
Originally Posted by
Tock
I used to be a dogcatcher, and my experience with chows hasn't been pleasant. It seems that they're fine up to about 5 years, then their middle age crisis usually sets in, and they're trouble. One guy brought his in to the shelter after it chewed up his face.
I used to train German Shepherds in the military, they're pretty cool dogs, but they're prone to hip problems. Actually, a lot of the breeds have health problems . . . probably the healthiest dog you can get will be a mutt.
If I was gonna get a dog, I'd go for a Cairn terrier (Dorothy's dog in the Wizard of Oz). I trained one for drug sniffing, and they're lots of fun. Inexhaustably playful, extraordinarily intelligent (they're like little kids, and some of 'em will try to talk to ya), cheerful, independant, and they're happy in apartments. Just brush 'em once or twice a week, and don't over feed 'em, and that's about it.
Of course, you should really decide what you want in a pet . . . English Bulldogs are suited for living the life of a couch potato, Afghans need lots of acreage to run and run. Pekenese will want to sit in your lap, many of the smaller terriers will be more interested in staying busy. Just depends on what you want, how much time you have to devote to your dog. Some crave attention and will self-destruct if you work long hours, others will be glad to see you when you open the door, then all they'll want is supper.
Check out the various breeds, know what you're getting, what they need. It's no good to get a dog that doesn't suit your lifestyle.
-Tock