What breed of dog do we need for our situation?

[Hailey]

Chernoff, try: http://www.akc.org/

My first thought was the Bernese mountain dog, I know quite a few farmers that have this breed, and it sounds like it may be what your looking for.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/bernese_mountain_dog/history.cfm

 

[YorkieLover]

We too have hardwood floors and 4 dogs, have no scratching from the dogs, only from furniture being moved carelessly....

 

[hanslynch]

Breed Recommendation

If the hardwood floors are real you will have little problems with the dogs inside. Pergo on the other hadn will get torn up pretty quick.

As far as the breed you are looking for, a lot of the working class dogs will work which has been stated by a lot of different people. One breed that has not been mentioned I think is the Rhodiesan Rhidgeback. They fit the bill perfectly, the only thing is they do not like to played with roughly by children.

- Hans
link edited out

 

[Shannerson]

Hi there, glad to see you are researching breeds that best fit your lifestyle and needs--good job.
A border collie would be nice or even a collie. Also Labrador or Golden Retriever comes to mind. BUT...most dogs thrive on human attention and should be a part of your household, not relegated to the outdoors all the time. That would be sad.
My border collie/samoyed mix would fit your family to a "T". I wish I could clone him. Good luck.

 

[Spirit2010]

Yes, dogs tend to do better with their families, in the house, it is easier to train them, and they will naturally protect your home. Best of luck!

 

[Schnauzer Dude]

For you a german shepard, and a standard schnauzer. Schnauzers would probably be the best, my dog for example would qualify for all those things. One time magpies would tease her until oneday she killed one by sheer luck but she wouldn'have chance up against a deer.

Schnauzer Dude