I'm making this thread to take my mind off the very stressful current events in my life right now....
Basically - just share info and what you personally think people should be really aware of before jumping into a relationship and commitment with a breed they are interested in. So everyone can share abit of their understanding/feelings of their own breeds =) pictures of your dogs would be great too
So it'll start with a "Before you get a..."
Katalin getting her nails grinded...
Before you get a....Kuvasz
They are big, goofy, loving and lovable teddybears - to their families. If you want a dog that will slobber and welcome guests freely to your residence, love everyone, and live to breath the air you do and lay at your feet waiting for commands - by all means, get ANOTHER kind of dog!
*Slow to mature - be prepared for puppyish behavior and mentality for a long time. 1 - 1 1/2 years for females, 2 - 3 for males. Socialization "acceptance" window starts closing at around 2 generally - so introduce them and let them be handled by anyone whom is a fixture in your life well before then.
*They SHED. Your best friend will be a lint brush and heavy duty vacuum. Lowest maintenance "self-cleaning" coat though - baths aren't needed often and they don't smell.
*They AREN'T good off leash, at dog parks, or in unfenced yards. They are very prone to roaming and will not generally stay near you/your family when out and about. Obedience training starts early and you must be firm about it - be prepared to be incredibly frustrated.
*They are independent and intellectual. They constantly think and are really easily distracted. Don't feel like your dog is giving you the "cold shoulder" if he/she doesn't want to be at your feet or in your lap every waking moment - they do show love though, and are really sweet dogs to their people - you just need to appreciate it if they show it in unique, less typical ways.
*Socialize the hell out of them. Take them to the market, mall, bank, shops etc - You'll be thankful for it when you realize you can take your huge white guard dog out for walks and let it join in on activities without wanting to have everything/one for lunch or any other nasty reactions.
*They have "soft" temperaments. They are sensitive, responsive, and gentle. Be very firm but fair - these dogs don't take to beatings, abuse, or unfair treatment kindly - they will make this clear to you sooner or later if they aren't handled properly.
Basically - just share info and what you personally think people should be really aware of before jumping into a relationship and commitment with a breed they are interested in. So everyone can share abit of their understanding/feelings of their own breeds =) pictures of your dogs would be great too
So it'll start with a "Before you get a..."
Katalin getting her nails grinded...
Before you get a....Kuvasz
They are big, goofy, loving and lovable teddybears - to their families. If you want a dog that will slobber and welcome guests freely to your residence, love everyone, and live to breath the air you do and lay at your feet waiting for commands - by all means, get ANOTHER kind of dog!
*Slow to mature - be prepared for puppyish behavior and mentality for a long time. 1 - 1 1/2 years for females, 2 - 3 for males. Socialization "acceptance" window starts closing at around 2 generally - so introduce them and let them be handled by anyone whom is a fixture in your life well before then.
*They SHED. Your best friend will be a lint brush and heavy duty vacuum. Lowest maintenance "self-cleaning" coat though - baths aren't needed often and they don't smell.
*They AREN'T good off leash, at dog parks, or in unfenced yards. They are very prone to roaming and will not generally stay near you/your family when out and about. Obedience training starts early and you must be firm about it - be prepared to be incredibly frustrated.
*They are independent and intellectual. They constantly think and are really easily distracted. Don't feel like your dog is giving you the "cold shoulder" if he/she doesn't want to be at your feet or in your lap every waking moment - they do show love though, and are really sweet dogs to their people - you just need to appreciate it if they show it in unique, less typical ways.
*Socialize the hell out of them. Take them to the market, mall, bank, shops etc - You'll be thankful for it when you realize you can take your huge white guard dog out for walks and let it join in on activities without wanting to have everything/one for lunch or any other nasty reactions.
*They have "soft" temperaments. They are sensitive, responsive, and gentle. Be very firm but fair - these dogs don't take to beatings, abuse, or unfair treatment kindly - they will make this clear to you sooner or later if they aren't handled properly.