Quote Originally Posted by Reinz View Post
Sorry I forgot to mention about the German SH. One track mind! Always on the hunt! I live where there are rabbits in my yards and I have lots of birds in the shrubs and trees. That dog will NOT stop to eat or drink or even play with my dog. He's hunting 24/7! And good at it. When that tail wiggles or he points then he has struck gold!

So if you are hiking you will have to keep a constant eye out. On the other hand he won't go running off to visit other people.

also

I overlooked Huskies. I raised Huskies and Malamutes for 20 years. They can be leash trained. I agree with GoingPostal, very difficult to train off leash. Especially in wide open areas. All of mine took every opportunity to run off for a site see when given the chance.

And when shedding season starts, yes, season! From April-early July in Texas you can brush the equivalent of a dead animal off a Husky a few times a week.
Is there a way to train them so that behavior is easily or somewhat easily contained? I'd rather them not go after an animal whenever we're out and about haha.
Are Huskies and Malamutes behavior very similar? And is the shedding season for both too (yes probably lol).

Quote Originally Posted by JoshSloane View Post
Without hesitation I have to say that Labrador retrievers are by FAR the most versatile outdoorsman and family dog in one. My black lab Rocky is unbelievable in any outdoor or home scenario. He is a stone cold efficient retriever, perfect off leash in the field, and will retrieve ANY object out of water and land faithfully all day. He has camped, hiked and backpacked every condition from 14,000+ foot peaks to long desert hikes. Their undercoat keeps them warm while swimming in cold water, and dries quickly once back on land. Aside from performing in the field, Rocky, and labs in general, love to be part of the family unit. Rocky is affectionate and loving, always by my side or in contact with me. These dogs are great with kids, usually very friendly with other animals, and adapt well to most situations. Even though my pup is a big baby when at home, he still guards the house, issuing a warning bark to approaching people. Labs are tolerant and loyal, given the time and attention they deserve, they will love you a lifetime. Just like most dogs, they do shed. I don't find it overwhelming at all, but it is present. Once caveat though is that most labs are ALWAYS hungry. They have a major food drive, and can gain weight easily if allowed to eat freely.
Labs were my main choice at first since I heard so many good things about them and that's what I'll probably lean to for a first dog if I'm not comfortable yet when it comes to training other dogs with stronger drives. And thanks for the input about the hiking and such, I just really want a friend that could go with me whenever and will just be there for me in general haha.