[sokar2sokar]

please help me choosing the right breed for me and my family ...
first of all i love the alaskan malamute since i was young . but now i have to choose carefully because i have married and got a 3 years old boy .
secound i need a very very calm dog which do not like to bark .

should i have a ...
1 - rottweiler .
2 - german shepherd .
3 - alaskan malamute .
4 - great dane .
5 - bullmastiff .

i have read a lot a bout dogs .
but i need a clear answer from people got real experience with theses breeds .

notes :
i live in a nice apartment .
i need a dog to run with and a long daily walk also .
a big dog to protect me and my family .
i need a smart and gentle dog with my family .
and the most thing i need is a calm dog .

[DoggiesAndStuff]

First advice is do NOT purchase a dog. There are plenty of dogs waiting in shelters for a forever family. With that said, the dogs you mentioned should never live in an apartment setting. These dogs require yards to run and play in. I would recommend you visit your closest animals shelter and look at dogs that are available there. I would also check out local rescue shelters or better yet, petfinder.com to see dogs available in your area that are in need of a home. There are plenty of mixed breeds that can offer all of the things you are looking for. Be patient if you do not see one right away.

Originally Posted by sokar2sokar

please help me choosing the right breed for me and my family ...
first of all i love the alaskan malamute since i was young . but now i have to choose carefully because i have married and got a 3 years old boy .
secound i need a very very calm dog which do not like to bark .

should i have a ...
1 - rottweiler .
2 - german shepherd .
3 - alaskan malamute .
4 - great dane .
5 - bullmastiff .

i have read a lot a bout dogs .
but i need a clear answer from people got real experience with theses breeds .

notes :
i live in a nice apartment .
i need a dog to run with and a long daily walk also .
a big dog to protect me and my family .
i need a smart and gentle dog with my family .
and the most thing i need is a calm dog .

[cigwyllt]

To start with - there is no such thing as a calm puppy - so as Doggies and Stuff suggests you would do better to rehome a young adult from a shelter or pound. I don't know a lot about the breeds you have shown an interest in other than the odd individual I've met over the years but the calmest dog I have ever known was the golden retriever we rescued when my son was 2 years old. She was very obedient and eager to please.

One thing does concern me - the fact that you want a dog to protect you and your family. You should never put that responsibility on a dog. You are the pack leader, you are the one who is responsible for keeping everyone safe. You could train your dog to "speak" or bark which can be quite intimidating. My retriever would "speak" on command and of course anyone standing on the other side of the door would only hear this deep bellowing bark - they would have no idea that the dog making the noise was the softest most gentle dog you could imagine. She would never act aggressively but she certainly made me feel safe!

[Yogi]

sorry, but you are contradicting yourself. You say you do not want a dog that barks but at the same time you want one that will protect you. Generally watch dogs will bark so you really cannot have it both ways. As for the breeds, none will suffice with regards to calm let alone being around a 3 year old. These are big dogs all with on average, fairly high levels of energy. The odds are that the child will spend most of its time getting knocked down. The other issue is that none of these are in anyway appropriate dogs for apartment living. These are dogs that require a fairly large secured area to free roam.
Why don't you search the net for dogs that do well in apartments than individually search the breeds that best fit being with family, children and the other issues you are concerned with. Than check the local shelters to find one that is a young adult as noted by the others. Puppies in general are far to active and definitely far from calm.

[CorkyMax]

A good site to help you in a search:Dog Breed Info Center®, DBI Just click on All Breeds at top of page.

[Todd]

I agree. If you want a calmer dog I'd recommend rescuing a dog who is already a few years old from your local animal shelter.

As far as living in an apartment goes, I'd have to respectfully disagree with some of what Yogi said. As long as you are providing the dog with plenty of exercise of a daily basis, I see no reason why the dog wouldn't do fine in an apartment.

You also want a dog to run and go on long walks with. This would mean you'd want a higher energy dog who enjoys plenty of exercise, however since you don't necessarily want a dog with too much energy it may be best to select a dog with a moderate energy level rather than a dog with a high energy level.

You also want a big dog who will protect you and your family. You may be looking for somewhat of a guard dog, however (as Yogi said before) a guard dog may bark a bit for this is one of the ways of him protecting the family. There are dog that bark more than other although.

You also want a smart/gentle dog for the family, so I'd assume you'd want a dog who is good with kids.

Once again you state that you want a calm dog. A naturally really really calm dog isn't going to want to go on your long runs and walks, so I'd suggest getting a dog with not low or high, but rather a moderate energy level. With adequate exercise the dog will be calm anyhow.

Here are some breeds that fit into your requirements fairly well;

German Shepherd: This dog has a moderate energy level and should be very calm if provided with adequate exercise. This breed is also a well known guard dog who will do an exceptional job at protecting you and your family. This may include some barking, however these dogs really don't bark that much, at least from what I've noticed. This breed also does fairly well with children and is a smart/loving family dog.

Great Danes And Mastiffs are pretty calm dogs and fit all your other requirements, however they have rather low energy levels and may not be up for as much exercise as you may have planned.

Rottweiler: This dog also has a moderate energy level and should be very calm if provided with adequate exercise. Much like the Shepherd, this breed is also a well known guard dog who will do an exceptional job at protecting you and your family. As far as barking goes, I'd say they're neutral. Probably not enough to drive you insane or anything though My Aunt has this breed of dog and it seems to do pretty well with children as well.

Alaskan Malamute: May not be the best dog for your particular situation, despite your passion for the breed. The have a very high energy level and need A LOT of exercise. Probably even more than you're thinking of doing considering you have a 3 year old child to take care of as well. They were bred as Alaskan sled dogs and their natural instinct is to pull, so regular exercise may not be sufficient! They are NOT good guard dogs at all They are very loving and much more independent than other breeds. Here's their description I found online;

Malamutes were originally bred to think and act independently for the sake of protecting the sled team. Hazardous and unpredictable Arctic trail conditions rewarded the ability of a Malamute to rely on its own senses and, when necessary, override the sled driver's judgment and commands. As such, the breed is notorious for displaying a highly independent streak that manifests itself as stubbornness. Malamutes are sometimes downright insubordinate toward their human handlers and may ignore commands, particularly when young.

At the same time, Arctic life required that Malamutes be bred to behave as consummate members of the sled team, family, and village community. Therefore they are usually very affectionate to members of their own pack - human and dog members alike. A Malamute may talk in glee in greeting a returning family or pack member after a period of separation, and howl in protest when it feels ignored, neglected, or excluded from group activities. Also, Malamutes are usually friendly to other humans outside their own pack, often demanding their attention and affection as well. The Malamute's gregariousness and tendency to openly, unreservedly give affection make them highly attractive to many dog owners; these same qualities make a Malamute a poor guard dog.

The harsh conditions for which Malamutes were bred rewarded a strong prey drive, as food was occasionally scarce. Consequently, Malamutes may instinctively attack animals such as house cats, squirrels, rabbits, chickens, quail, and even deer (however, many households enjoy harmonious, mixed "packs" of cats and Malamutes). Historic competition for food is also a reason why Malamutes may regard dogs outside their own pack or team with disdain or hostility.

Probably not the best dog for you.

There are also plenty of other breeds out there for you, but the ones that pop out at me from the list you provided are the German Shepherd and the Rottweiler. Mastiff and Great Dane would be alright also, however they may not be up for as much vigorous exercise.

[Lunareclipse]

Get a Saint Bernard. They don't bark. They protect you by laying in front of the door so an intruder can't open it. They are great at holding the couch down and cleaning up any food you drop on the floor. They love being with their people. They most certainly are not outdoor dogs, unless you, yourself lives outdoors also. Also, a dog's job is not to protect you, but your job to protect it. Would you have your 3 year old protect you? If a dog is not going to become part of your family and a big baby then don't get a dog. A true dog person would take a bullet to save his dog, and not expect it to the other way around.

[Lara's mom]

All the dogs you're suggesting are awfully big for apartment living. I'd look for a smaller breed and certainly not a puppy if having a calm dog is important to you.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lara's mom

All the dogs you're suggesting are awfully big for apartment living. I'd look for a smaller breed and certainly not a puppy if having a calm dog is important to you.

The dogs would prob. do OK in an apt. as long as she follows through with the daily long walks/runs she plans on doing.

[Yogi]

The problem here is that though these breeds have the capability to "acclimate" to living in apartments, they are not recommended for them primarily due to their size and exercise requirements. Unfortunately it is like telling people how to train their kids to handle dogs. They all say they will do it but it only takes one occasion where they fail to and things go wrong. People though creatures of habit have days where they are ill or just do not feel like taking a dog that is in need of exercise out for a walk. This then can create a problem in small spaces for such a large breed. Whether moderate energy level or high, dogs need free roam space off lead especially when they are young and still developing. Failing to comply and stay on schedule where you do not have a secure yard to just let the dog out to play, you are forced into having to walk the dog whether you want to or not. Many just will take the easy route and say I will do it tomorrow. Doing this also (and I have seen this) can create a dog that is unruly no matter how much emphasis you put on controlling it. A large breed is no different than a small one if not allowed enough exercise though with a small breed, it can in many cased get enough exercise running around an apt where a large breed, there just is not enough room. The dog ends up cooped and more prone to bark when left alone. It is fine if the dog is older or in senior years but as a puppy, the energy level of all these is high until they get to be 3 to 5 years of age. Again, any dog can pretty much acclimate itself to apartment living with the right owners but most are better off living where there is a secured yard for them to run off lead daily to expel the energy built up whether high or moderate. Most apartment complexes do not offer this. Also, most apartment complexes have weight limits on dog so to keep them small breed only. I have a feeling based on the wording of the OP, they do not live in the states so we cannot tell for sure if they have even looked into the rules for their apartment. We could be giving her information only to find out that she got one of the dogs and found out late that she cannot keep it, then what.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Yogi

The problem here is that though these breeds have the capability to "acclimate" to living in apartments, they are not recommended for them primarily due to their size and exercise requirements. Unfortunately it is like telling people how to train their kids to handle dogs. They all say they will do it but it only takes one occasion where they fail to and things go wrong. People though creatures of habit have days where they are ill or just do not feel like taking a dog that is in need of exercise out for a walk. This then can create a problem in small spaces for such a large breed. Whether moderate energy level or high, dogs need free roam space off lead especially when they are young and still developing. Failing to comply and stay on schedule where you do not have a secure yard to just let the dog out to play, you are forced into having to walk the dog whether you want to or not. Many just will take the easy route and say I will do it tomorrow. Doing this also (and I have seen this) can create a dog that is unruly no matter how much emphasis you put on controlling it. A large breed is no different than a small one if not allowed enough exercise though with a small breed, it can in many cased get enough exercise running around an apt where a large breed, there just is not enough room. The dog ends up cooped and more prone to bark when left alone. It is fine if the dog is older or in senior years but as a puppy, the energy level of all these is high until they get to be 3 to 5 years of age. Again, any dog can pretty much acclimate itself to apartment living with the right owners but most are better off living where there is a secured yard for them to run off lead daily to expel the energy built up whether high or moderate. Most apartment complexes do not offer this. Also, most apartment complexes have weight limits on dog so to keep them small breed only. I have a feeling based on the wording of the OP, they do not live in the states so we cannot tell for sure if they have even looked into the rules for their apartment. We could be giving her information only to find out that she got one of the dogs and found out late that she cannot keep it, then what.

You do make a good point about many apartments not having fenced yards or anything, however if she is sure she can make to commitment to give him plenty of exercise every day it would be fine. Make sure you are 100% positive about the commitment though. Think about this long term. You will have this dog for at least 10 years so make sure you are willing to follow through.

[Yogi]

That is not the only problem. Most apartments do not allow dogs over a certain weight limit. Generally 20lbs. So what happens if she takes someones advice that it is ok to get one of these dogs and then gets back and is told she either has to give up the dog or vacate? There is more here than we see and she has not provided us with this as of yet. In addition, I am concerned regarding the wording and spelling of the OP. Something does not seem correct. We do not know where she is located but I can tell you that in North America, apartments are generally very picky regarding size and in those cases where they are not, in most cases, Rots are not permitted. The same with Dobes and Pit Bulls. For the same lame reason.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Yogi

That is not the only problem. Most apartments do not allow dogs over a certain weight limit. Generally 20lbs. So what happens if she takes someones advice that it is ok to get one of these dogs and then gets back and is told she either has to give up the dog or vacate? There is more here than we see and she has not provided us with this as of yet. In addition, I am concerned regarding the wording and spelling of the OP. Something does not seem correct. We do not know where she is located but I can tell you that in North America, apartments are generally very picky regarding size and in those cases where they are not, in most cases, Rots are not permitted. The same with Dobes and Pit Bulls. For the same lame reason.

You're right. I never though of that. yea, I'd def. check with the landlord b4 going any further.

[cigwyllt]

Another thing to remember of course is that some of the very large breeds have comparatively short life spans. Take a Great Dane for instance - to guard against damage to the bones and joints it is important not to over exercise the dog in the first 18 months or so then but the time it is 7 or so it is elderly. Leaving a comparatively short time when the dog is active and needing exercise.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by cigwyllt

Another thing to remember of course is that some of the very large breeds have comparatively short life spans. Take a Great Dane for instance - to guard against damage to the bones and joints it is important not to over exercise the dog in the first 18 months or so then but the time it is 7 or so it is elderly. Leaving a comparatively short time when the dog is active and needing exercise.

My neighbors over exercise their labrador pup. It's about 6 months old or so. They let it run at the park/walk for like 2-2.5 hours a day. What kind of bone issues can this really cause later in life?

[Lunareclipse]

Greyhounds are great calm dogs inside the house and like going for runs outside. Talk to your local greyhound rescue and see if what they have. Or your shelter. Most are great with kids, but check first to make sure.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Lunareclipse

Greyhounds are great calm dogs inside the house and like going for runs outside. Talk to your local greyhound rescue and see if what they have. Or your shelter. Most are great with kids, but check first to make sure.

Oh yea. Greyhounds would be a good choice too. I've heard they are in great demand of homes too once they are retired from racing.

[Yogi]

They are without a doubt the biggest couch potatoes you will find.....Excellent large breed apartment dogs. Generally very quiet and reserved and love to have a place to lay around all day and actually require far less exercise than most realize.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Yogi

They are without a doubt the biggest couch potatoes you will find.....Excellent large breed apartment dogs. Generally very quiet and reserved and love to have a place to lay around all day and actually require far less exercise than most realize.

Yea. I've heard they are good for short bursts of energy but lazy dogs otherwise, so this may or may not be the dog for you because you wanted a dog to jog/take on long walks.

[Lara's mom]

Also, rescuing a greyhound would mean that one less dog who is "no longer useful" will finally have the loving home that he/she deserves.