[vineheart01]

Hello all! I am a 21 year old single guy living in Sutter, California. Usually i am a cat owner, but i recently lost both of my cats. I wanted a dog this time so i'd have something to get me to go jogging since my job requires me to stay fit (Military).
Currently i am about to deploy, when i get back i wanted to get a dog but i dont know what i should get. I dont like large dogs like Great Danes and i hate yappers.

I live in a small town with a lot of free space and little traffic. I have plenty of space to run in. My yard isnt very large, probably 25by25 and fenced in.

I was thinking of getting something of the Foxhound type cuz i like their elegant stance and fur coat. Not sure if thats a wise idea tho cuz theyre hunting dogs, im not a hunter heh.

I'm open to ideas. Ty for any response

[woofah]

I don't think a Foxhound is suitable really. There are a hunting dog and they are a pack hound with centuries of history and breeding to have those traits. It's not a singular soul. A foxhound would be a very unhappy little dog by himself.

A Beagle is along the hound lines and requires a very well fenced yard. This page has information on the Beagle showing the small regard they hold for fences. Beagle, Dog Breeds, puppies, dog training, dog store

The Beagle is also a pack hound and requires canine or human companionship but seems to be able to adjust as long as he lives inside with his human pack.

Do your research properly and whatever dog you get will give you a ton of joy.

[Lara's mom]

Jack Russell's will see to it that you get plenty of exercise!

[CorkyMax]

Gosh, I didn't see this post before and evidently got missed by others too as you posted a week ago! Hope you come back for our replies! I was thinking beagle too but even better--How about a Vizsla--My son has one and it sounds like the type you'd want. Would write more about this breed but just a few brief sentences as I am pressed for time right now! I am getting this info from a book I have on breeds. Handsome, lean, well-muscled dog that moves gracefully either at a lively trotting gait or in a swift, ground -covering gallop. The coat is short and close, rusty gold to sandy yellow in color and slick to the touch. Easy to groom. Energetic dog with enormous stamina. NEEDS PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITY TO RUN, PREFERABLY OFF THE LEASH, AND A LOT OF REGULAR EXERCISE. If these dogs are allowed to get bored, they can become destructive. Although good natured, intelligent and easy to train, the Vizsla is somewhat sensitive and needs to be handled gently. It is reliable with children and quickly adapts to family life. Be aware--Great jumpers and, if bored, will escape from a yard that does not have a sufficiently high fence.
PET FACTS: intelligent, affectionate, willing-----reg. vigorous exercise----
Adapts to urban living, but needs plenty of space----Good watchdog
Male: 22 to 26" (height from shoulder down) and 45 to 60#
Female: 20 to 24" and 40 to 55#

[cigwyllt]

I'm with Lara'smum - Jack Russells are the best. They have the character and intelligence of a large dog in a pocket sized body. They love exercise and are very loyal, devoted companions but can be family pets as well.

[pinsnpugs]

Also research and consider a Rhodesian Ridgeback, wonderful animals and will be a good running mate.

[millsandbones]

You might also want to consider getting a Beagle. It is a small to medium-sized dog and has resemblance to foxhound. (Beagle - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

[SplinterX]

How about a Boxer?

[Petunia]

Oooooo, SplinterX has a good point. How about a Boxer? Boxer's are GREAT family dogs, so when you find the "right" person, you'll have a dog that can get along with them and maybe the future little ones. Of course I have met Boxers that are one-person dogs. But these guys are often poorly socialized. Make sure to socialize whatever dog you get. Once they are spayed/neutered parks and beaches will be great for socializing your furry-kid with other people and dogs.

Or maybe a Corgi? Corgis are smaller, but they are cattle herders and are rough and tough as nails. They need exercise, and a task. They'll keep you fit.

Just avoid pet stores, and if you go the breeder route, check learntobreed.com. They have a check list to help you figure out whether you're dealing with a good breeder or not.

There are many rescues that have millions of dogs looking for homes. Just make sure you do breed research on whatever dog you think about getting (even your run-o-the mill Heinz 57 mutts)

I have a Boxer/Lab/Spaniel mix. He's got the happy puppy-go-lucky lab/boxer attitude, with the persistent nature of a spaniel. He's got hunter, and retriever in him, so I have to keep him on a task for his play time.

Good luck, and hope you log back in to check out the posts.