My hubby, Jim, has always wanted a big dog. So we've been researching breeds that will fit into our lifestyle. Since we just got our new little girl, Tee Tee Mouse, we're not looking to get another dog for at least 1 year because we want to give Tia and Codie enough time to bond. We also want to have Tia spayed and up to date on all shots before we bring home a new family member.
But since I am a planner, I'd like to pick out a breed so that I have a game plan in mind when the times comes.
Here are 2 breeds that I absolutely LOVE:
Schipperke http://www.akc.org/breeds/schipperke/index.cfm Shiba Inu http://www.akc.org/breeds/shiba_inu/index.cfm
The only problem is that Jim and I both have pretty bad allergies. We need a dog that does not have a thick double coat. So more than likely these 2 beautiful dogs are not an option for us.
I'm so bummed because these 2 breeds are so beautiful and sweet. But I can't get a dog only because it's beautiful -- I have to get a dog that fits into my lifestlye and that includes health.
The other breeds that we're looking into are:
Boxer http://www.akc.org/breeds/boxer/index.cfm Brittany http://www.akc.org/breeds/brittany/index.cfm Bulldog http://www.akc.org/breeds/bulldog/index.cfm Labrador Retriever http://www.akc.org/breeds/labrador_retriever/index.cfm Rottweiler http://www.akc.org/breeds/rottweiler/index.cfm
My hubby and I are considering adopting a dog from a rescue group or a shelter. My hubby keeps saying that he wants to save a homeless dog. So we're going to look into breed specific rescues as well as mixed breed dogs in shelters. The only problem I have with adopting a shelter dog is that I worry if the dog was abused and will one day take that out on my 2 precious babies and try to hurt them. Some may think my concerns are silly but I MUST put my 2 pooches best interest first. I will never put their health and happiness at risk for my own selfish reasons.
Can you guys give me some advice about each specific breed and how they would get along with a male Maltese and a female Yorkie? I know each dog is different but I'd like some general info about these breeds. I've read some info on-line but it's always better (in my opinion) to hear about the breeds from actual people who have owned them. Are these breeds gentle with smaller dogs? Are they friendly and mild or are they aggressive and known to attack others (dogs as well as people)? Any other info or advice you may have is greatly appreciated.
Also, anyone who has adopted a dog (large or small) from a shelter or rescue group, please tell me about your experience. Was the dog overly aggressive? Did it ever attack you? If you had other dogs in your house, did the shelter dog ever attack your other dog(s)? Please remember to mention to breed or mix of breeds that the dog was.
I'm also open to suggestions of other dog breeds to adopt -- just keep in mind that Jim and I both have allergies, so we need a dog who does not shed a lot. Thanks in advance everyone!