Haven't read the whole thread, but I've had 4 different pit-bulls in my time. You hear so much bad about them, but they are great dogs. They are definitely not for everyone though.

 

I'd recommend having had at least two other dogs, and at least one "large" or "bully" breed before getting one though. I'd also STRONGLY recommend having a vet and/or a professional trainer help you along at the start (i.e., some socialization classes at a place like PetsMart, lots of trips (and the associated tips) from a veterinarian, etc.). Teaching them not to pull on the leash, etc. as puppies is vital considering how big and powerful they'll be. At the end of the day, they are huge babies IF you raise them right though.

 

For reference, I'd had a cocker spaniel, boxer, and adopted doberman/shepard mix before any of the pits. They are tough to train at times and will try your patience, but are probably my favorite breed.

Haven't read the whole thread, but I've had 4 different pit-bulls in my time. You hear so much bad about them, but they are great dogs. They are definitely not for everyone though.

 

I'd recommend having had at least two other dogs, and at least one "large" or "bully" breed before getting one though. I'd also STRONGLY recommend having a vet and/or a professional trainer help you along at the start (i.e., some socialization classes at a place like PetsMart, lots of trips (and the associated tips) from a veterinarian, etc.). Teaching them not to pull on the leash, etc. as puppies is vital considering how big and powerful they'll be. At the end of the day, they are huge babies IF you raise them right though.

 

For reference, I'd had a cocker spaniel, boxer, and adopted doberman/shepard mix before any of the pits. They are tough to train at times and will try your patience, but are probably my favorite breed.

 

I have worked with a lot of Pit Bulls, and they are powerful dogs, but just dogs. If raised and managed reasonably well as all powerful breeds should be, they are as good as it gets. I fostered one earlier this year as she had mainge and was put on the euth. list at our shelter. She stayed with us for six weeks until she recovered, and she was absolutely the sweetest, full-of-personality dog one could have imagined. Now, she is the apple of her owner's eye.

100 Years of Breed "Improvement" | Science of Dogs

 

Pretty interesting article on the damage done to dog breeds over the course of the last 100 years. Compares photos of standard bred dog breeds taken from a book called "Breeds Of All Nations", published in 1915, and then puts them up against photos of modern dogs of the same breeds after 100 years of breeding to those standards.

I have a Pitbull and she's one of the best dogs I've ever had. It's pretty funny to watch my girlfriends Pomeranian chase her around the house!

I have worked with a lot of Pit Bulls, and they are powerful dogs, but just dogs. If raised and managed reasonably well as all powerful breeds should be, they are as good as it gets. I fostered one earlier this year as she had mainge and was put on the euth. list at our shelter. She stayed with us for six weeks until she recovered, and she was absolutely the sweetest, full-of-personality dog one could have imagined. Now, she is the apple of her owner's eye.

 

I'll add to this post. While I was fostering this dog (her name was Summer), I ran with her and my other dogs everymorning so she would get exercise and training. Also, every chance I got, I would introduce her to other dogs and people. However, it was interesting how many people were terrified of her and would not come near her because of what she looked like (a Pit). What is clear to me is that there are many people who are afraid of dogs, and that fear and uncertainty triggers a like response out of most dogs. It's too bad.

 

There was a nice lady in the neighborhood I lived in who I met with her two young daughters while I was walking two of my labs. She told me she had been attached by a friends dog when she was a child, and she was very afraid of dogs. I clearly understood that. However, it was clear she passed that fear on to her children. Fear of a dog makes one prey.

Teddy Bear dogs. Anybody ever heard of them?

Teddy Bear dogs. Anybody ever heard of them?

 

I've seen a few. Mix of Bichon,Poodle,ShiTzu.

I've seen a few. Mix of Bichon,Poodle,ShiTzu.

What do you think? I have read that they have a nice temperament and not a loud bark.

What do you think? I have read that they have a nice temperament and not a loud bark.

You will typically always have less problems (genetic wise) with a mixed breed. This is a pretty good mixture. But, check the shelters before buying a mix breed from a breeder.

Still toying with this dog idea. I know it's a big step. But if we are going to do it, we need to do it sooner than later.

 

I have always preferred a medium to large dog, smooth hair type.

But I know we HAVE to get one with these requirements:

--hypoallergenic

--not a barky loud dog, as it will drive one of my kids crazy.

--kid friendly, one who will be a good companion to the kids

--small to medium sized

 

I have one kid who I think will really benefit from having a dog around. The unconditional acceptance of a pooch will help his confidence. Having some dog "responsibilities" will give him a purpose.

This child does not like loud noises, and is already afraid of being bitten.

 

Suggestions on breeds and where to find them? Thanks!