Poodles
are in the Top 10 of intelligent dogs.
But boy they look absolutely ridiculous - especially when people shave them. Which you might have to do for these HOT summers we get now.
Plus - with intelligent dogs, you have to give them a lot of stimulation and attention or they get gnarly and snappy like a ADHD kid.
When a Dog shakes its head - it's disagreeing with you. Strange but true.
Cattle Dogs
are not great pets to have for kids. Very nippy and of low temperament. Good for adults and farm work.
Small dogs can tend to be 'noisy' barkers and very 'nippy' to visitors at first. if family is rushing around in house, they can get tripped over - when seeking attention. Because small - they have an insecurity for attention.
Cats
are a major problem. They may have some advantages compared to dogs. But they are the major cause of Dogs barking at night. Plus when Cats roam at night (killing native animals) - they cost you heaps in Vet bills from all the bite and scratch tears from fights.
There is a popular breed of cat going around. I forget the name of them - but they are 80% indoor cats and lazy. Nothing more than a piece of furniture you feed and feed the Vet.
Get a Medium sized Dog. Sprint is right -
get a Dog that you and your Hubby would like. The kids will still warm to it ...for a few weeks. But as it grows, they will find their pace with the dog and appreciate it's company.
Nothing worse than little white fluffy dogs that leave hairs all over the car seats - very difficult to get out (from experience) even with a vacuum.
Everyone tells me that a
Maremma
(herd) Dog is the one most suited to me. Very independent dog. Famed for saving Penguins on islands. Might give it a try one day.
ATM - I'm looking after my mate's
Huskies
while he is in Antarctica.
I like
Portuguese Water Dogs
too. Water-resistant coat. Can dive down 5m underwater. Great for Swimmers, Beach-goers and Snorkelers.
If you have a small backyard over there in Huongville and live in a Block House or Unit. Then a 'small' dog is your go.
If you have a decent size yard - then go for Medium Size dog.
You can't afford a 'large' dog. Eats/poos a lot!
They need Rural or very large (old style plots) backyards.
I think you should come back to us Lisa when you have decided on a breed. We might have some good input for your choice.
...there is also the
. Absolutely fantastic dogs for first timers