What kind of dog is best for us?

[Pa Uchok]

Hello everyone,

I've seen plenty of threads about best Ts for newbies, so how about the same thread but for dogs? Now, I know enough to know that my family's situation is crucial, here, and we have some preferences as well. Note that we have never had dogs before, so that is probably the key criterion: they should be good for first-time owners. Other than that, here's what we are looking for:

• playful and affectionate companion for 11 year old autistic girl
• easy to train
• low grooming requirements
• effective guard dog (or, at the very least, with enough physical presence to deter any ne'er-do-wells)
• less prone to drooling

And important information about our circumstances:

• we could offer about an hour's exercise in total every day
• our working patterns are such that there would always be someone at home
• we live in a house rather than an apartment, and have some outdoor space but no high fences
• we have a cat
• based in the UK

My daughter is desperate for a Cockerpoo, but they wouldn't have the protective instinct my wife and I want for her. From my research, and taking the caveat that every animal is an individual, good fits would seem to be smooth collies (rest of the family prefer rough, despite the added grooming requirement), Japanese Spitzes (if you ignore the fact that my elder daughter is not impressed by these), standard Schnauzers or Schnoodles. Oh, and we all adore Samoyeds, but we doubt they would be well-suited to us. Do those seem like reasonable choices? Are there other breeds we should consider as well/instead?

 

[birdonfire]

Dogs are like tarantulas--they're different from one individual to the next within the same breed or not. If they've had an abusive or less than caring owner, their attitude will reflect their care. I always advocate for shelter dogs. It's how I came to appreciate the hunting dogs that so many hunters around me seem to abandon. Hounds are awesome, but they need a responsible and patient owner.

 

[ConstantSorrow]

If you're starting with a puppy - and can therefore properly socialize it - I highly recommend a pit bull.
They're fantastic with kids, if you start with a pup you can socialize any dog aggression out, start training early, and even though they tend to make lousy guard dogs (too friendly) they look intimidating.
The only thing I would add is that they can be stubborn, but how much so depends on the dog.
My pit mix (mostly pit bull, a little boxer) is amazing with children, loves everyone she meets, and is protective of me but not so much of my stuff. She's also a giant cuddlebug and knows near two dozen commands.
I know they get a bad rap but they're truly great family dogs.

 

[Westicles]

Mixed breed or as we call them dumpster dogs. Shelters are full of them and most are great dogs in need of a home.

 

[Pa Uchok]

Thanks for the answers so far. I've got to say, I'm really drawn to the idea of a shelter dog - there's too many of the poor creatures in there anyway, and we've got a loving home waiting for one. But there's a big but. I've had strong advice that a rescue dog is not a great option for a first-time owner: they're likely to have challenging abandonment issues and behavioural issues, and I'd hate to make those worse if we found we couldn't deal with them, and had to give the dog up for a second time.

I'm also influenced by one friend whose kids didn't bond with the adult dog they adopted - we really want a companion animal for our younger daughter, and she's much more likely to bond with a pup, we think, and there won't be many of them in rescues.

I highly recommend a pit bull.

I'm guessing you mean American Pit Bull, right? I don't know how many of those there are on this side of the pond. They might even be banned under UK legislation.

 

[ConstantSorrow]

I'm guessing you mean American Pit Bull, right? I don't know how many of those there are on this side of the pond. They might even be banned under UK legislation.

It actually covers the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Terrier.

 

[Westicles]

Thanks for the answers so far. I've got to say, I'm really drawn to the idea of a shelter dog - there's too many of the poor creatures in there anyway, and we've got a loving home waiting for one. But there's a big but. I've had strong advice that a rescue dog is not a great option for a first-time owner: they're likely to have challenging abandonment issues and behavioural issues, and I'd hate to make those worse if we found we couldn't deal with them, and had to give the dog up for a second time.

I'm also influenced by one friend whose kids didn't bond with the adult dog they adopted - we really want a companion animal for our younger daughter, and she's much more likely to bond with a pup, we think, and there won't be many of them in rescues.


I'm guessing you mean American Pit Bull, right? I don't know how many of those there are on this side of the pond. They might even be banned under UK legislation.

Actually, that's a big misconception. Most shelter dogs don't have any issues whatsoever

 

[Ian14]

It actually covers the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Terrier.

Staffies are not banned u der the Dangerous Dogs Act. It also does not state the pitbulls as a specific breed are banned. It bans the ownership, breeding and sale/gifting of pitbull TYPES. Whether a dog is of type or not is dependant entirely on its physical appearance.

Thanks for the answers so far. I've got to say, I'm really drawn to the idea of a shelter dog - there's too many of the poor creatures in there anyway, and we've got a loving home waiting for one. But there's a big but. I've had strong advice that a rescue dog is not a great option for a first-time owner: they're likely to have challenging abandonment issues and behavioural issues, and I'd hate to make those worse if we found we couldn't deal with them, and had to give the dog up for a second time.

I'm also influenced by one friend whose kids didn't bond with the adult dog they adopted - we really want a companion animal for our younger daughter, and she's much more likely to bond with a pup, we think, and there won't be many of them in rescues.


I'm guessing you mean American Pit Bull, right? I don't know how many of those there are on this side of the pond. They might even be banned under UK legislation.

I'm taking a guess here, but you've not owned a dog before have you?
Pits have been banned here since 1991!
Owning a guarding breed is a HUGE commitment and needs a lot of hard work.
I'm a little worried that you seem to want a guard dog for an autistic 11 year old. That doesn't sound especially responsible.
Staffies are excellent with children, and would fit your list of requirements, but will need a firm upbringing.
Puppies are hard work in any case. Guarding breeds have even more challenges.

 

[ConstantSorrow]

Staffies are not banned u der the Dangerous Dogs Act. It also does not state the pitbulls as a specific breed are banned. It bans the ownership, breeding and sale/gifting of pitbull TYPES. Whether a dog is of type or not is dependant entirely on its physical appearance.

Did not know that. Seems unfair but.....ok then.

 

[Pa Uchok]

I'm taking a guess here, but you've not owned a dog before have you?

Does it show? No, I haven't, and that's why I'm trying to get as many opinions as possible. This will be a big commitment for the whole family, if we go ahead, and I don't want to rush into it.

Owning a guarding breed is a HUGE commitment and needs a lot of hard work.
I'm a little worried that you seem to want a guard dog for an autistic 11 year old. That doesn't sound especially responsible.

I can see how it might come across that way, but I certainly don't want to put my own child in danger from her pet. There's no point trying to keep her safe from strangers if her companion animal is itself a threat... I suppose a better way of putting it would be that, if nothing else, I'd like a dog for her that would act as a visual deterrent to anyone considering trying it on. But the key criterion is that the dog should be an excellent companion for her. I take the point about guarding breeds representing an even bigger commitment.

Staffies are excellent with children, and would fit your list of requirements, but will need a firm upbringing.

Interesting, thank you - I'll look into them. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

 

[Ian14]

Does it show? No, I haven't, and that's why I'm trying to get as many opinions as possible. This will be a big commitment for the whole family, if we go ahead, and I don't want to rush into it.

I can see how it might come across that way, but I certainly don't want to put my own child in danger from her pet. There's no point trying to keep her safe from strangers if her companion animal is itself a threat... I suppose a better way of putting it would be that, if nothing else, I'd like a dog for her that would act as a visual deterrent to anyone considering trying it on. But the key criterion is that the dog should be an excellent companion for her. I take the point about guarding breeds representing an even bigger commitment.

Interesting, thank you - I'll look into them. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

Having read the above, honestly, a staffie is the best option.
Mine was around 16 when he passed. Absolutely adored children and I can honestly say I trusted him with any child. I'm fairly certain if he was assessed he would have been deemed Pit Bull type.
Currently I am fostering a seized rottweiler puppy as part of a big animal cruelty and dangerous dogs investigation . At 6 months old she is a real challenge with behaviour. As a traditional guarding breed, you would expect that she would be naturally protective to her family but that really isn't the case. That comes with extensive training, time, and hard work. Plus bruises, cuts, and real challenging behaviour.
There are a number of staffie rescues in the UK, I would try them first. A well rounded, properly socialised Staff is what you need.
They aren't known as nanny dogs for nothing.
As an aside, it comes across as if you want a dog to do your job. Your child is autistic, that's for YOU to manage, not to get a dog to do the job for you

 

[Pa Uchok]

Having read the above, honestly, a staffie is the best option.
Mine was around 16 when he passed. Absolutely adored children and I can honestly say I trusted him with any child. I'm fairly certain if he was assessed he would have been deemed Pit Bull type.
Currently I am fostering a seized rottweiler puppy as part of a big animal cruelty and dangerous dogs investigation . At 6 months old she is a real challenge with behaviour. As a traditional guarding breed, you would expect that she would be naturally protective to her family but that really isn't the case. That comes with extensive training, time, and hard work. Plus bruises, cuts, and real challenging behaviour.
There are a number of staffie rescues in the UK, I would try them first. A well rounded, properly socialised Staff is what you need.
They aren't known as nanny dogs for nothing.

That's a well-founded argument. You clearly know what you are talking about when it comes to challenging dogs, and I appreciate you sharing those insights.

As an aside, it comes across as if you want a dog to do your job. Your child is autistic, that's for YOU to manage, not to get a dog to do the job for you

However, this is way out of line. You have absolutely no idea what my wife and I have done and continue to do in order to support our child(ren), or the wider circumstances we are in. On this aspect, I do know what I am talking about, and on this aspect you are wrong.

 

[The Snark]

You already defined the dog.

• playful and affectionate companion for 11 year old autistic girl
• easy to train
• low grooming requirements
• effective guard dog (or, at the very least, with enough physical presence to deter any ne'er-do-wells)
• less prone to drooling

And important information about our circumstances:

• we could offer about an hour's exercise in total every day
• our working patterns are such that there would always be someone at home
• we live in a house rather than an apartment, and have some outdoor space but no high fences
• we have a cat
• based in the UK

Contact a reputable person or part of a group that does comfort dog visitations. It's not the breed of dog but the training they give it. Will help with the Autistic person getting on with the dog. People who do comfort dogs have a list of preferred breeds.
Small dogs prone to bark deter burglars - intruders ten to one over larger ones. Perimeter protection is best served by a well trained dog that knows the boundaries. When it barks, there is a potential intrusion.

 

[Ian14]

That's a well-founded argument. You clearly know what you are talking about when it comes to challenging dogs, and I appreciate you sharing those insights.

However, this is way out of line. You have absolutely no idea what my wife and I have done and continue to do in order to support our child(ren), or the wider circumstances we are in. On this aspect, I do know what I am talking about, and on this aspect you are wrong.

No, you are right. I have no idea what you and your wife do to support your children. And frankly, that's none of my business, nor anyone else's.
And I sincerely apologise if you feel I was way out of line.
However, I am going purely on what you have posted. That is, finding a dog breed to protect your child, who just happens to be autistic.
My point, which I still stand by, is that the safety of your child, autistic or not, is your responsibility, not that of a dog.

 

[JPG]

I got my first dog few months ago and working my ass off to research and train him.
I would probably suggest to not get a very smart dog as a beginner.
I swear he's trolling me everyday...

 

[Pa Uchok]

No, you are right. I have no idea what you and your wife do to support your children. And frankly, that's none of my business, nor anyone else's.
And I sincerely apologise if you feel I was way out of line.
However, I am going purely on what you have posted. That is, finding a dog breed to protect your child, who just happens to be autistic.
My point, which I still stand by, is that the safety of your child, autistic or not, is your responsibility, not that of a dog.

Thanks for the apology. I agree wholeheartedly with your final point, incidentally. I'm just a bit bemused that you seem to have leapt to the conclusion that it's a binary situation for me; that we'll outsource everything to the dog so that we can abdicate our own responsibility, rather than the dog being just one part of the whole suite of things we do to care for and protect our children.

 

[The Snark]

@Pa Uchok Having given it some thought. A general rule in SE Asia is to avoid the local domesticated versions of our wild dogs, as well as Chow or Akita. They all have dingo in their ancestry and have the potential to be unpredictably moody. If one comes your way I'd suggest observing the animal for several days before committing yourself. Lurking inside most of our local dogs is a primal monster with some very un-dog like traits. A very calm and placid Thai dog in our village that had been a part of the scenery for years attacked a girl on a bicycle for no apparent reason. He then ran off and at best guess reverted to a wild animal.

 

[Pa Uchok]

@Pa Uchok Having given it some thought. A general rule in SE Asia is to avoid the local domesticated versions of our wild dogs, as well as Chow or Akita. They all have dingo in their ancestry and have the potential to be unpredictably moody. If one comes your way I'd suggest observing the animal for several days before committing yourself. Lurking inside most of our local dogs is a primal monster with some very un-dog like traits. A very calm and placid Thai dog in our village that had been a part of the scenery for years attacked a girl on a bicycle for no apparent reason. He then ran off and at best guess reverted to a wild animal.

Thank you. Mind you, I must have misled you with the location that used to be in my profile. I'm no longer in SE Asia: my work dried up due to the recent Covid outbreak in Vietnam, and we've come back home to the UK. I like the physical appearance of the Chow, but there's no way I'd actually want to take on the responsibility of owning one...

 

[The Snark]

I'm no longer in SE Asia: my work dried up due to the recent Covid outbreak in Vietnam, and we've come back home to the UK

I suggest contacting people who work extensively with training dogs. The best advice I've received is from people who train comfort dogs. The dogs to shy away from are the popular, and often inbreds. Spitzes for example, and the worst of the worst, anything poodle. Cockapoos are notorious yap monsters.
Two memorable comfort dogs I encountered were ... hilarious? One a mixed with Shelty, AKA the bed worm. She would ever so gently get on the bed at the foot and slowly work her way to the head where she would snuggle tight to the patient and fall asleep. The other an old English sheep dog St. Bernard cross. A gigantic hairball tall enough to put her head on the patients pillow while standing on the floor.

 

[Ian14]

Thanks for the apology. I agree wholeheartedly with your final point, incidentally. I'm just a bit bemused that you seem to have leapt to the conclusion that it's a binary situation for me; that we'll outsource everything to the dog so that we can abdicate our own responsibility, rather than the dog being just one part of the whole suite of things we do to care for and protect our children.

It was the way you worded your post, that's all.
As you are back in the UK, be prepared to pay stupid money for a puppy of any breed.
In my case, rottweilers, pre Covid, were around £500 for a pure KC registered pup. Now, you are looking at around £3000.
Even staffies. Pre covid, £50 a pup, often free to a good home. Now? £1500+.