I am considering getting a new puppy. Any breed suggestions?

Question

First, I want a breed that is very good with children especially toddlers, gets along with other dogs and cats. Second, I am considering a large or extra large breed. Finally, I want a breed that is protective, NOT AGGRESSIVE. I have been considering a mastiff breed or a German Shepherd. I have heard that boxers are also good, but the one that I have been around were too hyper. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Answer 1

I urge you to consider going to a shelter to obtain a dog. You'll be doing a good deed and rescuing a do that most likely through not fault of its own ended up there.

Most dogs are in shelters because they grew out of the cute litle puppy stage and became actual adult dogs or have exercise needs that the previous owners couldn't understand or deal with. That said, most reputable shelters have good staff people that can assist you - just pose this specific question. Lastly, most shelters have lots of purebreds come through. And it's not because they're defective, it's for the reasons above. However, there are lots of great mixed breed dogs out there! I'm the proud parent of two of them myself.

dogbreedinfo.com has some good info for breed research and petfinders.com is a good place to start for shelters for your area and even breed specific rescue groups (an alternative to a shelter). Owning a dog is a commitment. The large breed dogs are generally very good with kids. Great Danes are good if you want a very large dog and don't actually require a huge amount of exercise.

I grew up with German Shepherds, and am very partial to them, but I caution you - THEY ARE NOT THE BREED FOR EVERYONE. They really need a firm handler and an understanding of their character. Ours were great with me and my brothers, but they do tend to be a one-person dog.

Basically, do lots of breed research based on not only your desires, but what you can commit to in a dog in terms of exercise, cost, medication and vet care - some breeds are more prone to certain issues, illnesses than others. Don't be afraid to visit some local shelters too for tips.

Best of luck to you!

Answer 2

It is so funny that everyone says "definitely a ____ is everything you are looking for."

I have a book called "The Right Dog For You" which was extremely helpful for me. It has quizzes that help you figure out what you need in a dog and choose a breed with those characteristics. The AKC website can also provide a lot of information. Do keep in mind your local shelter. Though the dogs might be mutts, the workers there will be able to tell you a lot about the personality of each animal.

If you do go to a breeder, avoid a puppy mill. Puppy mills breed any two animals together irresponsibly without regard to temperament. As a result, you get characteristics that were never intended for the breed (such as aggression towards humans in pit bulls!) German Shepherds, unfortunately, have been bred extensively in puppy mill conditions, not to mention that they have been bred specifically to be guard and police dogs, so make sure you research your breeder thoroughly and meet the parents of the puppy if you decide to get one.

Answer 3

well, I have had two Labrador Retrievers, and both of them were/are large, protective, and very good around kids/cats/other dogs. I've never had a German Shepherd but I've heard they're really good too. Boxers- I have not had good experiences with. Also, I've had some good experience with Golden Retrievers, which aren't quite as protective, but pretty good other than that. Of course, I wasn't in any situation where they could have really stood up for me, either. Overall, Labs are my favorite! But I'm biased... so don't base your opinion off any one answer on here because everyone will be biased toward their own particular favorite breed of dog. Good luck!!!!!

Answer 4

Every one here is going to tell the breed of dog they have is the best dog for kids, well a lot of them are wrong. You need to research the many different breeds and make an educated decision on what you think is the best breed for you and your families lifesyle. AKC has a web site with descriptions of all recognized breeds of dog. AKC.org You could also read a few books like Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, or Idiots Guide to Chosing, Buying and Raising a Dog.

If properly trained and embraced as a beloved member of the family, any breed can make a great pet. With that said, some dogs are seen as more “kid-friendly” than others and, as a result, have become extremely popular among families. According to the AKC, the five most popular breeds in the United States are:

Labrador Retrievers are by far America’s most popular dog—more than 140,000 Lab puppies were registered last year with the AKC—and have a reputation for being playful, hardworking and affectionate toward children. The Lab is easily trained and is highly respected for his prowess at many jobs: as a guide dog for the disabled, a search-and-rescue dog, and for narcotics detection.

Golden Retrievers are sporty, easy to train and strong, but their most outstanding trait is character. They are outgoing and devoted companions to people of all ages, happy and trusting. They make great hunting companions, too.

German Shepherd are noble in appearence and character. This breed's courage, steadfast heart, and keen senses have endeared him to families for generations. Active and outdoorsy, German Shepherds are very fond of children and make wonderful companions.

Beagles love being around people and other animals. They are gentle, happy companions who thrive on affection and attention. They are also clever, quick, and, most of all curious. They need plenty of active exercise.

Dachshund has a lively, upbeat personality—spunky, curious and friendly. Originally bred to hunt badgers, Dachshund’s love to dig, romp and run. They are affectionate, especially with children, and enjoy going for walks and other forms of exercise

You should do your research before you bring any animal into your home. A lot of small breeds are not good for very young kids (and a lot of experts recommend that you wait until your youngest child is 4 to 5 to get a dog) but if you get a dog never leave dog and children alone unattended. A dog your is a responsiblity for the rest of its life and should not be bought on impulse.

Answer 5

I would suggest a Labrador retriever because they're fun and great around kids, but watch out for the hyper ones. I agree with German Shepard's too. Also the wiemeraner. The problem is, they tend to be extremely clingy. I've got one though and she's very sweet. Another good idea would be going to Pet Rescue and find exactly the dog you're looking for! Just tell them what you want and they'll find some good ones for you. It's also great knowing that you saved a dog. (Also I recommend getting what ever dog you choose trained!)

Answer 6

PLEASE consider adopting a dog from your local shelter. Some of these poor dogs have been found on the street, and will be put to sleep without a chance with a loving home. Also, don't assume that a puppy is right for your lifestyle. Puppies sometimes have issues when they grow up, so getting a middle aged or older dog will make him more low-key, which seems like what you are looking for. All healthy puppies are hyper. Good luck!

Answer 7

Shepherds can be temperament, but are also very intelligent and take very well to training. They are exceptionally loyal and their aggression often comes from aggressive style training rather than natural temperament. I've never encountered a shepherd, when properly trained and treated, that was anything but good tempered. I suspect that they rank high as biters because too often they are trained, like Dobermans and Rottweilers, to be aggressive and/or vicious by unscrupulous owners who glory in the guard dog image of the breeds. And my shepherd loves my cat, for what that's worth.

Answer 8

If you truly want an extra large breed, try the Bernese Mountain Dog. They are wonderful companions and great with families. My favourite breed is a smaller one, the Manchester Terrier. They have all the energy of a Jack Russell but are ready to lay back and take it easy when you are and they love people.

Answer 9

Research, research, research first!

You've mentioned qualities that are desirable & dogs that you're considering, but do the qualities & the dogs align themselves into exactly what you want?

You must research via Internet, local bookstore, or highly-respected breeder of every kind of breed imaginable because if you pick the wrong one you may find yourself with a dangerous dog, a overzealous & energetic dog, or even something such as excessive drooling, shedding, or some inbred obsessive/compulsive habit, etc.

When you do your research please make sure that the WORDS influence your choice & NOT the pretty, cute, adorable pictures that you'll be viewing.

Stay focused & stay committed to the qualities that you want & be observant of the qualities that you hadn't realized existed & are not desirable to your family.

Answer 10

The breed for you is Irish Wolfhound, which is the breed of kings. The Irish Wolfhound is very gentle with his family and also with strangers in the presence of a relaxed master. But if the dog senses danger it is relentless in its effort to protect it's family. Irish Wolfhounds have been known to bring down bulls, and kill after having been shot. Both mastiffs and German Shepherds have been known to turn on their masters. Irish Wolfhounds do not. Their only drawback is that they cannot be passed around. They have been known to grieve themselves to death at the loss of their family. It is the largest breed and they eat a lot but they are wonderful. When you take them out for a walk, it's like walking a small pony. I had one and my daughter use to ride on its back.