10-2-2013 at 9:23 PM

1)How Much activity will it get?<br /> <br /> I am planning to get into a routine of 3 walks a day, before every meal (breakfast,lunch and dinner).<br /> <br /> On weekends and possible some week days I would love to go biking or rollerblading with it ^^<br /> <br /> 2)how much room can I give this dog, will it have a backyard? Or will it be living in an apartment?<br /> <br /> Unfortunately I can't answer that right now, I will be graduating and looking for full-time employment, and saving up quite a bit of money bore I even begin looking at any dogs. I want to be sure that everything is stable before I bring a dog into my life ^^<br /> <br /> 3)How much grooming am I willing to do/spend money on?<br /> <br /> I was hoping maybe just brushing 3 times a week? (assuming the weather Is great and the dog doesn't get into anything.)<br /> <br /> I'll definitely be looking into Labs, Poodles and Golden Retrievers, thanks guys and any more suggestions? =3

09-30-2013 at 11:19 PM

It really really depends on your lifestyle. Questions you need to ask are: <br /> 1)How Much activity will it get?(physical and mental stimulation- unstimulated dogs are destructive dogs)<br /> 2)how much room can I give this dog, will it have a backyard? Or will it be living in an apartment?<br /> 3)How much grooming am I willing to do/spend money on?<br /> <br /> Beyond that, I honestly think a mutt, with some lab and terrier, would be the best. Seriously though, generally speaking, all Labs and Retrievers need lots of physical activity. Shepherds of any kind need a 'job'. If you won't have time for training or for excessive play, I highly suggest a 'dumber' breed. A boxer, or other companion breed tends better fit a calmer, house-content lifestyle.

09-30-2013 at 9:44 PM

We're thinking of getting a Border Collie in a year or two, so here's some information I've gathered over the weekend --<br /> <br /> They're famously known for being the (or one of the) smartest dogs on earth, making them easier to train and so-on. <br /> They do need a lot of exercise, so you'll need a big yard and a few spare hours to walk and play with them... And be prepared for a bit of shedding! <br /> If you have younger kids in your family the dog might start herding them (it's cute, but might annoy them) and, as with most dogs, there can be the 'Dominance Problem'. <br /> If you live on your (or a relative owns one) a herding dog would like a Border Collie would be a lot better - it becomes kind of gory if non-herding dogs start trying to chase livestock...<br /> Loyal, playful and a great dog overall. My family have had quite a few in the past, and especially my grandparents who live on a farm.

09-30-2013 at 9:42 PM

I think a great first-time dog owner breed would be a poodle - you could get the standard size. They're extremely trainable and intelligent, but not known for stubbornness. The first dog I really owned as a kid was a poodle. I'm obsessed with the breed. I know there's a lot of people who see them as "prissy" dogs but they're not at all - they're hardy and lively without being full of annoying energy like a husky is. They're also super loving. I really recommend poodles or poodle mixes to everyone who wants an easy dog!<br /> <br /> Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are classic first time owner breeds. Personally I prefer Golden Retrievers since they, in my experience, have less energy than labs tend to. Some labs I've met have been pretty hyper. I guess it just depends on your activity level - they're both trainable and friendly, though.<br /> <br /> I really recommend avoiding a German Shepherd. They're super smart but they're really stubborn. They always try to outsmart you. My mother has always had German Shepherds and it takes a lot of training and effort to stay on top of their intelligence and make them behave. They're one of the worst breeds for new owners, I think - right up there with huskies and the like.

09-30-2013 at 9:38 PM

A good dog might be be a Labrador really, they're smart, loyal, and would be more than happy to go rollerblading and biking with you. A canaan dog might be good as well. Any sort of lab dog or retriever really might work as well for you.

09-30-2013 at 9:37 PM

Well, I would've suggested a Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu Poodle, until I read the 'above knee' part. I had an Aussie/Pironese mix for about a week, and he was fun... shed a bunch, tho. <br /> A Laborador might suffice as well :)

09-30-2013 at 9:10 PM

I was aware of the coat requirements, and while I personally haven't owned a dog, most of my family has, so when I would visit they would let me walk/bath them so I do have a little experience.<br /> <br /> I live up in Canadia (xD), and I was hoping to be able to rollerblade/bike with my dog, so it's great that they are smart and trainable.<br /> <br /> Thank you for the information! =D

09-30-2013 at 8:27 PM

With german Shepherds training is improtant and most apartments Do Not welcome larger dogs/dogs in general.Shed nonstop and have water resistant outer coats, making bathing hard, so prepare for a wet doggy smell. Can be vocal and keep in mind if you live near a farm due to their herding nature, They may wonder off and in California, a dog harassing livestock, May be shot. <br /> But heres a plus: <br /> Smart smart smart! Yes they are!<br /> Love exercise, (= are confident and loyal. <br /> Wide variety of colors and will be protective over family/live stock or other pets. <br /> Heres a few pointers for a GSD. My friend has one and shes such a sweet dog, so by all means I love the breed! Just giving a few cons to the ever so popular breed! :D Hope this helps!