Before I start let me say that I do intend to adopt a dog rather than purchase one from a breeder. Always have, and most likely always will. I am
not looking for a dog to make me look like a tough guy (or douchebag depending on your view) but rather a companion I can trust to protect me and my
home. I grew up with dogs, always took them through obedience school and have trained some wonderful companions. I have owned a few mutts and one
pitbull with varying degrees of training difficulty/aggressiveness (pitbull being the sweetest and calmest in EVERY situation).
I want a dog that I can do various things with. I would like to try a few things after basic obedience including Flyball, Agility etc. I own my own
home with a large fenced backyard and my insurance does not have a breed restriction (and I have a 5 million dollar umbrella policy).
The following is a list of breeds I am interested in with my own opinions. I want yours too!
1.) Doberman.
Pros: Highly intelligent, extremely loyal, very protective, aloof around strangers, clingy (pro for me), intimidating, goofy personality, athletic
Cons: Health issues, intimidating, somewhat dog aggressive (I like the dog park)
2.) Belgian Malinois.
Pros: Highly intelligent, easy size to handle, extremely loyal, protective, clingy, helped catch Bin Laden, athletic
Cons: Sheds ALOT, dog aggression, a little too high strung, not as powerful as other breeds, does not look intimidating, always 'on'
3.) Rottweiller.
Pros: Big, good with family and children, intimidating, strong, intimidating (needs repeating)
Cons: Not as intelligent, have bad history with the breed, big to the point of pain in the butt
4.) German Shepard.
Pros: Highly intelligent, loyal, protective, athletic
Cons: Shedding, dog aggression, human aggression, I've never met one I liked, not as intimidating as a Doberman or Rottweiller, health issues, I think
most are ugly
The reason I left out pitbulls is that I don't think of them as being good guard dogs. Every one I've known has been so friendly they would welcome
an intruder with wagging tail. My experience anyway.
I'm leaning towards a Doberman. From what I've read and the ones I've known they are incredibly protective and aware of their surroundings. I've
heard numerous stories about Dobermans that check every room in the house when they get home from a walk. They tend to never leave the owners side.
The personality is such that when sitting on the couch they can actually relax (unlike the Malinois) and I actually think they are gorgeous dogs
(unlike the Shepard no offense I know tons of people love them). I also enjoy their goofball nature (only have seen this when the breed is at home
with trusted people). The only thing really keeping me from making the decision is the health issues, and that it is hard to find one at a shelter.
The breed has also been a little watered down in the US compared to Europe from my research.
What do you guys think? Have I left any out? Have you had different experiences?
I feel I need to clarify that I don't want a lab, a border collie or anything not geared more towards a protection breed. If I wanted just a plain
old dog I'd already have a pound mutt. I want a breed that's 'sharp' and more geared towards guarding/protection work. I do appreciate all the
replies though!
edit on 2-11-2011 by Domo1 because: (no reason given)