Reg: 06-07-2007
Posts: 3
Loc: Grand Rapids, MI USA
Offline
2 years ago I rescued a Lab/Pit mix. I have been happy with her; but she is small and not an intimadating dog. I have always wanted a dog that could detour troublemakers without incident.
I am still not sure what breed would be good for my situation. I want either a GSD or a Doberman. My sister and mother both have Boxers and are incouriging me to get one myself.
I personaly am not impressed with their dogs. I know that most of it is that they don't teach pack structure or anything else for that matter.
My goal is to learn shutzhund. The dog I have now I don't belive is big enough for the sport at 35lbs and certenly would not qualify being a mixed breed.
If anyone could give me advise in what dog might be right for me in my household situation it would be greatly appriciated.
If you are new to working dogs and dog sports I would say start by finding a club and trainer in your area. That way you can see what it takes to have a dog like that and get some good advice from club members and a local trainer on what to look for. Also, since those will be the folks you train with you want to make sure you find a group you like.
As to looking at a breed, that again will depend on what you want to achieve. Best start again at a club and see what are most represented, although from my limited experience it seems to be Mals and GSDs in the overwhelming majority.
Best of luck, take time and do research. It pays off in the end!
Leah
Caveat: I am not involved with Schutzhund personally, but I wish I had the resources to be! This is the path I would take were I in your position. As usual, people with better information feel free to correct me.
I would recommend getting a male dog if you already have a female in the house.
Someone with more knowledge than me can give you better adivce on the kind of dog that can "detour troublemakers without incident." (Personally I see that as my job as pack leader.)
"Properly trained, a man can be dog's best friend." ~Corey Ford
Everyone I've talked to suggests a GSD for a first-time schutzhund dog based on the fact that it's just easier to find a good working GSD puppy than any other breed.
That said, if you're up for the challenge or know of people who can help you find a dog, another breed like a Mal or Dutchie could be doable.
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