I grew up with dogs (westies, a shih tzu and German shepherds, so a range of breeds!) and DH and I had two rescue dogs (lurcher and collie cross) until the last one died of old age five years ago. Without wishing to seem arrogant I would class myself as very knowledgeable about dogs - I do a lot of reading up, dog behaviour and training being one of my pet passions. We haven’t been in a position to own a dog due to work commitments since our last boy died, but I will be starting a new job where I can WFH soon so the time might be coming (I will give myself time to bed into my new job first). I want a puppy from a decent breeder so I know there is likely to be a long waiting list, and I’m prepared to do lots of searching and waiting for the right puppy. I only want a pup from health tested parents and won’t be going near Pets4Homes etc.
Here’s our situation the dog will need to fit into:
We have DCs aged 8 and 10 - very responsible and love animals but obviously need a breed that is a good family dog
Two cats (they will be able to escape from the puppy upstairs)
Living room and kitchen are on the first floor of the house, so needs to be a breed that can cope with going up and down stairs (which rules out a Great Dane, sadly, as I love them)
Dog will go for at least three walks a day; two about half an hour, one about an hour, and longer at the weekends
I am prepared to do lots of obedience training and know how to do this
We live very near open countryside so lots of lovely walks available but dog will need good recall (obviously I will work on this but I wouldn’t be interested in a husky or similar!)
Dog will be left on its own for 3-4 hours a couple of times a week ultimately, no more than that
Would prefer medium-large rather than a small breed (but there is the stairs issue)
Would prefer something that isn’t going to shed massively but don’t mind having to take to the groomers and do some maintenance at home too.
Our breed shortlist so far:
Standard poodle - my first choice. I love them. DH isn’t convinced by the hairstyles though, even though I’ve told him it doesn’t have to have pom-poms.
Springer spaniel - DH’s first choice. I also love them but am worried might be reactive to the cats and overly manic.
Dalmatian - would be happy to give it the exercise it needs, more worried the stairs might be an issue and I know they shed a lot.
Golden retriever or Labrador - same concerns as Dalmatian re stairs and shedding.
What do you think? Any other suggestions? I adore GSDs and they were my favourites growing up but I would be too worried about all the potential issues the breed has these days, I think, to get one. I will categorically not be getting any form of poodle cross. We are only in the early stages of considering this so there is plenty of time, but I want to narrow the breed choice down so I can start looking at breeders and getting on waiting lists. Much as my heart says rescue, I want a puppy this time, so it does need to be a breeder. All suggestions appreciated! Thank you!