Hello all,
I know there are multiple threads asking for advice on dog breeds (and i think i have read them all!), but i'm still left with some questions that i'd appreciate any advice/experiences on.
So we are family of four - children are 5 and 7. I have always wanted a dog for our family but only now i feel ready to make the commitment as i'll be the main care giver. I work three days week so we would need a dog walker for those days during working hours. We are quite "outdoorsy" as a family and like camping, hiking etc etc so are out in the wilds quite a bit and i'm not put off by walking a dog (I walk a great deal by myself now just for enjoyment :-)) We live in the suburbs but have large parks within walking distance for daily walks and often are in the countryside at weekends.
Breed wise, my husband doesn't like small dogs, so i'm ruling them out, he also isn't keen on dogs that shed or drool a lot but he does likes intelligent dogs with a bit of a presence (yep - he's the fussy one!).
Given that info, anyone got any ideas? Would consider a larger dog - the Great Swiss being one of them - but i'm a bit concerned about the picking up the poo situation, and also given their size I'd imagine they are not as easy to take out and about if need be to shops/cafes etc? Also when my kids are older - is it feasible to think they could walk a big dog or is that a no-no?
I guess another question would be is a medium sized dog much more practical on a day to day basis...?
Would really appreciate any ideas :-)