Best big dog breed for me?

[Luv_them_doggies]

Hi I am looking for a friendly big dog. So I am wondering which breed is best for me?? I am looking for a breed that loves to swim, play fetch, and go to the dog park to play with other dogs. I also want a good companion dog.
Any ideas?

 

[joce]

A lab maybe. They are big and friendly and most get along with other dogs ok!
They often love to swim and I know many that absolutely love fetch!

 

[shadowolf]

You should go to your local shelter and see if there are any smaller dogs that need a home. You aren't really narrowing down the options, so it's hard to say which breed is best...However, if you aren't going to go to obedience classes, I wouldn't reccomend a terrier -- they can be stubborn, and they need lots of socialization..Go to www.dogbreedinfo.com to see a huge list of breeds.

Here are some more questions that might help narrow down your search...

-Do you mind a breed known for digging and/or barking?
-Do you want to dog to get along well with other dogs, cats, or small animals?
-Do you want an obedient dog that will always follow your commands?
-Do you want a breed that will do well in dog sports (agility, flyball, etc)?
-Do you want a watchdog?
-Is the dog going to be spending most of it's time indoors or outdoors?
-Would you mind having a breed known for health problems?
-Would you pay for professional grooming?

 

[bubbatd]

Golden Retriever !!!! Fills every bill !

 

[Renee750il]

Check out the shelters! There's a very good chance there's a dog that's just perfect there.

 

[BigDog2191]

Sounds to me like you might like a Weimaraner.

 

[scout1]

goldens and labs sound like they would fit what you would like in a dog. there are lots of them in shelters and rescues. i would try there first. good luck to you =)

 

[Amstaffer]

Check out the shelters! There's a very good chance there's a dog that's just perfect there.

Best advice! Renee is right on here.

Also look for a Newfoundland mix while you are at the shelter....They fit everything you are asking for.

 

[Ash47]

Lab or Golden. And where I live, there are always at least 3 or 4 in each shelter. Labs require lots and lots of exercise and can be overly hyper. But you sound like you have a good exercise regimen worked out though. Whatever dog you decide on, be it pure or mix, you should go to AKC.org and look at the description of the breed(s) of the dog you are choosing. That way, you will have a better idea of what you are getting yourself into. I have a Lab*Chow mix and she definetely got the Lab personality with the Chow looks. It's fun with a mix, cuz you never know what's gonna come out!

 

[gaddylovesdogs]

Yep, check out your local shelter. You could find your dream dog there---I find one of mine at a local shelter . You also have to consider how much time you can spend with the dog. And do you mind shedding? How muche exercise can you give the dog? How much can you spend on food every month? How much on vet bills every month?

 

[bubbatd]

Check out ElinHunter's reply under the Golden Retriever or Lab thread ! LOL!

 

[showpug]

Flat coated retriever! I like dogs that are less popular though.

 

[Luv_them_doggies]

what about a husky??? I love those dogs!

 

[Luv_them_doggies]

I saw a husky I absolutely love at the shelter. Would a husky be good for me???

http://www.petfinder.com/pet.cgi?ac...706-app5&display=&preview=1&row=0&tmpl=&stat=

 

[Doberluv]

From what you describe, my mind goes to Labrador too...or Golden Retriever or if you want really big, Newfoundland. They're all wonderful dogs and love to swim and retrieve.

 

[Babyblue5290]

what about a husky??? I love those dogs!

From my expereince husky's don't really like the water as much as a lab would. Some just hate it and some aren't good with other dogs (especially ones of the same sex). So they might not be a good fit for you.
Plus if you got one be ready for the TONS of shedding they do and the digging. But it does depend largely on the individual dog. I saw the husky in the link and it's beautiful, but doesn't say anything about how it reacts to other dogs. But it's really pretty and sounds like a great dog!

 

[Luv_them_doggies]

what is this I hear about huskies being notorious for jumping fences???
MY neighbors dog is pure husky and she never jumps the fence. Even though she easily could.

 

[greatdane girl]

HI there,
Great danes are also great if youve never considered one. They are the most affectionate dog, love to be with there owners and thrive with a family enviroment. Are great with kids, placid, and just downright loveable.
They love to swim, have a short coat so not much grooming involved.
Some people comment that my danes must eat heaps, but infact they dont, they eas as much as a gsd etc etc, with my danes i feed them 2 small meals a day to prevent bloat. Chicken necks & lamb flaps are fed at lunch times as a treat & snack for my boys.
Danes are definatly woth considering, and if you would like some more info please just give me a holler, id be more than happy to help

 

[showpug]

Have to agree...love danes. Mine was the best and he loved water