What Kind of Dog to Get?

I've always been a big fan of larger sized dogs like the ones you are mentioning. Growing up I had a Airdale Terrier and cats. Airdale Terriers are beautiful great dogs. I also have had a Greyhound and cats. Greyhounds are also fantastic dogs. Both are pretty non aggressive to anything. The only thing with greyhounds is that you'd have to have a decent fenced in backyard for them to run around in. You can't adopt them otherwise usually. I've also always wanted an American Eskimo because I just think they're pretty white dogs. I'd say check the AKC.org (American Kennel Club) but they don't have much info about the dogs temperament. You could try http://pets.yahoo.com/dogs/breed-guide/ they have a bit about the temperament. Usually a "fun loving" dog is one that would get along with your cats whereas one that is "possessive" or like German shephards who are described as "Companion" dogs...you might think twice about them being an all sorts of animal lovin' dog.

I like both labs and goldens. Quite easily trained outgoing dogs. I'd say labs are a bit better at protecting if that's what you want, but in general both goldens and labs will give warning barks (and that's probably all you can count on them doing) so it's a matter of preference. Personally I prefer goldens because I don't like the labs' constant shedding with hair impossible to get out. Goldens shed a lot as well of course but a golden's hair is much easier to remove. If you get a puppy, keep in mind that both those breeds are typically fairly hyperactive when young, taking years to mature and needing a lot of exercise to not get destructive. There's a lot of work and time involved with having a puppy, and if you got a full-time job then it's quite a puzzle to figure out how to best housetrain. There are adult dogs in shelters and breed rescues that get along well with cats, so if you aren't sure you have enough time for a puppy then please reconsider an adult dog.

It really does sound like you are right on track. A Retriever or a Lab would be two of the best breeds to get if you want one to get along with other animals. You also definitely want to get a puppy. If you get an older puppy or an adult, you don't know what they have been through and how they will react to your home and cats.

I have had many different types of breeds, large and small, over the years. The labs that I have had all variety in their temperment. I did have a mix between a golden retriever and an irish setter that was the best, sweetest large dog ever. As far as the debate of getting a puppy versus a grown dog, I've done both. In both situations I have run into problems with the dogs getting a long with cats and other animals. It all boils down to the particular dog and their personality. Good luck.

I have a white laborador who is a medium to large dog and he is the best for protection and getting along with people and animals. Definitely get a puppy, train him the way you want him. It is much easier on you than one that is already grown and set in his ways. Laboradors are friendly, laid back and alert. I adore mine and he gets along with my new dog who is a Jack Russell Terrior - also believe it or not, a very good watch dog and protector. sunnywaters

I think that 's very good choise.They are really smart dogs and very sensitive. And plus great for kids.

You should definatly save someone from a shelter!! They sometimes know the background of the animals and can help find a 'cat-friendly' doggie.

I am in the process of getting a labradoodle, because it is big enough to be a guard dog, not mean, and no shedding too much. My son is eight and he loves to have a dog. I don't want an aggressive dog either, just one that barks to let me know if anyone is coming to the house or yard. Wish you luck on finding your best friend!

I have a yellow labrador retriever and he is a wonderful dog and a great protector. I would recommend this type of dog because my lab does a great job at letting me know if there is someone at my door. I love that because he scares the crap out of people when they are standing at the door,especially when there are people trying to sell me stuff that I do not want. I love that he can be my "ears" for me when I'm sleeping. He is has such a kind and loving personality and so good around kids and people. If you get a puppy just be patient with them because they do like to chew things,but if you have plenty of toys for them to play with and consistently work on disciplining them, they will eventually learn. One other friendly suggestion is to crate train your puppy. He/she will learn after a few times of having an accident in their crate and that they have to sit in their mess. They really learn quick to hold it till they are let outside. Please try to adopt a puppy from the Humane Society or a rescue shelter if you can, there are so many dogs and puppies that need a home. I hope that all this information helps.

I have one Siberean Husky, they are amazing dogs. Doesn't bark all the time, realy smart, beatifull animals. But their big, and looks like a wolf so most of the people that don't know them, are afraid. While ge along with outher animals, well if it's a male he wont like to see any other male (even if it's from other kind, like a cat), femels he won't do anything, but males...