other dogs and is vicious toward the cats. But at least she doesn't shed or drool.

I have a collie / whippet cross and he's a fantastic fun dog. He loves to play rough and tumble, and gets stupidly excited when he thinks you're about to throw a ball for him to chase, but is incredibly sweet natured and friendly to both dogs and people. He's good at letting us know if there's somebody near the house but is happy to accept anybody we accept. He's also very cute :)

i gave it a lot of thought and decided i wanted a miniature poodle. i love the idea of having a very smart dog that i can teach to do cool tricks.

i just got a poodle maltese cross from an owner who couldnt take proper care of him. he is smart, cheerful, active and good with all people. i am very satisfied so far.

My mom lives in an apartment and she always recommend the miniature dachshund for apartment dwellers. She has one named Sayuri. She says that, other than the usual chewing of shoes and furniture, these little dogs are great for small living areas. Plus, they're just so cute.

http://www.dogcastradio.com/images/Dachshund.jpg

My aunt and uncle had English Spaniels from a rescue group, they were nice but kind of aloof and not very bright. They have a Welsh Spaniel now, and she's both disgustingly cute and very sweet. She has a blog (http://cocobeanchanel.blogspot.com), if you want to see pics.

I'm partial to Rottweiler mixes, myself. redwulf like Golden Retrievers. Once we have room, we may be rescuing two puppies. To go with our two rescued cats.

I wouldn't let m y kids be outside unsupervised when they're little, but having a dog that will rip the arm off of anyone who messes with them or who will make sure they all stay close is a big source for peace of mind.

I once babysat for a family that had a Rott. Sweet, wonderful dog, just the absolute friendliest animal on the planet. Until it looked like you might hurt her humans. I once had to reach out and grab the kid to keep her from doing something stupid (hurling herself down the stairs, IIRC), and the dog snapped at me. Didn't bite, just made it perfectly clear that I was not allowed to treat her pack like that.

My mom lives in an apartment and she always recommend the miniature dachshund for apartment dwellers. She has one named Sayuri. She says that, other than the usual chewing of shoes and furniture, these little dogs are great for small living areas. Plus, they're just so cute.

I am so not a dachshund kind of person. They're just so... small. Small and yappy.

I am so not a dachshund kind of person. They're just so... small. Small and yappy.

Try English Bulldogs,then.

I also considered a Briard, they are cute, but the 4 I know don't have a temperament that I like, they are all kinda shy and lazy. I need a playful cuddle monster.

Speaking as a Briard owner, my Hannah-bear is a cuddle monster supreme. It all depends on the breeder and the stock they use. Some breeders breed for independence and guarding instinct, and others for pure herding and gregariousness. We got the runt of a litter of eleven puppies, and she's as playful as can be and also very loyal and protective. In the absence of sheep, she'll herd birds, squirrels, children, you name it.

Lounging (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0067.jpg) (Notice we went European and did NOT crop the ears.)

In the breeze (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0561.jpg)

Waiting for the next squirrel (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0558.jpg)

There's not much perspective to show it, but she's a bit over knee-high and 70 pounds of heart wrapped in non-shedding hair. She lives in Seattle with Mom, I live in North Dakota. :(

What a timely thread - just last night my SO and I were discussing breeds of dogs, and I was talking about wanting a german shepherd one day... when we have the space. We've also wanted a border collie for a long time. Granted, there are several breeds of dogs that I'm interested in, and if he didn't stop me, we'd have tens of dogs, I'm sure. ;)

I can't do small dogs anymore - when I was a child, I had a shih-tzu, and that dog was my best friend and my life for years and years. He passed away last year, and I'll just never be able to own a small dog again... I'd constantly be thinking of Lucky. So, just medium to large dogs for me, now. My SO doesn't like little dogs anyway, so it works out.

golden retriever. Then St. Bernards, Alaskan Malamutes, Huskys, and German shepherds.

What a timely thread - just last night my SO and I were discussing breeds of dogs, and I was talking about wanting a german shepherd one day... when we have the space. We've also wanted a border collie for a long time. Granted, there are several breeds of dogs that I'm interested in, and if he didn't stop me, we'd have tens of dogs, I'm sure. ;)

I can't do small dogs anymore - when I was a child, I had a shih-tzu, and that dog was my best friend and my life for years and years. He passed away last year, and I'll just never be able to own a small dog again... I'd constantly be thinking of Lucky. So, just medium to large dogs for me, now. My SO doesn't like little dogs anyway, so it works out.

Bordies are a lot of work, and need to be kept interested or they will figure out how to do stuff on their own. I can almost guarantee that the stuff they figure out is stuff that A) you wouldn't think a dog could figure out -- this breed is SMART -- and B) you really didn't WANT them figuring out.

So worth it if you have the time and energy to invest in one.

Some dogs have been bred to bring out a herding type of instinct. Corgis will do much the same thing, from what I understand.

Mine will even try and herd us, if he thinks we're supposed to be somewhere.

That's also a good way to keep a dog from becoming ill-tempered... Let him feel like he's got a job... Or so I've heard.

I have a collie / whippet cross and he's a fantastic fun dog. He loves to play rough and tumble, and gets stupidly excited when he thinks you're about to throw a ball for him to chase, but is incredibly sweet natured and friendly to both dogs and people. He's good at letting us know if there's somebody near the house but is happy to accept anybody we accept. He's also very cute :)

I'm not sure I've ever heard of a whippet... What is it?

I once babysat for a family that had a Rott. Sweet, wonderful dog, just the absolute friendliest animal on the planet. Until it looked like you might hurt her humans. I once had to reach out and grab the kid to keep her from doing something stupid (hurling herself down the stairs, IIRC), and the dog snapped at me. Didn't bite, just made it perfectly clear that I was not allowed to treat her pack like that.

I want to like Rottweilers but I'm still getting over my anger at one that attacked my daughter last year. I don't really blame the dog in the sense that it probably felt like it was protecting its owner (my daughter was running up to greet her) but this dog is developing a reputation for causing t rouble in their neighborhood.

Rough Collie and Border Collie. I have both.

Thee highly intelligent, protective, friendly and very playful.

That's also a good way to keep a dog from becoming ill-tempered... Let him feel like he's got a job... Or so I've heard.

Absolutely.

I'm not sure I've ever heard of a whippet... What is it?

Think small greyhound. Thin and short, but quick and a good indoor dog, even for apartments. Bred to chase game smaller than the stuff greyhounds go after, and to do it by sight with speed.

Think small greyhound. Thin and short, but quick and a good indoor dog, even for apartments. Bred to chase game smaller than the stuff greyhounds go after, and to do it by sight with speed.

Interesting... I imagine such a dog would have a lot of energy tho?

You know what I hate? Small dogs. See chiwawas, palmeranians, etc.

Interesting... I imagine such a dog would have a lot of energy tho?

Here's a description (http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/whippet.htm).

My wife tells me that at work, the small dogs tend to be the more likely to bite. Pitbulls are almost never any trouble while chihuahuas get a muzzle ALWAYS.

You know what I hate? Small dogs. See chiwawas, palmeranians, etc.

Chihuahuas I've heard of, but what's a palmeranian? Sounds like a nickname for someone who masturbates to pictures of small dogs. Or perhaps it's a small dog who was bred to guard tropical trees?

Oh, Pomeranian.

My bad. :D

Here's a description (http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/whippet.htm).

Great link, thanks!

Husky, golden retriever and white shepherd looks good but if I ever get time for a dog I'd have to research a bit deeper then just the looks. I'd get along with any breed that has calm/reserved manners (like me), is good for training (if there is a need for volunteers with dogs I'd help out) and likes fast walks/jogs (okay take a dump but it'll take all day to cover 5km if we stop to smell every tree).

Bordies are a lot of work, and need to be kept interested or they will figure out how to do stuff on their own. I can almost guarantee that the stuff they figure out is stuff that A) you wouldn't think a dog could figure out -- this breed is SMART -- and B) you really didn't WANT them figuring out.

So worth it if you have the time and energy to invest in one.

My SO's family dog is a border collie, and that thing is brilliant, let me tell you. I absolutely adore him. He's getting fairly old now, so he doesn't have to be kept as active as he did a few years back, when we would rollerblade around the block with him daily.

Chihuahuas I've heard of, but what's a palmeranian? Sounds like a nickname for someone who masturbates to pictures of small dogs. Or perhaps it's a small dog who was bred to guard tropical trees?

Oh, Pomeranian.

My bad. :D

:p LOL

Oh noes on the Pom...my neighbors have one....hairy rat....never.....EVER....stops.....barking. :(

Our Daisy will go to the fence and yawn at it and it goes completely bonkers. :p

Doberman. Beautiful, proud-looking dogs, good defenders, good family dogs, mid-sized, short haired for easy cleaning. :p

On the subject of mixed breeds, I saw an afghan hound mixed with a german shepherd once... looked exactly as an afghan should, except it's hind legs were sloped like a shepherd and it's coat had the distinctive black back, brown body. It was pretty amusing.

I'm not sure I've ever heard of a whippet... What is it?



Whippets are sight hounds, much like greyhounds but smaller. Have a look here http://www.thewhippetclub.com/ for more information.

Basil is the same size and shape as a pure whippet, together with a whippet's gentle nature, but he has a much thicker coat and all the guile and herding instinct of a collie. I don't have a good picture handy, but here's one taken when he was a puppy: 60250

Edit: I was beaten to it, and Intangelon provided good information :) Just to add, he is very energetic, but I have an atlatl so I can throw his ball a loooong way. If there are other dogs about who will also chase the ball, he races them and can't stand to come second so he is easy to exercise.

The best dog breed for me would be a:
I live in an apartment right now and while we could have small dogs, we instead have chosen to wait because what I REALLY want is a German Shepherd. When we get a house someday, I shall have at least one.

1)They're intelligent. I want a dog who can be a companion that would be fun to actually interact with. NOt only that but big enough to wrestle with and not be absolutely assured of victory.
2)They'll watch over my kids. I want a dog who will assist me by guarding my children. German Shepherds are known to corral kids too, and that's just awesome.
3)They'll defend the home. Guns are great for home defense but worthless when you're not home. A German Shepherd has no such problem.
4)They're beautiful dogs. I think of all the dogs breeds this one's my favorite in appearance.

What about you?

Borzhoi

As long as people are linking pictures...

My corgi mix (dunno what with):
http://a250.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/110/l_4e1f6b6f1657415bf19b0c70b8ce0c21.jpg
With his summer haircut:
http://a611.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/71/l_8ad0343bce3d4bd94f75581de25fe392.jpg

My bloodhound mix:
http://a146.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/125/l_3d07e91ba41877ba0cfe035626085439.jpg
http://a745.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/41/l_c512651603fc6287e1d9e94a39963458.jpg

I´m a cat person. Sorry. But I also think Basset Hounds are very good. Here, take a look:
http://www.basset-hound-breeders.com/db_bassethound_alward1.jpg
We had two several years ago. One was a ¨balsina¨, much like the photo above, and the other was blonde. Kinda like this one.
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/images19/BassettHoundBandit2Years.JPG
They were awesome dogs, we named then Cali and Baby Gypsy. I miss those dogs...:(

Speaking as a Briard owner, my Hannah-bear is a cuddle monster supreme. It all depends on the breeder and the stock they use. Some breeders breed for independence and guarding instinct, and others for pure herding and gregariousness. We got the runt of a litter of eleven puppies, and she's as playful as can be and also very loyal and protective. In the absence of sheep, she'll herd birds, squirrels, children, you name it.

Lounging (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0067.jpg) (Notice we went European and did NOT crop the ears.)

In the breeze (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0561.jpg)

Waiting for the next squirrel (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0558.jpg)

There's not much perspective to show it, but she's a bit over knee-high and 70 pounds of heart wrapped in non-shedding hair. She lives in Seattle with Mom, I live in North Dakota. :(Will she herd ferrets, who are underground?

When I was a kid. I developed a strong fear of dogs from having been bitten multiple times. :(

I've pretty much gotten over it, largely thanks to the Malamute/Labrador Retriever mix my parents got about ten years ago. :) He's smart as all hell and has a great temperment.

Labrador Retrievers, Alaskan Malamutes, and English Pointers would be what I'd look for.

My wife has a Yorkie, and that dog is a little too crazy. The dog is her pride and joy, but she tries to pick fights with other dogs and is vicious toward the cats. But at least she doesn't shed or drool.

My sister-in-law loves Yorkies, and has adopted several from the animal rescue she works for. One of them was silly and tried to take on their catahoula. (>.<)

My wife tells me that at work, the small dogs tend to be the more likely to bite. Pitbulls are almost never any trouble while chihuahuas get a muzzle ALWAYS.

Indeed they do. Dogs tend to bite from fear, and an adult human is big and scary to a little dog.

a kind, gentle, loving, healthy, MUTT!

(and one that doesn't chase cats or cars, or bark at every stray squirel that walks by either)
(and not a little 'ankle attack dog' nor one as big and expensive to feed as a horse, but one just the right size for going on long walks with, out in the woods, that won't run deer or chaise rabbints without having to be always kept on a leash either)

=^^=
.../\...

Indeed they do. Dogs tend to bite from fear, and an adult human is big and scary to a little dog.

I don't think that's really the only problem though. It isn't as if there are no well-mannered small dogs out there.

I think part of the problem is that people don't think they need to put in the time to properly socialize and train little dogs. They aren't dangerous, so why bother, right? Someone with a big dog is more likely to recognize the fact that they need to make absolutely sure that their dog knows that biting humans is off limits.

I want to like Rottweilers but I'm still getting over my anger at one that attacked my daughter last year. I don't really blame the dog in the sense that it probably felt like it was protecting its owner (my daughter was running up to greet her) but this dog is developing a reputation for causing t rouble in their neighborhood.

I feel the same way about pit bulls. I know that most are kind, friendly, well-socialized dogs, but one of the bad ones chased my grandma down in the alley behind our house. It bit her ankle, holding it steady for her to fall kinda clockwise. Result? Open, compound, tib-fib break. Three weeks in hospital followed by eight weeks in a nursing home. Pain every single day. The owners? No assets, no insurance, but a $400,000 judgment hanging over their heads for allowing the dog to run outside their fence without a leash.

I feel the same way about pit bulls. I know that most are kind, friendly, well-socialized dogs, but one of the bad ones chased my grandma down in the alley behind our house. It bit her ankle, holding it steady for her to fall kinda clockwise. Result? Open, compound, tib-fib break. Three weeks in hospital followed by eight weeks in a nursing home. Pain every single day. The owners? No assets, no insurance, but a $400,000 judgment hanging over their heads for allowing the dog to run outside their fence without a leash.

most of the pitt bulls in my area are fighting dogs, so when I keep my kids away from them, people from outside the area start in on the whole "it's not the breed, it's the owners" thing and I 100% agree, but most of the owners around here are crap who fight their dogs. A week doesn't go by without some child been attacked by a P.B. I think it's smart for me to keep my kids the hell away from them.

The best dog breed for me would be a:

Cat.

most of the pitt bulls in my area are fighting dogs, so when I keep my kids away from them, people from outside the area start in on the whole "it's not the breed, it's the owners" thing and I 100% agree, but most of the owners around here are crap who fight their dogs. A week doesn't go by without some child been attacked by a P.B. I think it's smart for me to keep my kids the hell away from them.

Yeah, I can understand that. I don't trust or like the owners of the pitt who attached grandma (they have another one and a puppy). We were walking the cat along the alley one night and the dog was throwing itself against the walls of its enclosure, trying to get at her. That was kinda scary.

Will she herd ferrets, who are underground?

Not when actually underground, but otherwise, yes.

I want an Irish wolfhound, cos they're giants among dogs, and they're usually really friendly.

I like mongrels. They're usually healthy and intelligent. I had a collie-dalmation mix once - the ugliest dog I ever had. He and my cat, Clyde, were best friends, probably because they grew up together. It was hysterical as Hell to watch this 110 pound dog try to use the litter box.

Another picture, because she's so damned adorable!

Smile (http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc76/Infradog/100_0763.jpg)!

You know what I hate? Small dogs. See chiwawas, palmeranians, etc.

Yeah. Even worse are Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

I like mongrels. They're usually healthy and intelligent. I had a collie-dalmation mix once - the ugliest dog I ever had. He and my cat, Clyde, were best friends, probably because they grew up together. It was hysterical as Hell to watch this 110 pound dog try to use the litter box.

Techically, a 'mongrel' is a cat, and 'mutt' refers to dogs.

(This moment of nitpicky syntax nazi-ism is brought to you by the letters D, F, J and the number 5.)

One without lymphoma would be nice. :(

What are people's thoughts on putting dogs down, by the way? At this point there is nothing much we can do. We have her on steroids that keep her symptoms down and her appetite up and we're feeding her cancer-starving foods. But that just slows it down, and it's a question of dumb luck now on when it will be time to do the deed, as it were.

I am very undecided on how to approach it. A part of me says I should go with her to the vet and be around, another says that I probably can't bear it. So how would you choose?

I have what I think is a mini-flat coated retriever (got her at a shelter, so I can't really be sure). She has a great personality, is very affectionate, and intelligent, though at times she can be kind of an attention whore. Great dog though.

all dogs are attention whores to some extent. i think that's what most people who prefer dogs want them for. which is why i like cats. but dogs can be sweet too.

what i really wish, is that people had sense enough, that we could be allowed to keep less common creatures, which might actually help with several things, one of which being the overpopulation of dogs and cats, along with humans and the problems all three are causing.

but i do understand, most other creatures require more then good wishes and affection toward them, and most arn't as social to begin with.

and people who raise any animal to attack other humans or other animals of its own species or some other, personally i feel there's something wrong in the head with people who do that.

=^^=
.../\...

I'm a cat-lover, but if I ever had to accept a dog in my house - assuming I'd get a garden, and that's not very likely - , it would be a Border Collie, a German Shepherd, a Terranova or a Golden Retriever. Or any acceptable mix.

Lost your Chihuahua? Try looking under my tyres.

I want an Irish wolfhound, cos they're giants among dogs, and they're usually really friendly.

This. Any child would love a dog that they can ride around like a horse. :)

No dogs ever. Only cats. Dogs are disgusting and stupid.

One without lymphoma would be nice. :(

What are people's thoughts on putting dogs down, by the way? At this point there is nothing much we can do. We have her on steroids that keep her symptoms down and her appetite up and we're feeding her cancer-starving foods. But that just slows it down, and it's a question of dumb luck now on when it will be time to do the deed, as it were.

I am very undecided on how to approach it. A part of me says I should go with her to the vet and be around, another says that I probably can't bear it. So how would you choose?

My cat, Bonnie, developed chronic renal failure. When I realized that she wasn't going to have a decent quality of life, I decided to have her put to sleep. My daughter and I sat with her and cuddled and petted her while the vet gave her the shot. It was hard, but I felt I had to do it.

My son's dog, Morgan, has a terminal brain tumor. She's on steroids. I'ts, as you say, a matter of luck and time. My son feels that he won't be able to be with her, that it will be too much for him.

I think someone should be there. The animal is a family member and trusts you; you're being there will help reduce her stress and anxiety. If it's truly too much for you, ask a family member or friend who knows the animal well to stand in. The important thing is that the end be as peaceful as possible.

I don't think badly of people who can't do this, it's not a weakness, it's just a difference in how one is able to deal with certain things. And, really, it's how you took care of her in life that ultimately counts.

Yeah. Even worse are Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

Agreed (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13590227&postcount=36).

all dogs are attention whores to some extent. i think that's what most people who prefer dogs want them for. which is why i like cats. but dogs can be sweet too.

what i really wish, is that people had sense enough, that we could be allowed to keep less common creatures, which might actually help with several things, one of which being the overpopulation of dogs and cats, along with humans and the problems all three are causing.

but i do understand, most other creatures require more then good wishes and affection toward them, and most arn't as social to begin with.

and people who raise any animal to attack other humans or other animals of its own species or some other, personally i feel there's something wrong in the head with people who do that.

=^^=
.../\...

When you consider that dogs shed the insularity of wolfness in a bargain for survival, you get behavior that seems like attention whoring, but is in fact the natural social state of the dog. The average dog likes to be "alpha'd", or led in a social structure, and since they can't speak, they require at least some attention to remind them of their security in the "pack". That's why many dogs will freak out and get destructive when left alone too long.

Cats usually have no such need, and I like cats fine, but I'm a confirmed dog person.

No dogs ever. Only cats. Dogs are disgusting and stupid.

Can I ask why you'd prefer to express your preference in such negative terms instead of just announcing your liking for cats? Dogs are only as disgusting and stupid as their owners allow them to be.

My cat, Bonnie, developed chronic renal failure. When I realized that she wasn't going to have a decent quality of life, I decided to have her put to sleep. My daughter and I sat with her and cuddled and petted her while the vet gave her the shot. It was hard, but I felt I had to do it.

My son's dog, Morgan, has a terminal brain tumor. She's on steroids. I'ts, as you say, a matter of luck and time. My son feels that he won't be able to be with her, that it will be too much for him.

I think someone should be there. The animal is a family member and trusts you; you're being there will help reduce her stress and anxiety. If it's truly too much for you, ask a family member or friend who knows the animal well to stand in. The important thing is that the end be as peaceful as possible.

I don't think badly of people who can't do this, it's not a weakness, it's just a difference in how one is able to deal with certain things. And, really, it's how you took care of her in life that ultimately counts.

Amen and St. Francis/St. Roch bless you. When my Hannah dies (see earlier posts for pictures), I'll be a wreck, but I'll console myself with all the great time I got to spend with her instead of dwelling on her last moments.

I like Border Collies - ultra smart, affectionate, playful & beautiful looking dogs. They need a lot of excercise though & get bored easily if they're stuck all day in the back yard. They have a great herding instinct too. We used to have one when I was younger & when we'd go for a walk, or to the beach, etc, she'd always make sure no-one got left behind. If someone was lagging behind, she'd run back to them & try & get them to hurry up. She was a great dog.

I want an Alaskan Malamute (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Alaska_Malamut_Huendin.JPG).

Currently I have a border collie (http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/6828/sam2hl2.jpg), and my boyfriend has a Norwegian Elkhound (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Norwegian_Elkhound.jpg).

One without lymphoma would be nice. :(

What are people's thoughts on putting dogs down, by the way? At this point there is nothing much we can do. We have her on steroids that keep her symptoms down and her appetite up and we're feeding her cancer-starving foods. But that just slows it down, and it's a question of dumb luck now on when it will be time to do the deed, as it were.

I am very undecided on how to approach it. A part of me says I should go with her to the vet and be around, another says that I probably can't bear it. So how would you choose?

When it gets to the point that the animal is really suffering - when they are no longer enjoying life at all, I think it is time to have them put down. A dog doesn't understand what is happening from a medical sense, and there is no reason to allow them to continue suffering just to make us feel better.

If either of my dogs had to be put down, I think I'd want to be there. It would be devastating for me, but I think letting them go in a more impersonal manner would be worse.

I still regret not being around when my last childhood dog was put down. She had kidney failure which was treatable for a while with a special diet. But when they put her on the diet, they made it clear that it was only a matter of time before it would worsen and there would be nothing more they could do. I was off at college when that day came and my mother had to take her in. It was devastating, and my parents haven't had a dog since, but it was the right thing to do.

I like beagles. They're very smart. People just take them as stupid because it's a challenge to train them. But I like that challenge too.

Pugs. Pugz are teh awesomeness. They look incredibly cute, although my mother thinks they're ugly. WHICH THEY AREN'T!
http://photos.hugpug.com/

I advise a Bigtopian Tricerebus.

German Shepherds are good dogs, but purebred dogs from popular breeds tend to have health issues like hip displasia. I'd say some kind of German Shepherd/ Husky cross.

Get a cat for the apartment. Not a kitten, but an adult cat from a shelter.

The perfect dog for me is a pug. In fact, I have two.

Sure, they fart, they snore, they take up over half the bed despite standing only two feet tall and weighing 20 pounds. They have a sense of entitlement that would astound Paris Hilton. They beg for food, get under your feet, and did I mention they fart? Constantly. Usually they grin at you while they're doing it.

But....they're pugs, and I love them, so I'm stuck.