Dog Community

Help me, trying to decid on a breed for family

Posted : 7/4/2006 12:21:57 PM

My cousins are thinking about adding a dog to their family.

They recently had their house broken into and would like one for protection.

BUT, they have 5 kids, well, the oldest is 18, in college, but still there. The others are 15, 12, 10 and 7. So, they would need a kid friendly dog that could deal with a lot of commotion.

The first breed I thought of was a lab. But, I'm thinking the only exercise would be running around the property which is a good size. But, not enough activity for a lab I'd think. The good thing will be that the dog will probably rarely be alone and they will play with him. It just won't be a huge amount of long distance type walking or running.

Can anyone make any suggestions?? They were thinking a schnauzer but I thought that might be a little too small with all the kids and then for protection too. What do you think??

Edited--They would also need a breed that an allergic person could have because my cousin (the mom) is allergic.

Ashley

Posted : 7/4/2006 12:35:31 PM

Standard or Giant Schnauzer then maybe?

gradyupmybutt

Posted : 7/4/2006 12:46:19 PM

A Black Standard Poodle maybe?

sillysally

Posted : 7/4/2006 12:52:41 PM

Kerry Blue Terrier?

Margaret Tyler

Posted : 7/4/2006 1:03:27 PM

ORIGINAL: gradyupmybutt

A Black Standard Poodle maybe?

I agree! I know an excellent standard poodle breeder, specifacally black and cream. Her dogs are great around children, but bark like they're going to attack.

grab01

Posted : 7/4/2006 2:57:36 PM

Any barking dog will be a deterrent, no matter the size. A poodle is an excellent choice, but from what I hear, the standards require quite a bit of exercise. Perhaps a mini? I'd also suggest that no matter what breed they choose, they spend some time with members of that breed, just to make sure it doesn't bother her allergies

Terri

Posted : 7/4/2006 3:17:12 PM

Norwegian Elkhounds are a great family dog. I was raised by them and have 2 myself now. They are very loyal and protective. They bark when there's anyone on their property. People are generally scared of them because "they look like wolves." (don't ask me)

I exercise my boys quite a bit, but I've seen Elkhounds do fine with much less activity. But they are a bit independent and stubborn. I'm just partial to the breed, so I thought I'd throw my two cents in. [

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Terri

Posted : 7/4/2006 3:18:25 PM

Oh, I just read the allergy part of your post. Elkhounds shed alot, so might not be a good fit. Again I just love the breed, so I had to share.

glenmar

Posted : 7/4/2006 4:18:28 PM

A poodle isn't going to LOOK very intimidating, but the bark will scare off most. But, they DO know that a protection dog requires massive amounts of training?? Or are they just wanting the dog as more of a deterrent?

jones

Posted : 7/4/2006 4:41:03 PM

I hate to be a killjoy, but I don't think this is the best reason for getting a dog... they're shaken up by having their house broken into, but a dog is a huge commitment and basically a new member of the family. At the very least, now is not the right time to make such a big decision. Perhaps they should opt for a little counseling instead, or form a community watch group, and rethink the dog idea later.

willowchow

Posted : 7/4/2006 7:01:02 PM

Well, one reason is as a deterrent to break in's but they are also considering all the angles of this too. They know it's a big deal. And, the kids have wanted one forever but now they have this extra reason that wasn't there before. Don't know if that makes any sense. The police actually told them they should get a dog when they came to make the report. I thought, how odd??

Glenda---They don't want a police dog, just some barking if someone tries to get in or comes around.