Anyone familiar with them? I've met one and while he was very gorgeous, his temperament left much to be desired and I don't think was correct for the breed. But after watching them on dogs 101 I decided to give them another look.
I want another hiking companion as many of my dogs are getting too old to go on longer more strenuous hikes and I had narrowed it down to 2 breeds, there are a few drawbacks to each that makes he hesitate.
I want a large dog- 75-120lb range. No bigger really b/c I want a more athletic dog. I prefer a taller dog at least 28" at the shoulder. Something I can hold by the collar w/o bending over.
I want more medium energy, but good endurance. Off switch at home, but have no problem going on a 10 mile hike. Dog will get daily exercise through out the week, but my off days would be the heavier activity days. But I don't want a dog that is going to bounce off the walls if we are having major t-storms and can't go running that day.
Short coat. At least heat tolerant as I live in FL.
Protective as I hike alone 99% of the time.
Woods smart/outdoorsy dog is plus as we hike mainly in the woods, dogs off leash for the most part depending on where we are at.
Must at least get along with other dogs in the house, not too concerned with dogs outside the family. Prefer pack orientated dog.
Not concerned with formal obedience. My requirements are pretty basic sit on command, lie down, stay and come when called and don't pull on the leash! Which any dog breed can be taught.
I want another hiking companion as many of my dogs are getting too old to go on longer more strenuous hikes and I had narrowed it down to 2 breeds, there are a few drawbacks to each that makes he hesitate.
I want a large dog- 75-120lb range. No bigger really b/c I want a more athletic dog. I prefer a taller dog at least 28" at the shoulder. Something I can hold by the collar w/o bending over.
I want more medium energy, but good endurance. Off switch at home, but have no problem going on a 10 mile hike. Dog will get daily exercise through out the week, but my off days would be the heavier activity days. But I don't want a dog that is going to bounce off the walls if we are having major t-storms and can't go running that day.
Short coat. At least heat tolerant as I live in FL.
Protective as I hike alone 99% of the time.
Woods smart/outdoorsy dog is plus as we hike mainly in the woods, dogs off leash for the most part depending on where we are at.
Must at least get along with other dogs in the house, not too concerned with dogs outside the family. Prefer pack orientated dog.
Not concerned with formal obedience. My requirements are pretty basic sit on command, lie down, stay and come when called and don't pull on the leash! Which any dog breed can be taught.