What breed would be best for me?

[UCLA Girl]

Hi,

Im UCLA Girl and new to the forum. I currently don't have a dog but am considering on getting one perhaps this summer or fall. I like dogs of all sizes especially the big breeds Great Danes etc.. but since Im small (5'0) a smaller to mid size would be good size for me. I like Shelties, Labs, Greyhounds, Australian Sheps but have never owned one. I have so many questions. Should I buy from a breeder or a shelter, should it be a puppy or an older dog? I have an idea of what I would like, mid size, trainable, active, and good tempered. Any ideas?

 

[CaliTerp07]

You probably want to share a little more about your situation. What's your schedule like? How active are you? How much time are you willing to put into training/exercising a dog? What's your living situation (if you're renting, you will want to look into size restrictions in apartments in your area)

Don't let your size keep you from getting a dog you like. There is a girl at my dog park who can't be over 5'0 who has a HUGE lab. He'd be much taller than her if he stood up on his hind legs. However, he's beautifully trained and she handles him quite well.

 

[Zoom]

Training can accomplish a lot as far as "handleability"...I'm 5'1" myself and my next dog is going to be of the Mastiff variety. :rofl1:

Your initial description sounds like either a Lab or an Aussie might fit, but we do need some more info. Where are you going to be living? What's your schedule like? How often do you plan on going out for a good hard walk/run/hike/swim.

 

[Renee750il]

For a first timer, I'd suggest you start by looking at rescues that have dogs in foster situattions. They'll be able to help match you to one whose temperament and personality most suit you. Don't be put off if the first rescues you contact get snotty. Some of them get kind of caught up in thinking that there is no home good enough. Just move on to another one

 

[FluffyZooCrew]

I second everything Renee said, and also wanted to add that you can check out local pounds as wel. They are overrum with medium sized mixes (and purebreds) from all walks of life, and every background. There's tons of labs sitting in pounds as well. And unlike some rescues, most pounds will adopt to anyone that's 18 and has a pulse.

 

[UCLA Girl]

Lots of ideas, ok here is a little about me. I live in a condo so I dont have a back yard and my front yard is a more like a porch so there wont be much running space. I'd like to have an inside dog rather then outside. Where I live my HOA (home owners association) only allows inside dogs (I think) which is perfect for me because he/she will be inside.

I live a very active lifestyle. I like to go for runs/walks on the beach. Im am willing to put in hrs for training and excerising. I like to swim so a breed that likes to swim would be ideal. Puppy school will be a must, I think that is very important.

My schedule permits me to be able to spend time training and excersing. I do have school and a job but when Im not at home my boyfriend will be there to help. He is also more then willing to help me as well.

I will look into the local shelters here like you suggested that sounds like a good idea.

 

[Maxy24]

Does your condo have breed restrictions?

 

[UCLA Girl]

Does your condo have breed restrictions?

No I dont think so. There is a pitbull that lives a few doors down.

 

[Laurelin]

Double check that. There was a pit bull that lived down the hall from me and wasn't allowed. There was also a collie and a bulldog and all three owners ended up having to get rid of their dogs for not following rules.

Better to be safe, imo.

 

[smkie]

HOw long are you gone each day?

I Find www.petfinder to be the best place to start looking if your willing to rescue.

 

[Dayaxaron]

what kind of dog

Hi,

If you really like the giant dogs, go for it girl, your size does not matter. Besides some of the giants are a lot calmer and easier to handle then the little breads.

If you want to go for the big ones, check out the Irish Wolfhounds, they are the biggest and most gentle dogs you can get.

I was 24, living on my own and starting up my business when i got my first Irish. She was a lot taller then me when standing up, but she gave me the most relaxed times in my life.

For more info, you can go to Dog Talk Home or contact me at [email protected]

Good luck
Danielle