what breed is right for me???

Question

I am 13 years old. I really want a dog. We are a really active family. don't tell me i'm to young to have a dog because i am very responsible and my parents have agreed to let me have one if i do research and think about what breed is best for me. I am looking for a very energetic and active dog one that would be good at frisbee and agility. I would also like a running partner. Medium- large in size. i also probably couldn't get a very fancy breed because i am against puppy mills and back yard breeders so we would probably get the dog from the pound or a local rescue. I am just looking for a nice family dog that i can cuddle up with on the couch or go outside and play with. this dog would also have to be good with other dogs and just an all around nice breed. thank you very much. give me lots of suggestions.

Answer 1

most of the dogs at shelters and pounds are mixed breeds, in other words Mutts.
but Mutts are the best dogs. They are often the most active, and studies have shown that they are much smarter than pure bred dogs.
when you go to the shelter they will allow you to play w/ the dog, and you can also see how he reacts to other dogs there.
Based on what you have said you want in a dog, I'd say a mutt is the best for you!! Go to the pound, look around, play w/ some of the dogs, and see which one plays frisbee, runs along w/ you, cuddles, and gets along with other dogs the best!!
Congrats on your new pet and your decision to go to an animal shelter!!!
More people should be as responsible as you!!!

But if you have to go for a breed, I'd suggest a
lab,
retriever,
american foxhound,
Husky,
pointer,
setter,
terrier,
shepard
or even a beagle....
Based on what you want in a pet.

Answer 2

It sounds like a lab or retrevier would be a great dog for you. Pitbulls are also wonderful dogs. Incredibly loyal and loving, friendly and energetic. We have a three year old male pit and a year old Italian Mastiff. Mastiffs are typically more "lazy" but right now he is full of pep! Anyway though, I think adopting from a local shelter is wonderful. I have had many dogs from shelters. Usually, you are going to find a Heinz 57 there (a mutt) but there is NOTHING wrong with a mutt. I've had many mutts and you just have to watch what breeds the dog is made of. But I really think you need some sort or retreiver or lab, pure or a mix. My mom's dog Chase was a golden-collie mix and she lived a long healthy happy life. Best of luck to you in your search for the perfect dog. I hope you enjoy your new family memeber.

Answer 3

puppy mills and backyard breeders are not the same.....puppy mills are where they keep dogs in cages, filth and infestations run rampant....backyard breeders are prob the result of an accident, so usually the puppies are handled much more than a regular "breeder" who sells puppies for mega money....if you go to the pound or rescue, you prob won't have a choice. You'll fall in love with a dog regardelss of the breed, but if you want a playful smaller dog, I'd suggest a jack russell....my first thought was golden ret. but they are big and very energetic and hard to cuddle.....good luck ps. you are more than old enough to take care of a dog, don't let anyone tell you otherwise!

Answer 4

You DO sound responsible! I'm just thrilled you know about and are against the puppymills and backyard breeders. I wish you the best of luck finding the perfect dog for you. :)

You're looking for large, active, athletic, and easy to rescue... Look into:

Labs -- My top pick for anyone with an active lifestyle. They're the most common/popular dog out there for a reason. They're fun-loving, eager to please, gentle, and they get along with everyone and everything. The ones I've known are just as happy to lounge on the couch (though it has to be WITH you, which in lab language often means on TOP of you) as they are outside running with you for hours at a time. Because they are large, shed like bears, and do need plenty of exercise, (and irresponsible people get them without knowing what they're getting into,) there are plenty of really good labs in rescue so you'll plenty to pick from.

Goldens -- Golden afficionados will take offense at this probably, but to me Goldens are just labs with longer hair. And just as perfect. If you don't mind hair everywhere, and a childlike propensity for making messes. And there are just as many wonderful goldens in rescue as there are labs.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks -- I have to include them because they are my favorite breed, and you sound like you'd be a great owner for a ridgeback IF you're willing to train consistently and be a strong leader. Ridgebacks are smart, extremely loyal, couch potatoes indoors and nonstop athletes outdoors, and I'm addicted for life! They aren't easy dogs though if you don't have an easy time being the Boss.

Weimeraners -- Like ridgebacks, if you have a strong personality and are willing to do plenty of obedience work, this a breed you can get addicted to. They're headstrong and assertive, but loyal, and love to be with you all the time. Unlike ridgebacks, they don't slow down when they're indoors. They get bored easily and can be destructive when bored, so it would help if there's someone home all the time or at least if you have a large, secure yard that the dog can go out to through a doggie door or something.

There are also lots of great mixes in rescue that are hard to adopt out because they're large and energetic and most people aren't able to deal with them.

Answer 5

No one actually likes the thought of puppy mills, but just because you have an actual breed doesn't mean its been illegally bred. Also, going to a shelter does not prevent obtaining a dog bred in this way.

That being said, looking into dogs in the working, hunting and sporting groups. If you are unsure what breeds qualify, check out any kennel club website, I like the American Kennel Club's website myself, easy to use and good info. www.akc.org

There are other factors to consider; intelligence, trainablity, guarding, barking, shedding and maintenance for starters.

If you really want a dog from a shelter, forget about setting your sights on a breed, you're not being realistic.

Answer 6

adopt a greyhound from a rescue centre. They take a while to get used to there new environment, kind of like puppies, but when you get a dog that is part of the fun. It gives you time to adjust to it also, like a growing experience for both of you. Greyhounds are killed all the time when they become 3 or 4 years old because they can not race competitively anymore. It is a sad but very real problem. If you are looking for a running partner and a loyal pet I can not think of a better dog. Look at www.adopt-a-greyhound.com or www.adopt-a-greyhound.org and other sights for more info.

Answer 7

go to your local shelter and look at the dogs in there and you may fine the right one. the more pure bred the dogthe more it will cost but at the shelter it will be affordable. and if you just take your time, some time you get this feeling and you know it's right or the dog will pick you, that is even better. to have one to do the things you want it to do, goes with training them. they most of the time are not train to do tricks and all dogs love to run. l want you to get the best dog there is and you will love it, so go to your shelter and breed really isn't the problem. but try to stay away from aggressive breeds ,do your research and good luck.

Answer 8

Go to the AKC website. They list breeds with pictures and short generalizations for each one. This was the first step I took before I decided on my dog. Don't dismiss pure breed dogs if the breeder can supply you with it's pedigree. When you buy from a good breeder you know exactly what you're in for. Buying a rescue is noble, but who knows what kind of people and experiences they've had before you came along. Also, make sure you read about puppy problems too before you dive in. Puppys get worms, get dirty, eat everything and puke in the car. It's not all hugs and kisses but it's definitely worth it.

Answer 9

Sounds like you want a golden retriever. Try looking that the shelter first though because, there are a lot of nice dogs that need a good home and you might be the one to provide that for the right dog. They have a large selection. Hope this helps and that you love your dog as much as I love mine. They become family to you.

Answer 10

I'm going to say the Boxer as well. There are a lot of Boxer rescue organizations where you could find one that really needs a good home. They are so loving, energetic, loyal, and just flat out fun to be around! They are also low maitenance in the grooming department, which is one responsibility you need to consider. Good work on doing so much research!