Breed suggestions?

[HypoPita]

Hey there all. After a year of living on my own in an apartment for school, away from my puppy, I think it may be time to start considering the possibility of getting a dog. I know a few types of dog that I really love, but I have some special considerations that I'm sure you guys could help shed some light on, though keep in mind I won't be getting one right away. I'm not too worried about a breed that is "hard to train" because this will not be my first dog. Prior dogs were a massive Siberian husky, 130lb german shepard, and my current runt of a german shepard. I understand what is involved for having a well trained dog.

I live a relatively active life (new places, new things, and will be jogging after my surgery), and would like an animal that would enjoy going for walks or exploring. On the flip side, I also live in a large studio apartment in Chicago, right next to a huge park and the beach. People walk their dogs there all the time, so being able to play nicely with others is important to me.

Also dogs that could be labeled a "pit bull" are pretty much illegal here via anything short of an actual law (ones that look sorta like it are fine, I'm sure). Apartments pretty much universally prohibit them. I really don't care for small dogs much at all, I would say the cut off, if absolutely necessary is ~50lbs. Preferably though a medium to large breed.

Intelligence would be a key characteristic I am looking for. Nothing I am less fond of than a "slow" dog. I love when you can look at and tell there is a thought process going on. Hopefully you know what I mean. The dogs needs for interaction isn't a problem. I am a full-time student. I do not work, and am only at class for 2-3hrs a day tops. There is PLENTY of time to spend with my puppy One that will function as a companion is a must.

You might think, hey, this is pretty easy aside from the room size, but I also have a bit of an allergy to dogs, which greatly varies with the breed. For instance my german shepard sets my skin on fire (just being in the room. my parents let her on the couch and never vaccume it), yet my friends lab/bulldog mix is perfectly finei dont even rubbing all over them. I intend on spending time with whatever breeds I am considering to test my reaction to them. So maybe let me know what animals in your experience set off allergies horribly or not at all.

So a recap since that was kind of long:

- I live in Chicago, in a small apartment, with a large park and beach a block away
- A sturdy dog that can go explore new areas (and car rides! what dog doesn't?!)
- not a toy dog (preferably 50-60lbs+) to me, there is no "that dog is too big, I like it"
- is not dog agressive. there are a LOT of animals around here, and a lot of people. It IS Chicago, after all.
- I will be home a majority of the day, and have plenty of time to let the dog out and walk him/her
- hopefully doesn't shed profusely, and doesn't give much of an allergic reaction. (ill be trying some diff allergy meds out soon)

Some dogs I have loved being around: newfies, roKeep in mind,tweiler, doberman, german shepard, husky, bulldog mixes, boarder collie (no I won't get one lol) aaaaand I think that's about all that I've been around and really liked.

What kind of dogs come to mind? I really appreciate your guys' input, thank you!

[HypoPita]

I just wanted to add that adoption is definitely an option! Also that I'd prefer a dog with a low occurrence of health problems, ie how german shepards have hip displasia.

[Patrick Long]

1 word.


Boxer

[HypoPita]

haha one of the breeds I've been eyeing! thanks for the input!!

edit: btw, adorable pic!!

[Dalishar]

I see your boxer and raise you one shepherd, sir!



Unfortunately that is a constant shed-machine and makes my dad sneeze like crazy, so probably not a good idea if you have terrible allergies.

Ontopic! Do you mind the prey drive / crazy noses of hunting breeds? Springer Spaniels are pretty, and all the ones I've met have been very friendly. My grandma used to have one and he was a completely lazy rug in the house, but perked right up and was ready to romp around as soon as he got outside. The coat needs fairly regular maintenance, however.

[HypoPita]

Dalishar:

I've never seen a picture of a shephard, only german shephards. They are really nice looking animals! I'd love to own one. (I want to have way too many animals, but then again, who on here doesn't? This is multiple animal addiction annonymous isn't it?) However, I'm pretty sure the dander would kill me, being related to the german shephard that kills me. :/

I don't mind prey drive, though it might not be the best in my area. Springer spaniels are great dogs, my friend has one. His Mom is allergic to dogs, hence getting the spaniel, they are really low allergen. It doesn't bother me actually...but the dog doesn't match my personality.



Sofar, I'm really feeling the boxer. I didn't know they got as big as they do, which is a huge plus! What else ya guys n gals got?

ps, why has the banana smilie stopped being animated?

[accidental777]

Neopolitan mastiff??? Just kidding, but they are pretty awesome. Hold one as a puppy and it is likely you won't be able to put it back down. All the wrinkles :-)

[SlitherinSisters]

There's an awesome Doberman Rescue in IL, I'd assume it's not too far from Chicago. We were looking for a Dobie from them, but ended up getting a pup. Dobermans are VERY active dogs and would fit in perfectly with anyone who is very active. Although, I will say they are VERY energetic dogs. If you get the dog from a rescue you will know it's temperament and if it's able to play safely with other dogs. The dobie rescue in IL fosters them in homes with children/pets so they are really good at knowing what the dog is really like. Some insurance companies won't insure you if you have a dobie, so you might have to look into the breed before you consider it.

You've had shepards before so you know what they are like. Irish Setters are awesome. I had a Dalmatian when I was younger. She was VERY active and a very nice dog. She stayed active till we had to put her down at 15 years old for multiple health reasons. Boxers are awesome and Very active. Retrievers are all around awesome dogs. I'm not sure if you're looking for a particular look/attitude.

[ThyTempest]

I second the boxer.