The Perfect Breed for me?

[dignitarium]

I think I have chosen the kind of dog I would like next. But I am uncertain with myself and wonder if it maybe isn't the best match, so I thought I would post here and see what suggestions you have. Best case scenario you suggest the dog I am looking at, worst case scenario I have some new breeds to research, so its a win/win.

First, about me:
- I am an extremely active outdoorsy person, looking for a running/hiking/activity partner plus a dog to do disc dog/tricks/maybe agility with. I can provide 1-2 hours of exercise a day, a lot more on weekends.
- I do work 8am - 3pm.
- I do live in an apartment (where dogs are allowed).

Things I am looking for in my next dog:
- Medium sized, but less than 50pounds (per apartment rules)
- Biddable, eager to please
- Medium to high energy with an off-switch. I am looking for a dog who is always ready to go when I am ready to go, but can chill/cuddle too.
- Handler oriented (can be friendly with strangers or aloof, but I don't want a dog to ditch me for their new never-met-before best friend. Velcro is awesome)
- Not too barky (alarm barking is ok, but I don't like incessant barking or barking-to-hear-my-own-voice)
- Loves to play, play, play, especially chasing a ball/frisbee or tug
- Not too much prey drive (needs so not obsess over my cockatiel in her cage)

That's basically it. What do you think?

 

[SarahHound]

Well that sounds similar to what I'm looking for, and I've chosen a Cocker Spaniel

 

[Aleron]

Maybe a Mini Aussie?

 

[Brattina88]

Well that sounds similar to what I'm looking for, and I've chosen a Cocker Spaniel

This. lol

 

[Flyinsbt]

Probably a Border Collie, maybe an adult rescue so you can make sure of getting one with an off switch.

 

[milos_mommy]

Lots of adult/young adult mixes fit that bill in rescue, especially a medium sized herding or sporting type mix.

American Eskimo came to mind, as did a poodle although I don't know how you feel about grooming, or some terriers, but they do tend to have some prey drive. Breeds like border terriers, some westies, and Norfolk terriers can have a lower prey drive, so the right breeder or an evaluated adult rescue dog might work for you

 

[Jynx]

I was going to suggest a mini aussie as well.

I have two aussies, both 21", and age is 13 & 12. The show no signs of slowing down.

Diane

 

[milos_mommy]

Oops - I didn't see your requirement for a high play/toy drive. Some of the breeds I mentioned definitely won't have the same play drive as most aussies or BCs.

Brittany or Springer Spaniel might also be a good choice!

 

[dignitarium]

Thank you for the suggestions.

I have been wanting to get a border collie, and I am happy to see that mentioned at least once. The only thing I am worried about is the fact that I live in an apartment. Would this be a huge problem?

I am not a big fan of cocker spaniels, at least the ones I have met.

What are Springer Spaniels and Brittanys like? I have read about them, and like the way they look, but I have never met one in person, unlike border collies which I have.
How do they differ from border collies? How are they the same?

 

[Flyinsbt]

Thank you for the suggestions.

I have been wanting to get a border collie, and I am happy to see that mentioned at least once. The only thing I am worried about is the fact that I live in an apartment. Would this be a huge problem?

I am not a big fan of cocker spaniels, at least the ones I have met.

What are Springer Spaniels and Brittanys like? I have read about them, and like the way they look, but I have never met one in person, unlike border collies which I have.
How do they differ from border collies? How are they the same?

Any dog can live in an apartment, if you're willing to give it the necessary exercise. You describe yourself as active, so that should be possible.

Springers and Brittanys are spaniels, they have spaniel temperament. They're quite different from BCs.