|
Post by Firefox on Oct 29, 2013 17:09:47 GMT
I'm looking for small to medium breed generally known for good temperament. One that enjoys walks and the outdoor life but does not demand constant exercise. I found this link to be quite a good summary of breed characteristics and the available breeds. www.champdogs.co.uk/breedsDoes anyone have any thoughts on the right kind of dog?
|
|
|
Post by billieblue on Oct 29, 2013 18:39:52 GMT
Definitely not a 6 month springer spaniel! Sadly, I've had to re home Jess. But, she's gone to a house with a big garden, another dog to run round with (they took to each other immediately. The new owner said it's like they've grown up together) and kids to play with. It was a mistake to get a puppy but she's happy now and in a better situation than when with her previous owner or me. All's well that ends well
|
|
|
Post by Mikehanky on Oct 29, 2013 19:50:47 GMT
Hi vernon I now you took a likeing to bailey over the week end but be carefull any dog with hound in his name, can be a problem hounds hunt.And will run with out warning ,we have had a few dogs over the years and good old hienz 47 variety have all ways been good loyal freinds good luck m8
|
|
|
Post by Etienne Le Croq on Oct 29, 2013 19:55:47 GMT
Bichon Frise,
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Oct 29, 2013 19:58:23 GMT
Yes, agreed that is a drawback but they all seem to have some drawbacks. Unless you can get a good mongrel, but even then there's the risk of the unknown. Still... I would not get a dog unless I'm not working so it will be some way off in any event.
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Oct 29, 2013 20:00:02 GMT
Do you have a Bichon Frise, Ellisboy
|
|
|
Post by francophile1947 on Oct 29, 2013 20:12:50 GMT
|
|
|
Post by Etienne Le Croq on Oct 29, 2013 20:38:29 GMT
Yes Chap, Daisy she's three now. She loves travelling and I take her to work most days.Also she's a babe magnet,you'll get women of all ages talking to you.Bichons don't moult , so no dog hairs ,which is good as Bichons only come in white and I wear black clothes! They are very strong willed though and need a strong will whilst training them.
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Oct 29, 2013 21:12:29 GMT
Oh yes I remember now! How do you get on taking her to work? Doesn't she want to be come out and watch you work which could dangerous when working with tools etc. Or is she happy staying in the van sleeping?
|
|
|
Post by Etienne Le Croq on Oct 29, 2013 21:56:33 GMT
I've been taking her to work since a puppy ( 8 weeks old), she sits in a cage,now leave the door open.She goes up on scaffolding etc and she's fine.if it's really cold she stays in the Landrover.She's quite happy to lay in the cage and watch people,but spends most of the afternoon asleep!
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Oct 29, 2013 22:16:40 GMT
Wow - well she does well to go on a scaffold, I know many sites where that would be frowned upon, but I guess it may work out OK on the smaller ones
|
|
|
Post by Etienne Le Croq on Oct 29, 2013 22:27:55 GMT
I don't do site work anymore only private houses etc,so not the hysterical health and safety regimes!
|
|
|
Post by Deleted on Oct 29, 2013 23:44:16 GMT
Can't really beat a mongrel if you have a good idea of it's parentage and so can research into it's breed histories - mongrels tend not to have the common problems associated with breeds (eg hip problems, eye probs, epilepsy etc) and benefit from hybrid vigour. In Rigg's case he seems to have inherited all the best bits of his various breeds (collie / staffie / labrador (not 100% sure but guess based on Rigg's appetite, nose skills, and love of water) but I did do a lot of reading about Staffies when I got him as I didn't know anything about them, and so was prepared for a strong fit dog, willing to please, great with people but who would need firm handling to curb his "enthusiasm". Diesel has that same "enthusiasm" and needs the same firm handling.
I'd look for something like I suggested for Carol - maybe a Border Terrier or Border / Lakeland. They are tough little dogs who enjoy a good walk etc but are not as constantly energetic as other working breeds. They could also cope well in cold weather - that's what Diesel is going to struggle with I suspect, his hair is only about 1cm long and he's almost bald in places, so he's going to have to toughen up and will need a coat when in the van in bad winter weather. So although a hairy dog is exasperating in terms of shedding, it does mean that it'll cope much better living in a van in cold weather.
I wouldn't get something which is too long or rough coated though, as it'll be difficult to keep its coat clean, untangled and flea free in the van. Again something with a similar coat to a Border Terrier would be ideal - enough hair to keep it warm in winter but not long enough to need a lot of care.
Next time I see you, I'll lend you long-term my dog breed book - hundreds of breeds - and you have a couple of years at least to look through it and make a short list of maybe half a dozen breeds. Then start keeping an eye open for popular crosses of those breeds, talk to owners, visit the breed stands at Crufts etc. Try dog sitting for someone and see how you get on. Maybe you could offer to spend a couple of hours a week / fortnight at a dog rescue centre, helping to walk the dogs, so that you get to see lots of different dogs.
It's good that you're giving it some thought beforehand. The hardest thing will be to turn away the first or second dog you see, and not to give in and take it if not 100% sure. I did all the wrong things with my first dog, and I hadn't even been intending getting Rigg (the third dog) - I just went to have a look to see what a collie / staffie would look like and he ended up coming home with me. It's really hard to be firm and to resist pleading puppy eyes, so learn to harden your heart a bit if possible!
Socially a not very well trained terrier sized dog is (sadly) more acceptable than a larger well trained dog, simply because of it's size. Terrier sized dogs often get away with being in pubs, some cafes etc because they will sit under the table / chair, whereas a larger Rigg-sized dog, even if well behaved, gets in the way, and some people are wary just because of the size. And if there's other dogs around and you sense trouble, you can pick up a terrier and just walk away out of the situation.
Ellisboy's bichon frise sounds fab. They are just a bit too fluffy for my liking but then I suppose you could get it trimmed regularly.
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Oct 30, 2013 0:08:44 GMT
Thanks for all the advice from everyone, and thanks for the offer of the book, Jess It would not be something I would undertake lightly as I wouldn't want to cause distress to the wrong dog. I was proud my cats were all very happy cats and lived to very old ages, but I miss them and would like to get a dog at some stage. I'm just not sure about a dog living in the van. I think I have space for a removable kennel in front of the passenger seat, and it would be able to sit in the cab, the seat inside the sliding door and on the bed so it would have plenty of nooks and crannies to feel safe in if it were the right size. I did like the French basset - that's exactly the right size and temperament but appreciate they have hunting wishes. I'm not so sure about a rescue dog as I can never be sure what history it has, or if has been mistreated and also it may be difficult to train when older too. I like the idea of a mongrel puppy but then where to go to get one? And how to know it has been properly reared. And how to be sure of its parentage so it doesn't grow into something which is wrong for me or the van? That's why I think a pedigree may be better as the most of the breeders seem to be very competent I like the Bichon Frise too - though maybe it will be a little small and also worried about the coat and its maintenance - also about its nature to want to do everything with its owner. Being on my own, I may need to leave the dog for two or three hours here and there, and wouldn't want to upset one that frets if it gets left out for a short period of time.
|
|
|
Post by Is it spring yet, dormouse? on Oct 30, 2013 8:45:43 GMT
If you want a breed dog, I love schnauzers. They come in 3 sizes too! The miniature is no good for outdoor living; a standard would be ideal. Intelligent, but pretty strong-willed and real characters, so need very good training from the off. SchnauzersI have a liking of most terriers, but only if they're well trained. Border terriers are extremely sociable dogs and don't like to be on their own. Otherwise I'd go for a Heinz 57. Life: unfinished threads in a never-ending tapestry
|
|
|
Post by Is it spring yet, dormouse? on Oct 30, 2013 8:54:26 GMT
I've just refreshed my memory about Schnauzers, or Wire-haired Pinschers as they used to be known as.
They're not terriers, btw.
I've known 2 schnauzers in my life (not mine!) and have loved them ever since. If I ever did get a dog (which I definitely won't!), this would be the breed for me.
Life: unfinished threads in a never-ending tapestry
|
|
|
Post by Deleted on Oct 30, 2013 11:10:41 GMT
Thanks for all the advice from everyone, and thanks for the offer of the book, Jess It would not be something I would undertake lightly as I wouldn't want to cause distress to the wrong dog. I was proud my cats were all very happy cats and lived to very old ages, but I miss them and would like to get a dog at some stage. I'm just not sure about a dog living in the van. I think I have space for a removable kennel in front of the passenger seat, and it would be able to sit in the cab, the seat inside the sliding door and on the bed so it would have plenty of nooks and crannies to feel safe in if it were the right size. I did like the French basset - that's exactly the right size and temperament but appreciate they have hunting wishes. I'm not so sure about a rescue dog as I can never be sure what history it has, or if has been mistreated and also it may be difficult to train when older too. I like the idea of a mongrel puppy but then where to go to get one? And how to know it has been properly reared. And how to be sure of its parentage so it doesn't grow into something which is wrong for me or the van? That's why I think a pedigree may be better as the most of the breeders seem to be very competent I like the Bichon Frise too - though maybe it will be a little small and also worried about the coat and its maintenance - also about its nature to want to do everything with its owner. Being on my own, I may need to leave the dog for two or three hours here and there, and wouldn't want to upset one that frets if it gets left out for a short period of time. I would definitely recommend getting involved with a rescue centre as often pregnant bitches will come in or bitches with pups and you will get to see the pups and observe them for a few weeks, as a volunteer, which gives an opportunity to select the one which you take to. And as a volunteer, you'd probably get first refusal. And you'd have loads of advice and support and knowledge to help you too. Don't believe all breeders are competent! There's no guarantees just because they are charging £500+ for a pup. Do plenty of research and talk to other people for recommendations and always go and visit where they are being brought up - a decent breeder will expect you to do that and will be happy to show you the mother etc. Don't forget that a pedigree will incur additional charges for things such as pet insurance - the premium for a mongrel is much less than for a pedigree and some pedigrees will mean higher premiums because of known health problems with certain breeds, or that condition may be excluded from the insurance. And you may need to pay for extra vet bills to get the dog hip scored or eye tested etc. I would recommend a first cross of 2 breeds which you are familiar with - then you have a good idea of what you are getting in terms of size, character, exercise needs etc. I don't know anything about them but off the top of my head, I think Cockerpoos might be worth looking at, about the right sort of size, both reasonably intelligent and trainable breeds, and the poodle in it means it doesn't shed (or not as bad as most dogs). The only problem with Cockerpoos is that they have become a fashionable cross and so might have been bred just for the money. Because of living in the van, I do think you'd be better getting a pup rather than an older dog as that way it won't already be used to living in a house and the younger the dog, the easier it will be to adjust to a completely different lifestyle. If you get any puppy at around 8 weeks, it doesn't matter too much about how it's been reared at that age as the crucial age for socialisation is 6 - 14 weeks - that's the time when you want to expose it to as many other dogs / cats / bunnies / being left alone / loud noises / other potentially scary things so that hopefully it will then grow up not nervous of such things as an adult (it's usually fear which causes most aggressive behaviour). As you know I firmly believe in using a cage (some people prefer to call them crates) but with a small dog, you could use a car seat harness so it can sit on the passenger seat whilst travelling, or a small cage might even sit on the passenger seat secured with the seat belt, and my guess is that at night time the dog would probably be on your bed :-) For a small dog, the floor underneath your table would be a good place for it's bed - somewhere it can go out of the way whilst you are cooking etc. Dogs do like a place which resembles a den and underneath furniture usually works well. Anxiety separation is the biggest problem I now have with Diesel and on researching it, it appears this is quite common in Staffies as they bond very closely with their owner. There are ways of reducing it/ controlling it which I'm using at the moment, but it's difficult when you are with the dog 100%. I'm getting there with him but, bless him, he only has about half the brain that Rigg has, so I'm having to learn a bit of patience and lower my expectations ;-)
My best advice is to use the next few years wisely in doing lots of research, talking to lots of van living dog owners, meeting as many different smaller breeds as possible. You'll have a lot of fun and will learn loads. Read loads of books, starting with The Dog Listener by Jan Fennell, and watch Cesar Milan programmes on YouTube. I firmly believe (as per Cesar Milan) that many problems with dogs are a result of too much affection and not enough exercise and discipline. Tire a dog out, give it rules and make sure it obeys them, and only give it attention when it earns it and not when it demands it, and you'll end up with a decent dog (IMHO). That's what I'm trying to do with Diesel... but it's easier said than done :-O
|
|
|
Post by wildman on Nov 3, 2013 11:23:33 GMT
Anything stuffed and on wheels!!!!!!! :dog:
|
|
|
Post by stonedaddy on Nov 13, 2013 18:22:09 GMT
Don't rule a retired greyhound out Vern. I have never owned one but contrary to belief I believe they don't like to much exercise and love to sleep all day long. There are loads needing good homes has they soon get neglected and discarded if of no further use. They may be a bit big for the van though. If you fancy that sort there is always his wee brother the whippet which is a smaller version. Like Jess says you can't go far wrong with a mongrel as I have had very little trouble with Kaiser bar for him being very boisterous. Jose is quite well behaved to but can be a bit snappy at times ( can you tell she don't go on the computer ). Anyway I am sure you will enjoy whoever you pick. .... Tom ....
|
|
|
Post by robmac on Nov 13, 2013 18:27:16 GMT
She's behind you!!
|
|
|
Post by stonedaddy on Nov 13, 2013 23:25:07 GMT
Yikes you was nearly right she had just brought me a cuppa so was a close thing as she usually as a quick look at what is on screen . .... Tom ....
|
|
|
Post by Firefox on Nov 14, 2013 11:27:20 GMT
Yes I think it would have to be a Whippet for my size of van!
|
|
|
Post by stonedaddy on Nov 14, 2013 18:06:09 GMT
Yes I think it would have to be a Whippet for my size of van! Well Vern you like the wild side of wild camping and Whippets are fantastic rabbiters, so you will always have a ready meal available for the BBQ. I have changed my mind about mongrels being good because Kaiser as just eaten my micro switches I have fitted to replace the changeover relay for the second time grrrrrrrrr .... .... Tom ....
|
|
|
Post by cardmaker on Nov 28, 2013 17:25:38 GMT
I want one of these - they had smaller versions in Yarmouth for 4.99 and I was tempted
|
|
|
Post by Dr Latex on Nov 28, 2013 22:35:41 GMT
I'm looking for small to medium breed generally known for good temperament. According to the National Sheep Association three of the breeds best adapted to strapping to the back of your van would be the Clun Forest......."The body has a strong muscular neck carried high from fine shoulders, lengthy good back, deep rib, strong loin, good hock and a deep and well rounded rear." The Hampshire Down............"Body deep and symmetrical with ribs well sprung, broad, straight back, flat loins, wide rump and deep heavily muscled hind legs and breast. Legs being strongly jointed and powerful are set well apart." And of course the ever reliable British Milk Sheep..........." The ewe is naturally prolific and is noted for its quiet temperament which is important in the management of high performance sheep,..... particularly the roomy pelvic area......" The association goes on to recommend that only the female of these breeds be kept for recreational use Vern as the rams tend to cost the owners quite a bit in panel beating fees due to their general hornyness. Er....Oh, Ah, this is a thread about dogs isn't it? Sorry!
|
|
|
Post by edina on Nov 30, 2013 6:05:40 GMT
I'm looking for small to medium breed generally known for good temperament. One that enjoys walks and the outdoor life but does not demand constant exercise. Slightly too large perhaps, but seem to like the outdoor life.
|
|