Sibes and other northern breeds

[monkeys23]

Originally Posted by Laurelin

I know I am looking at a next dog and any way I go with it, I will have to compromise because even within the type I like, there's not a perfect fit. Too much coat, too big, too small, too much energy, not enough energy, docked tail, etc. When you get that specific you are looking at lines more than breeds imo.

This makes me feel a little awkwardly overprepared for what I want out of my next dog. Lalalala...

I think Lapphund might be a good idea to look into.

[Finkie_Mom]

Yep, Finnish Spitz would be too small, and definitely not biddable (if that's a quality you're looking for). I also think a Lapphund might be worth looking in to. Though you would be looking at the top of the size-range for them, I believe... The standard states that height at the withers is only maybe an inch higher for both males and females than Finkies, and my guys stand at (approximately) 16.5", 17", and 17.5", the last measurement being my male. So I dunno. I guess a larger-than-standard one might work?

[frostfell]

Yeah thats pretty much what Im looking at. What I NEED is an American Bully with long hair and 12" taller, but thats not gonna happen so......

What about an English Shepherd or Aussie (with tail)?

[Aleron]

I think an English Shepherd might work really well for what you want. Probably more so than an Aussie, especially if you are only looking at breeders who leave tails on.

[monkeys23]

I could see an English Shepherd working nicely.

I would advise against Aussies and BC's. They might be a little more dog than you are looking for.

[frostfell]

Now this is an interesting answer-- as Iv been told that ESs are more of a working dog (still) than Aussies and BCs, even working line AS and BC. What is everyones experience with those breeds and their temperament and particulars?

[Emily]

Originally Posted by frostfell

Now this is an interesting answer-- as Iv been told that ESs are more of a working dog (still) than Aussies and BCs, even working line AS and BC. What is everyones experience with those breeds and their temperament and particulars?

ES are indeed more rustic and remain unrecognized by major kennel clubs, so there are no "show bred" ES. But AFAIK most ES breeders try to produce dogs that are well rounded farm dogs and family members. So while they do have drive and are bred to work, a good ES should have no problem settling in the house, hanging with the kids, etc. They're kind of a good all rounder.

[frostfell]

Originally Posted by Emily

ES are indeed more rustic and remain unrecognized by major kennel clubs, so there are no "show bred" ES. But AFAIK most ES breeders try to produce dogs that are well rounded farm dogs and family members. So while they do have drive and are bred to work, a good ES should have no problem settling in the house, hanging with the kids, etc. They're kind of a good all rounder.

Ah yes, that makes sense. The only reason I know of the ES at all is the blog Raised By Wolves, the author of which makes her dogs sound absolutely perfect, but Ive been skeptical that theyre just perfect because she has land and animals to work the ESs. I dont have that, so Im not sure how well they would work for me being a workin joe, so to speak

Does anyone on the forum own any?

[Emily]

The user Sit Stay on here (http://www.chazhound.com/forums/member.php?u=30591) owns a very well bred ES bitch named Quinn.

[AdrianneIsabel]

Aussies can be buttheads, they may not be ideal.


She says while monitoring a play group with two Aussies. LOL