Greetings,
I'm planning on purchasing a dog very soon. My wife and I have plenty of time and energy to handle a dog, and would like to have one around. I leave for business every couple of weeks for a few days at a time, and would like a medium or large dog with guard instincts to be home with my wife while I'm away. I do 2 major hiking trips every year that I would like a dog to come with on. Also I do short hikes almost every weekend, as well as very short (slower) jogs every morning. Getting exercise for the dog wont be a problem. That being said, I don't want a dog that will be high energy in the house. Lastly, I would like a dog that doesn't shed an incredible amount (german shep, husky, etc.).

The dogs that I've found that seem to fit the description are
1) Rottweiler
2) Cane Corso
3) Giant Schnauzer

I've done a fair amount of research on these dogs, and they all appeal to me in their own way.
- The Rottweiler is aloof indoors normally, great guard instincts, but sheds more than the others...
- The Cane Corso is athletic and guard instincts, doesnt shed much, and no doggie smell (not a big deal)..
- The giant schnauzer is athletic, low shedding, and decent guard instincts.

Please give me your suggestions or thoughts on this. I REALLY appreciate any help I can get.

i prefer rottweiler though

All of the breeds mentioned can be difficult if not well socialized and trained properly. Have you owned dogs before? How much experience do you have with handling large, bull headed dogs? Because all of these breeds can be wonderful dogs, but they can also be strong willed and stubborn. They are a lot of dog, and can be too much for someone who isn't confident and experienced in handling strong minded dogs.

Also, the Standard Schnauzer, while not being a high shedding breed, will require a great deal of grooming if you don't want the dog to turn into a walking mat. Brushing and combing at home is a must, and they should be stripped or clipped professionally on a regular basis. And that beard can become a sopping, stinky mess if you aren't careful to keep it clean and free of mats. If you don't like the idea of a dog that gets a big drink of water and wipes his chin on your pant leg, a Standard Schnauzer might not be the dog for you.

Another breed you might consider, that makes a wonderful companion, but might be a little easier to handle, would be a well bred Airedale. They do require regular grooming, but are low shedding and if properly groomed, don't have that full beard. They're loyal and protective, but also have a great sense of humor, and can learn to do just about anything you'd want a dog to do. I groom a lot of Airedales, and they're all intelligent and pretty easy to handle. But I still wouldn't make one of them mad. After all, they are terriers, and they have HUGE teeth!

I second Vetgroomers Airedale idea!! Other breed's to consider would be a Bullmastiff or a Great Dane. (My mother has a scottish deerhound that while not a guard dog... it's sheer size is enought to make people not come near her!!)

It's also important to consider whether your wife can handle the dog when you aren't home. While you may be prepared to handle a strong breed, is your wife?

Another breed to consider is the Rhodesian Ridgeback. But, again, you would need to consider your wife's ability to handle the dog in your absence.

Have you considered a border collie? Gentle in nature but still protective as well as athletic.

I'd also suggest considering a border collie. My Dad is just as active as you are and says everytime he goes camping/cross country skiing, the main dog breed that he sees is a Border Collie and a lab. The BC is the smartest dog breed you can get, is extremely athletic and need a lot of exercise. It is my fave breed though...probably why my pup is a border collie mix. I hope that helps!!