orangedog
Posted : 11/19/2010 11:39:27 PM
1. Which breed is your "heart" breed? Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. There are other breeds I'm currently researching for when I want another dog of my own, but Tollers will always hold a permanent special place for me. I adore them, and hope to always have one around.
2. Conformation or Working? I believe that all dogs should be able to do what they were originally meant to do, and I like to see working ability still present in any breed I'm interested in. But I also strongly believe in conformation. I like a good balanced mix of both conformation and working ability.
3. Small breeds or larger breeds? I tend to prefer medium-large dogs (between 30-7lbs), but there are dogs and breeds smaller and larger that I like as well.
4. Male or Female? Generally I prefer females for their smaller size, less coat and more independent nature, but either works for me. As long as the dog's temperament is well suited to me, I couldn't really care less about gender. Although, the male dogs I've had have been super licky... which is a trait I really don't like. But that could just be the two boys I've had, and not male dogs inparticular.
5. On leash or off leash? Being able to walk a dog off leash is wonderful, but I'm fine with having an unreliable dog when it comes to being off leash as well. It's no big deal to me if I can't take it for off leash walks. There are always long lines too, to give an unreliable dog slightly more freedom.
6. Working breeds or "pet" breeds? Not sure how to answer that. My dogs are first and foremost my pets, but I do tend to prefer working breeds over breeds bred simply for companionship. My dogs are pets, but I enjoy doing different activities with them... not necessarily the ones they were specifically bred for, though.
7. Long coat or short coat? Anything, although I do prefer a medium to long double coat usually. Especially where I live. It can sometimes be frustrating when it's so cold to have smooth coated dogs like the Dobermans, who can't go outside for as long as normal (and don't want to go outside). I also would take longer hair floating around my house any day over short, prickly hairs that get stuck in everything.
8. Fetch or long nap? Active, but not bouncing off the walls energetic. I like a dog who is relaxed around the house, but is ready to go do something at a moment's notice.
9. Family member or beloved pet? Family member. Treated like the animals they are, though. I try not to humanize my dogs, as much as I think of them as just as much a family member as the humans in my life are.
10. Dry kibble or canned food? Kibble.