Before I got Quinn I was so sure I was going to get a GSD. I had been in contact with the breeder for probably 4 or 5 years beforehand and was absolutely set on getting one of her dogs this time around. I had already inquired about a female puppy she had, even. Then I started reading up on English Shepherds and they reminded me so much of my childhood Aussies. My mom really liked the sound of them, too. The only breeder in the province had a litter planned and we ended up putting our name down as we didn't want to lose the spot. I was still unconvinced at this time - there was so much variety in the breed and I was seeing dogs I wasn't particularly fond of on the internet and youtube that were making me second guess my decision. Two things happened in particular - I found a breeder with amazing dogs, one bitch in particular who was my absolute dream dog that made me go "THAT'S the kind of dog I want". I was also able to meet Quinn's aunt, who, while it wasn't a big lightbulb moment like the previous, I really liked and it was nice talking to her owner about her. We were given the news that someone had backed out and there was an open spot for Quinn's litter and we were next in line so we put a deposit down on a puppy, which was still a bit of a leap of faith, and not long after we met Quinn's breeders, Quinn's mom and granddam, and the litter for the first time at 6 weeks old.
I'm not really sure what the point is I'm trying to get across - maybe just that I went through a similar thing! I was familiar with and set on a GSD for years prior - English Shepherds were that new breed that sounded great but I'd never met or heard of before. I took a leap of faith by going with Quinn vs. that GSD puppy. I wouldn't change anything even if I could and now I know that at this point in my life, I'm more suited for ESs than GSDs. However, if I had gone the opposite way I'm sure I would still be thrilled with and loving my dog. I still love GSDs and would love to own another. Either way, you will love the dog you end up with!
I'm not really sure what the point is I'm trying to get across - maybe just that I went through a similar thing! I was familiar with and set on a GSD for years prior - English Shepherds were that new breed that sounded great but I'd never met or heard of before. I took a leap of faith by going with Quinn vs. that GSD puppy. I wouldn't change anything even if I could and now I know that at this point in my life, I'm more suited for ESs than GSDs. However, if I had gone the opposite way I'm sure I would still be thrilled with and loving my dog. I still love GSDs and would love to own another. Either way, you will love the dog you end up with!