:-( Sadly our fish-breathy mongrel died recently, aged seventeen. Our home seems empty and hairless and all too un-fishy. However, we are considering getting a new dog (mostly due to kids). We have visited out local rescues, but due to my toddler, aged 18 months, there has been nothing suitable at all. These are the breeds we're looking into: rottweiler dobermann newfoundland greyhound/lurcher (or a rescue, but nothing suitable has popped up). I don't think we will get one immediately but I like to be organised and prepared. I would like advice on this Remember, we are looking for a loyal, laid-back, docile dog that will manage to co-exist with my kids. I have seen dobermanns and rottweilers behaving lovely with babies and know that if they were puppies then they would be okay. Perhaps they could look slightly intimidating, hence the rottie and dobe. We don't want to be approached when walking at night!
Why not contact the breed specific rescues? Have a look on Fife Rottweiler rescue site - at Kayla - 11 month old rotti used to living with children and is good with other dogs. She sounds lovely having said that, if you want laid back and docile a greyhound would probably be a good choice.
Our rotti is from a rescue, he's amazing with kids (a 2 yo and 6mth old). There seemed to be a lot around the rescues here, I think maybe some people get them because they want a dog that's aggressive and scary and then abuse and/or dump them when they're not.
I know a young Dobe isnt exactly laid back and docile. Loyal, affectionate, playful and protective, yes. My dobe is pretty laid back at home and people call him docile but he gets plenty exercise. Usually 1-2 hours a day plus some and plenty play. Without that then he would not be laid back. Greyhounds are much more laid back, and rotts probably just a bit more relaxed than a dobe. Then there is always the exception to the rule in every breed. I think the suggestion to contact breed rescues is a good one. They will know their breed inside out and they will help you know which of the breeds is most suitable and which of the dogs in their care is most likley to fit in with your household. Plus you would probably get ongoing support if you needed it later.
I think Max is one handsome lad (alas, there's no room at the Inn): http://fiferottweilerrescue.co.uk/forums/viewforum.php?f=17 Greyhounds galore: http://www.greyhoundrescuefife.com/ In the spirit of location, location, location, my wildcard: http://www.german-shepherd-rescue-scotland.org.uk/dogs_in_need.php Good luck with your search.
