[iapaca11]

I have trained my large (80lbs) Lab mix as well as a West Highland Terrier who only listens to me (no leash needed unless there’s a law). I moved out of my house and into the city and have no time for the Westie (who i regard as my dog) so he lives at home and I just take him to my place for a week or two at a time. I am currently looking at dogs for purchase next year when I am out of school and have time. I will have a job so I will be working during the day but I have roommates in school to help out.

I love my small dog but am looking to get something larger (medium to large) because I will be purchasing the dog and I want something that suites my fairly active lifestyle. I have been looking all over the internet and reading about different dogs. Price is of no concern because I really want to pick the perfect dog for me. I have been looking at some guard/watch dogs although some are a concern because some may have such strong personalities. I’m a very confident person and do clearly show a leadership role within my house, but I do not want a dog that is going to have negative tendencies towards everyone that comes in the house (unless they are breaking in).

I love to go hiking but since I live near the city it only happens on weekends. I do go on runs 3 or more times a week which the dog would accompany me on and live near a park where the dog could go every day. I also ride my bike a lot in the summer at least 3 times a week. I do not want a dog that will need a long run every day because I cannot promise couple mile run every day.

I saw an American Staffordshire Terrier in person (having seen the breed online) and had a talk with the owner about it, he was with his three small daughters. It was a beautiful dog and I did some more reading and it seemed like a dog that may fit my needs. I also go camping a lot in Maine and love the fact that my dogs love to please me and stay around me wherever I go. I love to take my dog hiking and bring my dog over people’s houses as well and basically bring him wherever I can. I am really looking for some suggestions on a strong dog that can protect me and my house but is also fits my lifestyle and will get along with my other dogs (I am not specifically thinking of a guard/watch dog, just like some of them).

Although I like watch and guard dogs, I would like any suggestions on some breeds of dogs that any of you think are good for my needs because I do not really have any discriminations/restrictions. I do want to have a dog that is protective of me and my house though, not a dog that will greet someone breaking into my house like its my best friend. I have been thinking about this for a while and I really want to make sure I know the exact breed for me so that I can start to contact breeders within the next couple of months in order to set something up for anywhere from 6 months to a year and 6 moths. It’s a huge commitment but I’m just trying to get educated now so that I’m fully confident in my decision. I appreciate any input.

-I also am currently waiting to get volunteering hrs. at my local shelter so I could just end up getting a dog there. I just want to keep my options open and know some good choices for my lifestyle.

[cigwyllt]

Isn't exciting to be planning for a new dog. I reckon that if you are volunteering in the shelter you will meet your perfect dog that way. You are looking more for character than looks or anything else so you are open minded to anything. Working in a shelter you will be perfectly placed to see all sorts of breeds and mixes and I am sure that you will fall in love and all your plans/thoughts will fly out the window! Hope you stay around and keep us updated on your search.