Thread: Working dog info

Michael you are starting from the very best viewpoint in regards to ascertaining the best dog for your purpose.
For starters shop around and look for a kennel that is run by an active trainer of dogs to provide a dog that will stand the best chance of realising your vision of a meritous canine companion/protector.
Are you a first time dog owner?
What type of lifestyle would you be wanting to live with the dog in terms of social settings would you be wanting the dog to endure?
How much exercise per day would you be wanting the dog to perform (re running/biking, etc).
What temperature do you live in?
What are your end goals regarding personal protection/sport training?
What are your living situations?
Are you single, or partnered in some way?
What type of housing do you have?
What is your access to good advice regarding qualified and experienced trainers in your area?
How specfic can you be in regards to your requirements, and have you filled out a SWOT type analysis regarding your current overall situation and your desired outcomes?

Just a couple of casual questions that your potential breeder may wish to ask you before you purchase your puppy.

Also an example of the kind of chatter that you should be engaged in with a good trainer during the assessment/sign on of your puppy or even older dog as part of dealing with a really good and knowledgable trainer that understands the balance between what you want, what you need, and what you need to get there in the most efficient and mutually agreeable financial fashion.

Just remember Michael...the best trainers and breeders will spend the least time with you discussing what other breeders or trainers do in a derogitory fashion.

A great trainer will also understand the importance of real engagement between you and your dog, and also the effect of and correct application of positive punishment in order to teach the concept of avoidance to the pup/young dog.

It is all about an understanding between the dog and the handler, and establishing a socially and ethically balanced outcome. By the sound of things you are seeking a working pet, so it would be well advised to look for a trainer that can understand your desired outcome intimately (assuming I am correct).

Your trainer will be able to come to know you for a period if you take the time to get to know them, maybe observe some training, talk with them a bit, and ask them to help you by giving you advice on the pros and cons of certain dog breeds for your situation. A good one, even a trainer that breeds a certain breed, will possibly recommend a potential breed that they are not personally involved with.

As a very general rule, GSD's or the more secure lines of Mals, could offer you a great dog in a great package. I would consider finding a breeder that offers a performance guarantee with their dogs, and that you only ever take a puppy based on how it works out at 12mo of age.

Also, don't just take your breeders recommendation of a given trainer, ask them why they recommend the trainer they refer you to.

Research your trainer, make visits to a few and get a feel for an individual that you feel comfortable learning from and working with, without being intimidated by them.

Just a little info I hope makes your first dog more pleasurable.