Another vote for Staff here, they got a reputation they dont deserve, as soft as putty and loyal to boot if you treat them right
Can you come and take the two off the bottom feeders that have moved next door?
They tick lots of STW boxes this lot...particularly when it comes to weight and cigarettes 😉
Belgian Shepherd and some kind of collie...living together in a small terraced house. Belgian shepherd was bought "at a motorway services" (which got a huge 🙄 when mentioned to a veterinary mate) and the collie came from "our mum...who couldn't manage him".
Both the dogs never (sorry, not never, maybe once or twice in the three months they've lived there) get walked...cooped up in the house all day, let out in the back garden to drive one another to distraction in the evening...then howl at night and all day.
Please come and steal them and give them a good home. They're both such lovely dogs. It breaks my heart to see them being looked after by idiots. 🙁
[url=
sheppard/malinois[/url]
don simon - Member
Staffordshire Bull Terrier, absolutely awesome with kids
Agree, one of only two breeds reccomended by the Kennel Club for families apparently.
Yes, we've got one, and she is no problem whatsoever with out 9 year old son. They can dislike other dogs, but ours doesn't, she was well trained before we got her as a rescue. Loyal & faithful, trainable to a certain extent. Can have an intense dislike/hatred of cats, both of the ones we've had couldn't bear cats in the garden and would express unhappiness if they came across a cat on a walk.
Ours could pull a bit on her lead when we first got her, but we changed her to a harness and that solved the problem.
Weimaraner is a no no unless you can work them hard mentally. Any decent breed rescue can sort you out a dog to fit your circumstances.
I concur that Carriegolds doberman is a princess, the other one is a bit industrial to balance this out. 😕 Both are great dogs.
How about this one, sat lonely and waiting at my local rescue centre.
needs a little work.... but nearly paid for!
http://www.justgiving.com/Fix-Roses-Broken-Heart
possible the cutest looking dog ever.....so cute its cost me a tenner!
Ours could pull a bit on her lead when we first got her, but we changed her to a harness and that solved the problem.
Very unusual for mine to pull me over, even when she sees a cat... Usually my fault for not concentrating. Normally she'll take the lead to max and I can hold her with just one finger.
Mine is a recue dog too.
Part of the bad rep thet they get, I believe, is because the lazy press use pictures of Staffs to illustrate stories about dangerous dogs. People get confused.
I wouldn't have any other breed.
Another photo...
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Another rescue dog here. She's a ... well ... a ... erm ... a 'dog.' Probably some lab & collie in there, but generally, just a 'dog.' Daft, is great with our 2 girls (who both arrived after her), the cat and 2 chickens.
Wife's away with the kids this week so she gets to sleep upstairs!
[url= http://www.bassetfauvedebretagneclub.com/ ]basset fauve[/url]
We just got an 8 month old Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
We have two kids with reasonable sized garden.
He has an excellent nature in the house, very friendly, and playful with the kids. After a short time with him he is responding to training well.
He is a hound so you do need to be aware when walking him that he reacts to a lot of smells and can get distracted easily. He is also modest in size.
We have a 13 year old Westie you can have for nowt.....top tip dont get a Westie they cost a fortune and have every ailment going. Get a mongrel.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Developed in Zimbabwe (Rhodesia) and South Africa back in the 16th century, this breed is also known as the African Lion Hound. These silent pack hunters were bred by European settlers to track down a lion, or other game, then corner it and or lure it into shooting range. So these dogs were originally bred for their courage, agility, endurance and instincts.
Though not all ridgebacks are born with ridges, the breed is named after a ridge of backward growing hair that runs along their back. This is characteristic of the Hottentot hunting dog. This semi-wild African breed was interbred with imported mastiffs, bloodhounds, pointers and greyhounds. Great danes and bulldogs may also have been in the mix. The native Hottentot dogs may have originated from, or be related to, the Thai ridgeback. All of these breeds produced a powerful hunting dog, that could withstand hot days, freezing nights, require little water and would guard the property at night. The breed is now very common in South Africa.
As a sight and scent hound, ridgebacks have a very high prey drive. These independent dogs are always alert for movement and willing to track and chase potential prey. Even when you are yelling for them to return. And boy, can they run fast. Something to keep in mind for owners who live near busy roads. Some have been know to run part way up a tree after a squirrel.
Lure coursing is a good activity for your ridgeback. This is where several dogs chase a string pulled lure across a field.
Ridgebacks are intelligent and will find ways to amuse themselves if not kept busy. So not a good breed to leave alone in the house or yard for an extended period. Avid gardeners may also want to think twice about having a ridgeback. Despite their independence, they prefer to be close to their owners around the house.
Ridgebacks learn very fast and are good problem solvers. However, they have short attention spans when it comes to activities like training. Tracking is sport, while obedience is too much like work.
Positive reinforcement is your only chance at success when it comes to training a ridgeback. These clever dogs have a long memory when it comes to harsh treatment. Not all owners can cope with their stubborn streak. Ample amounts of exercise cures most problems as a tired ridgeback is a good ridgeback.
Ideally, these strong and active dogs need a huge yard (with a very tall fence) or an acreage to run around and explore. They also need daily walks and runs. However, they are mostly docile inside the house and mature into very calm dogs. Please note: they love comfort and will take over beds and couches unless trained otherwise.
According to the book 'Your Family Dog' by Maxwell Riddle, actor Errol Flynn helped popularize the breed in the United States. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955, but are still fairly uncommon.
Pups may be born with dermoid sinus, a cyst that needs early surgical removal. Hip dysplasia and elbow problems can develop, though incidences are lower than many other breeds. Thyroid disorders and cataracts are also known issues. Due to their hanging ears, it's not uncommon for ridgebacks to develop ear infections.
With minimal fat reserves, ridgebacks are also very sensitive to medications, anesthesia and chemicals such as flea powder.
Many can and will eat anything, in a bowl, on the floor and even on a counter. They are also clever enough to get into kitchen cupboards.
Due to their love of food, and endless appetites, you must watch their weight. A percentage have allergies to food and or environmental.
They are known for their loyalty, often targeting one member of the household. They are also very willing to please. Unless there's a bunny to chase. Otherwise, they are a great companion.
Ridgebacks are generally good watch dogs, though not active barkers unless bored. So if your well adjusted ridgeback does bark, it's a good idea to check out the disturbance. Their biting power, even as pups, is comparable to a Doberman Pinscher, and their teeth are quite sharp. Mostly reserved with strangers.
Their undomesticated heritage can surface in quirky habits like greeting you with a butt sniff. And despite protests, they don't always clue in that butt sniffing humans is inappropriate behavior.
Color: Either buff, to gold or red wheaten with a black face, ears and nails. OR liver colored. Both colors may have white on their chest or toes.
Their short, dense, sleek coat requires minimal grooming. They are generally very clean dogs with little or no odor. Chest and toes may have some white fur.
Skull is flat and broad. Eyes are quite wide apart and match the color of their wheaten fur. Muzzle is black, wheaten or liver colored. Breed standards state...When the ears are brought forward in an alert position, the skin is furrowed with expressive wrinkles on the backskull between the ears and above and between the eyes...
Pups weigh around a pound at birth.
Need socializing as pups to accept other dogs and cats. Naturally gregarious with other family dogs.
Shoulder Height: From 24 to 27 inches (61 to 68.6 centimeters).
Weight ranges from 65 to 90 pounds (29.5 to 41 kilograms), though some have now been bred over 100 pounds (45.5 kg).
Feet are webbed for walking on African sand.
Females are slightly smaller.
Life span: up to 12 years, though some have lived to 16.
And here is a picture of mine
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Can someone summarise that for me?
"Hey honey, lets get a Rhodesian Ridgeback"
Pal of mine has one. It is so crazy and aggressive he doesnt invite people with kids to his place anymore. Yes I know he just hasnt "trained" it properly but I'm looking for a family pet, not a potential court case.
Staffies - am sure they are lovely dogs but just not for me. I like the fact that people come up and pet the Beagle when we are out and about. They have an image problem, deserved or not.
My old man had a Ridgeback when in Zambia....it was a bloody massive guard dog and the Africans wouldn't come within 10ft of it.
Vizsla.
Ours is brilliant. He's 16 months old and can be somewhat exuberent, but is obedient, great with kids and a great family dog. He's also great running with the bike. They do need exercise then.
Picture?
OK... go on then...
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Most ridgebacks are soft as anything.
BUT, check out the list of potential ailments in bj.any's monologue. They all cost money to treat, and the ridge itself is a mild form of spina bifida. Some are born without the ridge, but they are often strangled at birth by the breeder, so as not to pollute the breed. Nice, eh?
Ridgebacks are not alone. Most pedigree dogs have congenital defects particular to the breed, and that means discomfort for the dog, and a fortune at the Vet's for you.
To the OP, you're obviously approaching this with an open mind, so get down to the rescue centre and see what they have. They know the dogs in their care, and should be able to guide you with your selection.
Mongrels are also healthier. My last four have only ever had visits to the vet for regular jabs, and a grass seed in the paw.
Each of mine have had totally different personalities, which is one of the joys of dog ownership.
Springers are ace - he makes me laugh every day - however he is quite naughty and has a few issues. These come from having 3 homes before 5 years old.
We got him from NESSR.NET - Northern English Springer Spaniel Rescue - not just northern though they have dogs in foster all over and will travel etc.
He was ran over in October and is nearly all fixed now - vet reckons if he wasnt as fit or string he wouldnt have made it through the 3 ops he had on his spine.
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Rescue isnt totally out of the question but like I said before we had just loads of heartache (and bleeding) with one a few years ago. Maybe I should look at a retired greyhound, know everyone loves them. Will check out the Springer rescue people, thanks......
....and once more just to be clear
I'M NOT GETTING A FRIGGIN RIDGEBACK!!!!!!!!
why is that people who have got dogs that look easily capable of tearing a grown man apart, and have been bred to at least look that way, always insist on telling you how soft it is? If they wanted soft why didnt they get a bichon frisse or whatever they are called.
Some of the only dogs in our village our old cantankerous terrier Peggy actually like were two rhodesian ridgebacks. They were really friendly with her and they got on brilliantly. Sadly one died, then the other as it aged went a bit mad, attacked the owner and she had it put down. she said that's quite common with them. Another example of inbreeding?
The Dogs Trust do a basic pyschological profile of the dogs in their care, so you can see what they are like with other dogs, around food, children, on walks etc... Helps you decide that the dog is suitable. They also interview you and supervise you with the dog and all members of your family get to meet the dog at the centre before the adoption gets approved. It sounds long-winded but actually isn't too much hassle. They are more open minded than the RSPCA to adoptive homes.
Not all dog rescue centres are the same, it's worth contacting your nearest dogs trust centre and talking to them. Only down side is that it's heart breaking to see so many in the kennels and you can't take them all!
Good luck!
McBoo, as many people will come & pet a staffie as will cross the road from you, especially those who are familiar with the breed.
Our staff is over inquisitive & friendly with visitors, so she can be a bit of a nuisance to a new visitor, but once the 2 minutes of welcoming is done she'll sit quietly on her cushion until told otherwise.
anagallis_arvensis, any dog is capable of harm, often depends upon how they've been raised/trained, and at the time they do harm, the amount of supervision provided by the owner. Fair enough, breeds such as Staffs or Ridgebacks will do more harm if it gets to that point, but any breed of dog has the potential.
Neighbour had a Yorkie that couldn't live in the house, it was verging on psychotic and would go for anyone, not good when they had a toddler & a new baby on the way. Paul often commented that he wished he had a dog like our staff rather than the yorkie.
Anargalis Arvensis; to answer your question- would you want a dog smarter than you?
My missus has a Staffie, it's been well trained and as above is soft as hell. Loves people and has never started on any other dogs (it lives on the farm with a greyhound, collie and a terrier thing).
Taking it for walks anywhere busy is just a nightmare. She's never caused a problem but loads of other dogs seem to want a pick a fight with her and I'm on edge knowing that if she retalitates the other dog is probably gonna have a bad time. There's also the stigma of having a staffie and people crossing the road etc..
Taking my folks labs for a walk is a much more laid back affair, +1 for labs.
Staffies - am sure they are lovely dogs but just not for me. I like the fact that people come up and pet the Beagle when we are out and about. They have an image problem, deserved or not.
Fair enough, I respect your decision, but it would be nice if you could get to know a Staffie and join the legion of fans. My mother was the same as you until she met my first Staffordshire, dificult as it was for her, she admitted that he was quite nice really and not as bad as she thought!!
EDIT: Might aswell sling in another pic. 😆
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Lab's every time for me
Anargalis Arvensis; to answer your question- would you want a dog smarter than you?
I have no idea how that answers my question so maybe it wouldnt be too difficult to have a dog smarter than me.
anagallis_arvensis, any dog is capable of harm, often depends upon how they've been raised/trained, and at the time they do harm, the amount of supervision provided by the owner. Fair enough, breeds such as Staffs or Ridgebacks will do more harm if it gets to that point, but any breed of dog has the potential.
true but wasnt really my point, which was that people with big powerful dogs with massive jaws are always quick to point out how soft they are, if they wanted a soft dog why not get a lab.
true but wasnt really my point, which was that people with big powerful dogs with massive jaws are always quick to point out how soft they are, if they wanted a soft dog why not get a lab.
For me the Staffordshire is a beautiful animal with a great temprament they are very friendly and very loyal and intelligent. She is 30 odd kilos (I think, I've never weighed her) and will defend herself to the death, which is not the same as aggressive.
We will play fight but she will always pull away if I put my hand or arm in her mouth when fighting with her. So yes, in a way she's soft, but she does offer other things that I don't think a lab could offer me. 😀
Another edit: Massive jaws you say? She's smiling!!
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My missus has a Staffie, it's been well trained and as above is soft as hell. Loves people and has never started on any other dogs (it lives on the farm with a greyhound, collie and a terrier thing).Taking it for walks anywhere busy is just a nightmare. She's never caused a problem but loads of other dogs seem to want a pick a fight with her and I'm on edge knowing that if she retalitates the other dog is probably gonna have a bad time. There's also the stigma of having a staffie and people crossing the road etc..
Absolutely agree with this. Other dogs seem to want to have a go, particularly Jack Russells and Westies with their "small man" chip on their shoulders. But the truth is they are people dogs and not aggressive unless they have to be. Ours hates to be rushed by dogs off of the lead but then so did my Border Collie when I was a child...
We also have a 35kg Boxer who is soppy as a sack but when walking with these two all the uneducated cross the road, which is sad really.
Our staffie is now 5 years old and loves the kids to the extent that when we are out walking she will wait for the youngest to catch up. They are known as the "Nanny dog" for a reason and are great companions.
Only one problem with a powerful dog like a staff (and many others TBF) is that if by chance they do turn which can happen it can be very destructive, where as terriers (the small ones) dont really have the capacity to throw a child around the room like a rag doll. We have a Westie (snappy little bstard) and he has nipped the kids before when ears have been pulled..eyes poked and has recieved a toe up the arse for it but I very much doubt he could mame or kill a child as he has enough trouble chewing through dry dog biscuit. But with that said I have no problems with Staffs just an observation.
Only one problem with a powerful dog like a staff (and many others TBF) is that if by chance they do turn which can happen it can be very destructive
Except it's not instictive in a Staff, they have to be taught to be aggresive, whereas with a Westie...
I'm sorry I wasnt trying to make out staffies were aggressive I was just pointing out that many owners of staffies, boxers, rotties etc are always banging on about how they are protective and loyal yet soft. To me its odd, or maybe its just me thats odd.
One thing I would say about Staffies is they usually seem good natured with people but if push comes to shove with other dogs they wont back down. Its also odd that the bloody huge ones owned by the local chav's all seem to strut into the park with chips on their shoulders as far as other dogs go
Which is why there are so many of the poor buggers in rescue centres, never likely to be rehomed, and looking at a lethal injection as their only future. If some chav has been "training" a Staffie by burning it with fag ends, I don't think I'd be brave enough to re-home it.
Having witnessed my next door neighbour, as a kid, having half his face removed by the family pet, no matter how "soft" ALL the staffies I know are, I couldn't trust one completely, just as I wouldn't trust my Jack Russell with strange kids.Fine if they know how to treat dogs, but so many these days seem to be petrified of them.
what about a :wink:nice greyhound 😉
Probably a good decision about NOT getting a Ridgeback.
I have a 14 month old, and I have to say, it's been quite hard work!
I agree with only 50% of the 'write up' above, but with your considerations I would advise againt. Mine hasn't got a bad bone in his body, but he's big and incredibly strong and can hurt you in SO many ways without trying to or meaning to!! He will be perfect when he calms down, but not everyone can wait for that to happen!
He loves watching other dogs on telly ...
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And he's a bit Scooby Doo at times ...
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Wouldn't be without him, but not for everyone.
My choice would be an Italian Spinone. There is one I always meet when walking my dog, it's brilliant with other dogs and its owner says he is great with their kids.
Or just go for a mongrel, far less health issues and in my opinion more appealing.
Here is our Jack Russell x
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jack Russell x yeti
perhaps a small whippet... 😉
Get one of [url=
(Labrador n ot bike).
brilliant, he's got ears like Kea (my big hairy whippet) who is just about to be taken swimming and then to vets, fingers crossed for good news on the injury and she can once more be unleashed on an unsuspecting world.
Good vid Stan, some on here would say his 'bars' are too wide for single track but he seems in control! 😀
A local spaniel runs around with too big sticks and we have seen him come to grief more than once on narrow single track!
one of these, 4year old rescue, thinks shes a pup!!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dolcered/4905729832/
springer spaniel!
wouldnt like to have been the burglar who accidentally chewed the top of her ear off!!
And remember , owners do grow to look like their dogs - not vice versa- so choose one with a handsome face, good breath, and a fine pair of plums.
