Hi All,
I am just beginning to get my feet wet in a search for a perfect puppy. I've owned shepherds for close to 20 years, so I'm pretty familiar with the breed and bloodlines but I'm looking for some expert advice from those who have more expertise than myself.
I currently own a 7 1/2 YO male working line (unsure which region). Best dog I've ever owned. Love him dearly. I have a 6 year old stepson and my son, who will be 3 in October. Last year, on his 2nd birthday, my son was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. We spent 4 consecutive months in the hospital but my son achieved remission and completed treatment in April. Of course we still continue to go in for monthly check ups and blood work.
My little boy in the past month or so, has become completely enamored with our dog and cat. Our dog Rocky, in particular, brings him endless giggles and so much joy it just warms my heart. I am so proud of Rocky for being so good and gentle with him. However, being from working lines - even at 7 1/2 years old he's still very go, go, go and not the biggest cuddle bug. My son often really just wants to snuggle into his fur and Rocky usually just jumps up and grabs his ball. lol
I discussed getting a puppy for our boys next spring with my husband when my son reaches his "one year off treatment" mark as a way for us to celebrate the occasion. What kind of puppy is the tough part. I love working line shepherds, but I think it may just be too much for our family. I know my boys wouldn't be able to handle the "alligator" phase of puppyhood, and my husband would prefer a calmer dog. I actually thought about a Golden Retriever, but I just love shepherds so much that I think that would be a difficult departure for me. This leaves me at a bit of a loss. I've always wanted a long coat and I'm partial to sables. I'm not a fan of American lines, so that's out even though I know their drive wouldn't be as high.
Can anyone recommend any LC breeders who breed for sound temperament but less drive, more calm dogs? I want my boys to be able to love on this pup without too much blood loss. lol
Thanks all!
I am just beginning to get my feet wet in a search for a perfect puppy. I've owned shepherds for close to 20 years, so I'm pretty familiar with the breed and bloodlines but I'm looking for some expert advice from those who have more expertise than myself.
I currently own a 7 1/2 YO male working line (unsure which region). Best dog I've ever owned. Love him dearly. I have a 6 year old stepson and my son, who will be 3 in October. Last year, on his 2nd birthday, my son was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. We spent 4 consecutive months in the hospital but my son achieved remission and completed treatment in April. Of course we still continue to go in for monthly check ups and blood work.
My little boy in the past month or so, has become completely enamored with our dog and cat. Our dog Rocky, in particular, brings him endless giggles and so much joy it just warms my heart. I am so proud of Rocky for being so good and gentle with him. However, being from working lines - even at 7 1/2 years old he's still very go, go, go and not the biggest cuddle bug. My son often really just wants to snuggle into his fur and Rocky usually just jumps up and grabs his ball. lol
I discussed getting a puppy for our boys next spring with my husband when my son reaches his "one year off treatment" mark as a way for us to celebrate the occasion. What kind of puppy is the tough part. I love working line shepherds, but I think it may just be too much for our family. I know my boys wouldn't be able to handle the "alligator" phase of puppyhood, and my husband would prefer a calmer dog. I actually thought about a Golden Retriever, but I just love shepherds so much that I think that would be a difficult departure for me. This leaves me at a bit of a loss. I've always wanted a long coat and I'm partial to sables. I'm not a fan of American lines, so that's out even though I know their drive wouldn't be as high.
Can anyone recommend any LC breeders who breed for sound temperament but less drive, more calm dogs? I want my boys to be able to love on this pup without too much blood loss. lol
Thanks all!