Lone Hansen wrote:

"

I live with my sister because she's in a wheelchair and she needs
around the clock care. So I would be taking care of the dog.
We have a big house with a HUGE backyard with lots of trees for shade.
But I think I'll seek out a different breed. It wouldn't be fair for
a breed like that to suffer in hot weather. Even taking the dog for
a walk in the summer time would be tough on the dog. She likes beagles
so maybe I'll look into that breed. I dunno, I'll have to do more
research. Thanks for replying.

Nick


- Given your situation I think it would be an idea to choose a breed
that doesn't require a lot of exercise. The German Shepherd is a breed that
needs a LOT of interaction and exercise. I love the breed and have 2 but it
comes with a prize. lots and lots of training, lots and lots of interaction
and walks. The German Shepherd is a breed that is difficult to live with if
it isn't trained properly as it can be dominant and try to take over, also
they will get bored and destructive if not given the proper amount of
exercise that they need. Nor are they a breed that does well with being put
outside, as they need to be with the family. The German Shepherd is a
working breed and like all working breeds they need to work. I think that
you will do best in not getting a working breed as they can be hell on earth
if they are bored.
You will have to look into what amount of interaction you can give the
dog, how much time you can set aside for training, walks play etc and then
pick from there. Perhaps if would be an idea to look into getting an older
dog, as they have gotten over the puppy years and have started to relax and
settle down a bit. Perhaps something like an older lab or Golden will be an
idea for you. There are lot and lots of really nice older dogs in rescues.
Why not call a rescue and have a chat with them. Tell them your situation,
what you are looking for, how much time you are able to give with regards to
training, walks, play etc. That will the rescue something to work on and
they will be able to match you with the dog for you.



Good advice. I would add one thing, though, to the original poster.
You say your sister is in a wheelchair... Have you looked into
acquiring a Support Dog?

Kathleen Hansen
Z-Control Skid Boots
Leg armor for gonzo dogs!
http://webpages.charter.net/dhfm/ZControl.html