[Quack Quack]

Hi, I am currently doing some early research into a pedigreed dog to join our family. Currently we have an elderly Dalmation who is a real sweetheart, but is starting to show his age we recently lost our little foxy who was a companion to the Dally and the Dally is fretting without his mate.

I am just starting to research into the types of breeds we might like to have, it won't be a decision to be made at all lightly, and I do not want to buy from a backyarder or a pet shop. So please only "real" breeds

Now... we have 5 kids, all of whom are over 6. Our 6 year old has Autism, but adores the company of the Dalmation who shadows our son ( beautiful to watch )
We have 2 indoor Ragdoll Cats, who don't mind dogs at all, I am home 98% of the time so our potential new dog will be able to come inside and be absolutely part of the family. We have a secure, fully fenced yard and my Husband adores dogs as well so the doggy will be completely adored.

We love our Dalmation, I am looking at Golden Retrievers (researching the breed) and I am wondering what else I should be looking at?
I would love a larger breed, gentle, but still able to have some romping fun with the kids, happy to have a daily walk but not too high energy. is there such an animal? LOL

[Goggie]

Rough or smooth collies? I have shelties which are smaller but fit your other criteria but if you want a larger dog all the rough collies I have met have been gentle and great with kids. No more maintenance than a retriever so don't let the hair scare you.

[newphase]

A Bassett Hound. They are so kid friendly, but very head strong and food focussed lol...so outside at dinner time but let them in after to vac the floor then just mop lol!

They are a big dog, love a walk and a romp, and their bark scares passers by the gate but if that person were to go in and say hi they'd probably start sooking and roll over for a pat lol.

Great with other dogs too, very loyal and loving!

[Quack Quack]

Awwwww my Dad had a rough collie when we were small Kids, I had forgotten all about Sandy! and the Basset Hound... there was a man up the road when we were also kids who had a basset hound, the dog also had very very large testicles that used to drag on the road when he chased us on our bikes

hehehehe But I will add them both to my research list!

[Unatheowl]

Would a schnauzer be large enough for you? Border terrier?

[~Bells~]

We had a golden retriever growing up (he was still with mum and dad until a few weeks ago, we lost him at 15 years). He was the gentlest, most beautiful dog, great with kids and other pets.

He did have to go to basic obedience training as a puppy as (I can't remember this too well) he needed some lessons in manners, but even during the "naughty" phase, he was very gentle and loving. I believe it had more to do with his manner of walking (i.e. pulling), that needed attention.

We also had pugs, and I have one now and I couldn't give them a higher recommendation as a family dog. Their role in life is to be a companion, and they perform that role with unswerving loyalty and devotion. You need to watch their weight, ensure their nose folds are clean and take care not to let them overheat but they are on the whole, very hardy little dogs, that love to walk, play, and laze around with their owners. They will follow you everywhere.

Best of luck in choosing the new family member.

[MooGuru]

Don't know too much about them but a great dane might be an option. They are definitely big!

[Harmonica]

We have a Golden Retriever who is 13 - the most beautiful natured, clever and family oriented dog I have ever known. Just wants love and fun and treats and has always been so gentle with kids!!
As long as you are happy with a bigger dog and also brushing as they do shed in summer - then a Goldie is a great choice.

[ChilliDog]

I have 2 Hungarian vizslas and they are beautiful, playful, sweet natured dogs! They are very similar in size and shape to Dalmatians so if you love dallys then vizslas would be right up your ally.

Please do remember if you're getting a puppy to socialize (and train) it properly. That's the key to having an awesome dog!!

Good luck ... hope you find the perfect addition to your family.

[Quack Quack]

Yes, whatever dog we get will be socialised & well trained! That is a non negotiable aspect of dog ownership in our home!