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What kind of dog should I get2007-11-25 2:53:00

Also our golden retriever though very friendly with anyone friendly too her immediately senses hostility and fear, and reacts appropriately, so is a good guard dog in that sense, though someone not hostile and unafraid could probably clean us out if we weren't at home.

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Get a dalmatian. I have a dalmatian and there is never a worry with her around my guinea pigs. I had a rabbit too which she adored. My other dalmatain (RIP) was the same. Most dallies are gentle with other animals. They are great for kids too (I was brought up with one from the age of 4). We have found dalmatians to be soppy, people-loving, energetic-but-gentle dogs. Lots of people love seeing Bekha with us. Dallies get a lot of attention and we often have people stop us and chat with us about her. As for guarding - my dog only ever barks when she thinks a stranger is at the door or trying to get in. Other than that she never barks. Great for guarding!

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The best book I've seen on the topic of selecting a dog is "The Right Dog for You" by Daniel Tortora. You have to answer quite a few questions which will establish exactly the qualities you want. There are then several charts with the various breeds of dogs ranked according to opposite ends of a scale, such as friendly to everyone vs one-man dogs, and by size. You will end up with a list of breeds that fullfils your needs. You then need to research the breeds to find which appeal to you most. After that, contact breeders and find out the various pluses and minuses of each breed, as well as qualities that may be particular to each breeder's line.