Dog wanted!

[stacwase]

I am looking for a big (German Shepherd size or bigger), adult (4 years or older), laid-back, calm, well-socialized dog who is safe with adults, children, infants, and the family dog and cat. The ideal dog could protect the family if necessary - but only if necessary! No attacking the daughter's boyfriend!

The dog would be loved dearly and kept indoors except when out on walks or when going to the bathroom. He/she would go with me wherever I go (so it would be great if he/she loved car rides!) The dog would never be allowed outdoors off leash unless he/she was in the fenced-in area of the yard.

I'd like a dog who's not too energetic but who could keep up with me on leisurely hiking, camping, and fishing trips.

I don't care what breed it is, as long as it looks at least a little intimidating.

If I can locate such a dog I'm willing to pay to have it transported to me in the Upper Penninsula of Michigan. I'd like to have the opportunity to evaluate the dog for a few months and if it didn't work out I'd pay to have it sent back or put in rescue.

If anybody on this board knows of such a rare jewel of a dog, please respond here or email me at [email protected]. Thank you!!!!!

[Kater]

try www.petfinder.com !!!

[stacwase]

Thanks, Kater. I've been on petfinder, and I've emailed every single volunteer with a dog who even looks like it might have potential! Hopefully I'll find the perfect dog.

You know - it's really hard to find such a dog. The kind of people who raise such a great dog rarely give it up - I think the only way one would become available is if something happened to its owner.

But I'm willing to wait and search diligently! Maybe somebody on this forum knows of just the right dog.

[Cincy'sMom]

I don't know if you are willing to come to Ohio, and this dog is a little younger then you specified, but I've talked previously, with Lattie's foster mom and from I have heard she is a wonderful laidback dog.

http://www.petfinder.org/fotos/OH171.1150647.jpg

LATTIE
Dog
White German Shepherd Mix

Size: Large
Age: Adult
Sex: Female
I.D: LATTIE

Notes: Meet Lattie, around 2 years old, rescued from Fulton Co. Dog Pound. Lattie has adjusted to her foster home very well. She is fine with other dogs& children. She will chase the cat but would never hurt him! Play ball with you child! She is housebroken & is an extreme couch potato! She loves to carry a toy around in her mouth 24 hrs. a day!Lattie is very much a house dog. She does her business and is right back at the door. She will require a fenced in yard as she has ran away a couple times. Please email to meet, sponsor or adopt.
Email Foster mom at: Wendy ([email protected])




This pet is: up to date with routine shots, already house trained, altered

Animal House Rescue
Wauseon, OH
419-335-0773
[email protected]
[email protected]

[stacwase]

Lattie is beautiful. She does look a little on the small side, though. Perhaps it is just the picture? Could you tell me more about her?

[Cincy'sMom]

Unfortunatly, I do not have any more inof about her. Iwas at an adoption event about a month or six weeks ago, considering getting a dal mix puppy they had. Lattie's foster mom's daughter (who I would guess was about 12-14) told me if I wanted a really good, Laid-back dog, I should think about Lattie. She said she was a great dog, but not many people wanted a big dog, that old ( I hardly Consider 2 old!) I would email either her foster mom or the resuce group...they have always been very good about responding quickly.

Let me know what you find out!!!

[stacwase]

Thank you so much for your help!! I really appreciate it - I will emial her foster mom. I guess she must be big if people don't want her because she's "so big"!

[aly]

I hope Sue (Sudilar) sees this. She'll probably know of some that are up in your direction!

[stacwase]

Sue (Sudilar) if you see this the key words are "BIG", "OLD" and "LAID-BACK" and "Good with kids, dogs, cats"! I hope you can help me!

The ideal dog would be a big scary-looking sweet-tempered dog (like a bull-mastiff or Great Dane or big German Shepherd) who wouldn't actually hurt a flea! In addition to being my constant companion, the dog would travel with me when I go on assignments, where I'm often alone and would feel more comfortable with a scary-looking dog.

I'm not the sort of perseon who could actually handle a young, strong-willed dog. That's why I want an older one who has mellowed out a little.

I hope I'm not being too picky or asking too much - but I know if I get the word out to enough people I'll find the perfect dog!

[aly]

I'll PM her. I am almost certain she can help out with what you're looking for!

[Sudilar]

Hi!
Right now I'm a volunteer in a new, just starting out rescue, so all we have at the moment is a 9 yr. old female GSD.

However, there was a dog on this bb pulled from animal control (that was to be sent to research) by a rescuer from Michigan. Her name is Tracy from Northwest Shepherd Haven. I don't think the dog she pulled in particular will fill your needs, but I'm sure she has many more that need homes. Her web site is http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/nshh.html

I will e-mail her with your needs and hopefully she can help you.

The rescue I was a foster for is www.gsdrescue1.org I do not know if they will adopt out of state, though. You can look at their site and if you see someone there, you could e-mail Marianne with an inquiry. Her e-mail is on the contacts page as coordinator.

Good luck!!

[NWS_Haven]

Hello,
I'm the Tracy that Sue was refering to and this is Axel the dog I just pulled from the pound. They told me that he was only 1 but when I took him in to get his rabies and heartworm check I found out he is really 4. He is also neutered.

http://pic6.picturetrail.com/VOL154/1007613/1878375/22646820.jpg

He weighed 101 lbs and the vet said he was at a good weight for his size. He does have an ear infection that he is on antibiotics for and his coat and skin are poor so we're also working on that.

He is very sweet and gets along great with my dogs. I don't have cats but he is a very low drive dog and I don't think they'd be a problem. Haven't had him around children as of yet. I took him for a walk today and he totally ignored cars and people out in the street. Oh and he LOVES to ride in cars. Just lays in the backseat with his head on my arm looking out the window. I don't see any aggression in him at all. He is still a little wacked out just from being in the pound for 22 days. He hates to be crated and that would be the only major problem I've seen so far. Could be temporary or may not be. I've used a Kong stuffed with peanut butter to get him more comfortable in a crate and it's starting to work a bit.

You can email me if you'd like more information. I would like to try to avoid any kind of trial period with this boy if possible. He's been through a very hard time already and I hate too move him too much.

[aly]

Awww, this looks so promising. What a sweetie he is.

Thanks Sue and thanks Tracy for coming and posting this info! I hope this works out!

[Sudilar]

Thank you, Tracy, for your prompt response!!

[NWS_Haven]

Not a problem...I really needed to join another BB anyway:D .


Sue I don't remember what state you're in now but do you ever glance at the Petfinder classifieds? There is someone trying to dump a 10 year old WGSD somewhere here in MI. Do you know anyone else in the area that would have room right now?

[Sudilar]

Tracy, I'm in Northern Illinois. The new rescue is still getting all the paperwork and legal stuff in order before we break lose! It is a slow process, but it is moving. We aren't taking in any dogs (except for the 9yr. old female). So sorry we can't help yet.

[stacwase]

Tracy,

Axel looks PERFECT! Any chance you could see what he's like around kids??? Beautiful, beautiful dog. Tell me more about him!

[stacwase]

Oh my gosh - I'm so excited. My husband even likes him! Where are you located, Tracy???

[stacwase]

Me again!!! Tracy, how did he do on the leash?? Could you see what he's like around cats? I don't have any problem with ear infections, my other dog (Jake) gets them all the time. Would Jake be a problem for him? Jake's a neutered male. Does he bark a lot? Does he like men?

[NWS_Haven]

My rescue is in Big Rapids which is about 1 hour north of Grand Rapids and 45 minutes west of Mt. Pleasant.

When I first got Axel, he had this huge intimidating bark whenever my husband would approach his crate. He was doing the same thing to one of the volunteers at animal control and he wouldn't even walk into the pen with him. When I first met him, he tried to pull it on me but I walked into the pen with him and got a huge kiss and a wag of the tail:) . He's a very scary looking dog but a major pussycat. He doesn't sit outside and bark but he will if someone pulls into the driveway.

VERY housebroke and for 22 days wouldn't even go to the bathroom in the outside pen at the shelter. He is calm in the house and prefers to just lay at my feet wherever I am. I would trust him loose in my house if I didn't already have my own 4 running around. He'll play ball but doesn't have a huge interest in running and exerting himself too much. He could use a little basic obediance training but he doesn't pull like crazy on the leash when you walk him. I accidentally left the gate open the other day and when I turned around Axel was just standing next to me like "what do you want to do now?" He's not too interested in escaping that's for sure!

I'll have to borrow someone's kid and/or cat to test him out. I forgot to do that at the shelter. He gets along fine with my neutered males and like I said, just tends to ignore them more than anything. It's supposed to be gorgeous here today so I'll probably run him down to the city park to see how he does with alot of people roaming around.

My website is listed down in my signature if you'd like to fill out an application and get more info about my rescue:) .

[NWS_Haven]

LOL I thought I had put my website in my signature but I guess not.

Northwest Shepherd Haven (http://www.nshh.petfinder.org)

[stacwase]

Thanks, Tracy. I filled out an application.

[Sudilar]

Ohhhh, I hope this works out!!!! Wouldn't it be great?

[aly]

It would be SO great! I am so excited :D

Good thing I'm far away from Tracy. She has some very tempting cuties in her rescue :D

[NWS_Haven]

Here's a couple more pics I took of him this morning. I had some of him playing with the 6 month old GSD pup but they came out horrible!
We are certainly enjoying the sunshine we're finally getting here.

http://pic6.picturetrail.com/VOL154/1007613/1878375/23403600.jpg

http://pic6.picturetrail.com/VOL154/1007613/1878375/23403594.jpg

He goes in to get his ears rechecked on Friday and I'll keep you posted on how that goes.

[DoggiesAreTheBest]

Axel is just GORGEOUS!! What a handsome fella! Hope this works out for stacwase!

[ramanth]

Ohhhh!! Axel is a beauty!

I was going to find out when or if there was going to be a transport for him and if I could help but Big Rapids is already a bit North/West of me. *sighs*

I wish you luck!

[Cincy'sMom]

Glad you have your join us Tracy! Looks like you may have just the dog she is looking for!!! He is gorgeous!! I hope he finds a wonderful home soon!!!

[stacwase]

Oh - he's sooo beautiful and very scary-looking! But when you look in his eyes you can see he's a sweety. How long ago did you rescue him?

As I told you in my application, I sort of have two homes. We went to the second home today and started making plans for the fence. I'm thinking of a five-foot wooden fence around the back yard, for when he goes out.

I met one of the neighbor dogs today - a big, old, laid-back Great Dane. Who knows - maybe they'll have play dates!

[stacwase]

By the way, Tracy, I forgot to ask you how long you've had him? I once rescued a dog from the shelter and, when I brought her home, she was so timid and quiet that we thought she was incapable of barking! After about 2 weeks, though, she came out of her shell. She was a wonderful dog.

Do you think Axel has come through the transition period and that you're seeing his true personality yet?

[NWS_Haven]

I've had him about 1 1/2 weeks now. When I first got him I was ready to strangle him. He was worried about everything and whined constantly. He was showing cage aggression too. Now that's all settled down and he's snoring on my feet as I type:rolleyes: . He's my shadow when he's loose in the house. It always takes at least a few days to get the real feel of a dog's temperment. Ran out of time to take him anywhere today but I have all week to play around with him.

[stacwase]

He sounds like such a darling. I wonder how anybody could have ever let him go? A dog like that is such a pleasure to have around.

What's cage aggression? I just want to forewarn my husband and kids that it's going to be a temporary thing so they won't worry about it.

By the way, here's a picture of Axel's soon-to-be brother (hopefully), Jake!

[Rachel]

Originally posted by stacwase
I'd like to have the opportunity to evaluate the dog for a few months and if it didn't work out I'd pay to have it sent back or put in rescue.


I understand that you are trying to be realistic here and indeed there are times when an adopted dog simply doesn't work out, but ...I would hope that in your search for the *perfect dog* for your family you would be willing to work with the dog who you select to find his strengths and commit yourself to training. Most older, adopted dogs do come with a bit of *baggage*. It may be separation anxiety or a bad habit or simply lack of training. I am not in any way trying to discourage you. All you have to do is look at the stories of our Dogs of the Day to find out that true gems have been found in shelters and rescue situations. I have one myself. Just want to make sure that you understand that any dog, older adopted or new puppy is going to take some work and patience and time for the relationship to mesh.

[stacwase]

Absolutely. But don't we all come with baggage and bad habits!;) I must say, though, that adult dogs are so much more predictable than puppies - and one who has been in a good rescue is even more predictable, because the rescuer has gotten to know him a little.

[NWS_Haven]

Most older, adopted dogs do come with a bit of *baggage*. It may be separation anxiety or a bad habit or simply lack of training.

Amen Rachel!:) I have had a couple of older dogs that were wonderful all the way around but all of them needed a little work in some area. I try to smooth out the rough edges as much as possible before they go to a new home but just going to a new home can start those particular issues all over again and they have to learn all the new rules of that house.

I adopted an older pup from another rescue and it took me a month to get him out from under the table. He hadn't even seen a human until he was 14 weeks old. He's still a little strange but I still love him dearly:) .

[NWS_Haven]

Forgot to answer your question about cage aggression!

He would sound off like he was going to rip my throat out whenever I walked toward the crate. I took him out and had a talk with him about manners and then gave him a Kong stuffed with peanut butter and back into the crate he went. He has never even offered to snap at me....just mouthing off. He was over that in 2 days and I don't really blame him after being in the pound for 22 days.

[stacwase]

I hope all my questions aren't putting you off! The more I know about him, the better prepared I'll be. I want to make the transition as smooth as possible for him, if you choose to let me adopt him.

[NWS_Haven]

Nope I don't mind as many questions as you have about his habits and personality.
It's the people that ask if I guarantee hips that drive me crazy. Hard to do if I don't even know where the heck the dog came from. I can guarantee he has hips:D .

[Sudilar]

It sounds like you are really doing your homework to find out all you can. That's great. Have you ever been owned by a GSD? Here's some info that is posted on the German Shepherd Dog Rescue, Inc. website, just in case you'd like to know.....

The German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherds, also known as Alsatian, are medium-large dogs. Males generally range between 24 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 70-90 pounds. Females generally range 22-24 inches and 60-80 pounds. Some shepherds may be a bit smaller, and some, may be as large as 30 inches and weigh as much as 140 pounds.

The colors of German Shepherds are black and tan (with the tan portion ranging from a light cream to a deep red-depending upon the individual dog); solid black; white; bi-color (a black dog with tan legs); black and silver; blue (which looks like a very muted, grayish black and tan); sable. In a sable, just the tip of each hair is colored. Their almond-shaped eyes are medium to dark brown, and they have a black nose.

Double-coated shepherds have a soft wooly undercoat and an outer coat of longer, harsher guard hairs. Shepherds can be coated normally or can be long coated or open coated. Long coats have about the same coat as a Belgian Tervuren. Open coats have no undercoat and usually have softer guard hairs. Even with the double coated German Shepherds, it is recommended that they reside indoors as a family member.

Shepherds should be brushed or raked daily to reduce shedding--which can be substantial. Although they shed year round, shepherds shed most heavily twice a year when blowing their coat (lose and replace the undercoat). To prevent dry skin and itchiness, shepherds should be bathed no more than every 4-6 weeks.

Although one or both ears on some adult shepherds don't stand, their large ears usually stand naturally-not cropped. Their ears hang down when they are born and begin to go up at approximately 2-4 months. They may flop back down when heavy-duty teething begins around 4-6 months of age. The tail should hang down to the ground when they dog is at rest and should be carried in a slight upward curve when the dog is in motion. Although not common, some shepherds have a ring tail (carried in a ring).

German Shepherds are very intelligent, responsive dogs. Originally bred to make most of their own decisions as herding dogs, German Shepherds have the ability to think for themselves and, therefore, will assume the leadership role if not trained in obedience and given firm rules that are not to be broken. They take to obedience training quite well and excel as guide dogs, assistance dogs for the physically challenged, search and rescue dogs, police patrol dogs, narcotics dogs, agility dogs, etc.

Because they are territorial and protective, German Shepherds are natural guard dogs. They instinctively protect their home and family from danger. Because they bark when they hear anyone or anything, they need to be supervised in densely populated areas to avoid disturbing neighbors. Games of retrieval are a good way to distract them and give them exercise when in a fenced yard. When adult shepherds are adopted, they should be kept under close supervision for about a month as they may try, out of loyalty, to escape in search of former owners before bonding to you.

German Shepherds are energetic dogs and need routine exercise. A brisk half hour walk about twice a day is needed unless they are given a lot of interactive playtime by their owners on a daily basis. If given sufficient exercise, shepherds adapt well to apartment living.

They need to be socialized well and early in lots of different physical environments. They are naturally aloof with strangers, and some can be a bit suspicious of strangers if not exposed to people outside the family at an early age. Some shepherds are overly aggressive, and some are very shy. Although it can be genetic, this usually is due to poor or no training. A stable shepherd is a true best friend--extremely loyal, intelligent, affectionate, protective and responsive.

Properly socialized, shepherds are usually excellent with children, affectionate and loving with their families, accepting of family friends, aloof with strangers, and good with cats if raised with them. Some shepherds may show some dog aggression--especially males toward other males. Shepherds need a lot of human companionship. They should never be chained outside or kenneled as they will suffer emotionally.

Possible health problems include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, bloat, and spinal myelopathy (incurable paralysis of the hind legs). Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) is common in German Shepherds although they usually do not exhibit the traditional symptoms of excess weight, laziness or sluggishness, or coat and skin problems. Thyroid problems may not occur until they are at least 4 years old. Annual blood tests are recommended to help prevent associated effects on their immune system.

German Shepherds usually live approximately 10-12 years though many have lived to 14 or 15.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This information on the German Shepherd Dog Breed was supplied by Project Breed Directory- Green Book Edition.
As printed on the German Shepherd Dog Rescue, Inc. site.

[stacwase]

Actually, I never have been owned by a GSD. I'm both nervous and excited about it.

When I was a kid a GSD adopted my little sister - he just showed up at our house one day and they became attached at the hip. She was only 2 or 3 at the time, and he was about 8 years old. He kept escaping his owner and coming to be with Lisa, so his owner finally said we could have him. Lisa named him "Vegetable!"

He protected her constantly. Once we weren't watching her as closely as we should have (I was about 10 at the time) and she went out in the street. Just before a speeding car nearly hit her, Vegetable ran out and pushed her out of the street. No kidding - it really happened!!!

He wouldn't let anybody in the yard at night - including me or my dad! So we'd have to phone home and have Mom put him in the house just so we could come home.

Another question for you, Tracy. When Axel displays cage aggression, how do you go about removing him from the crate and teaching him manners?

Does he do it because being contained in the crate while you can move around freely makes him feel scared?

[NWS_Haven]

I should of used the term "cage frustration" instead of aggression. He pulled the same thing on me the first time I saw him at animal control. He was growling and carrying on but his tail was going a mile a minute so I walked into the pen with him and got GSD kisses.

He was just frustrated with being penned up and abandoned and he was letting me know about it. I would just take him out of the crate and put him in a sit and scratch his ears. After he relaxed I gave him the Kong and put him back into the crate. Then ignored him but stayed where he could see me.

He now knows I'm coming back and he's stopped doing it all together.

[stacwase]

I was wondering if it was the "fight or flight" response - and he couldn't run away so he felt like he had to fight. If I was locked up where somebody could get to me but I couldn't defend myself, I'd really be scared.

How long did it take for him to begin feeling safe?

[stacwase]

By the way - I'm glad he has hips, because he has to have them if we're going to be attached at the hip!

Hahahaha I'm so funny. It took me forever to think that one up! heheheh

[Rachel]

I better stop reading this thread or I'll be trying to adopt a GSD myself. This is getting quite exciting. I've got my fingers crossed that this beautiful animal and stacwase are destined for each other.

[lizbud]

stacwase,

Hi & welcome to Pet Talk. I saw this other post in Dog Breeds
about your looking for a breed other than GSD.

"I'm looking for a Rhodesian Ridgeback to rescue. Anybody here have experience with them? "

Just wondering if you have more knowledge about other
breeds & a GSD would be a new experience for you? They are
fabulous animals. Strong ,intelligent, yet so incredibly sensitive.

[stacwase]

I was considering a rhodesian ridgeback but I realized that they're probably too much dog for me to handle! Although I'm sure there are individuals who are more mellow, the fact that they can jump 5 feet without a running start intimidates me a little. My mom had one who jumped right over her head without a running start.

Then I decided that looking for a particular breed probably wasn't the right idea - I should try to find the right individual.

[stacwase]

Well, Tracy - I've decided that Axel is the dog for me. Now it's up to you to decide if I'm the person for Axel!

I can't take him immediately. Every two weeks, I get 6 days in a row off work. I'll be starting my next stretch off on April 28. If I can have him, I'd like to pick him up during one of those long stretches off so I can be with him.

My second house isn't ready yet. I'm getting it for sure, and I'm actively looking for somebody to build a fence. I could either take Axel during my next stretch of days off or I could wait until the fence is ready. I'd prefer to wait until I can keep him with me 100% of the time, but it's up to you. If I took him before the new house was ready, my husband and son would take care of him while I was at work.

If it helps, I can pay for his care until I'm able to take him. My email address is [email protected]. Please write me!

[aly]

Originally posted by stacwase
Then I decided that looking for a particular breed probably wasn't the right idea - I should try to find the right individual.

AMEN to that!!!!!! :)

[lizbud]

stacwase,

What does your husband & son think of Axel? Will you be the
person to continue his training & intro to your other dog, or will
you have help from the family on that? Just curious.Hope the
two dogs get along o.k. Your dog Jake is very handsome
pupster.

[stacwase]

Jake says "Thank you!"

My husband and son like the idea of me bringing Axel home. My husband is absolutely thrilled that I'll have him with me when I'm out of town.

They're both great with helping out with Jake. They take him in and out, and my son takes him for walks. They wouldn't be so great about training a dog, though. They just don't understand dog mentality. I'd have to train Axel, and then train my husband and son about what to do and not to do with him.

I don't think I'd let either of them take him for a walk unless I was there, until I was sure he'd be really good on the leash and remained uninterested in chasing small animals.

I do have a daughter who's "not into dogs". She's 15. The only time she's "into" Jake is when she's the only one here. Then he has to sleep with her! I wonder how Axel would feel about her ignoring him most of the time?

I was a little worried about the "crate anxiety". I think that would scare all three of them. That's why I want to be home for the first 6 days I get him here - I'll be here to help him make the transition.

[NWS_Haven]

Axel is extremely cat aggressive. He almost had one for lunch today. Not only that he freaked out and destroyed another crate last night. I thought he was over that business. It looks like he'll never be able to be crated.

I am ready to wring his neck right now. mad: I don't know what happened last night but he's back to as bad as he was the day I brought him home. Back to the drawing board.

Stacey I'm sorry but with his hatred of cats, he's just not going to get along in your household and I haven't even tested him on kids yet.....not sure I have a friend good enough to let me borrow their kid. :(

[stacwase]

Oh - that's really too bad! Hopefully he'll find a family without cats. That's one really wonderful thing about people who do rescue, though - you find these things out before the dog goes home to a family which can't keep him! Thank you so much - and let me know if you have any other dogs which might work out. I do have one other dog that might work out - a rhodesian ridgeback that's 7 years old and was raised with kids and cats. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Thanks again!!!!!

[rizzy]

well thats too bad about Axel. GOOD LUCK to him.
In the paper I saw some german shepard puppies for sale $60. I thought that sounded pretty cheap. You said you wanted a dog. Tell me what you think...GOOD LUCK:D

[stacwase]

I don't know - maybe I'm just overly opinionated, but I don't like the idea of buying puppies. It seems like it encourages people to breed their dogs, and too many dogs are being euthanized as it is. Reputable breeders don't usually advertise in papers, either.

But - as the puppies have already been born, maybe you should have a look at them. ? That is definitely a very low price.

[stacwase]

I must admit, though - I bought Jake. So I'm just as guilty as anybody! That was 7 years ago, though, before I got "older and wiser" heheheh

[Cincy'sMom]

I saw this dog and thought of you...don't know anymore about him then what is written. He is with a no-kill group here in Ohio
http://www.plannedpethood.org/Take_home/Pets/Tiger4.JPG

A 3 year old male Akita/Boxer mix that was found in the old west end of Toledo. Tiger is a cuddly, snuggly cutie. Given any opportunity Tiger wants to lay his head on your foot, lay next to you on the couch, snuggle on the bed, or ride in the passenger seat in the car. He gets along super with other dogs and is up for a wrestling match at any time. Tiger is 100% housebroken, knows all the basic commands, is working on his tricks, and never has been a problem. Foster Mom and Dad adore Tiger. Tiger does not bark overly much either. This dog has a really cool brindle look. He also has a look about him that would scare off any one you don't want around. Secretly, Tiger is just a baby and is as gentle as can be. Because of the Akita/Boxer mix breed of Tiger, special screening will be necessary


More info:www.plannedpethood.org

[NWS_Haven]

BYB's (backyard breeders) drive me nuts. I'd be afraid of what a $60 GSD pup looked like.

If I were to ever buy a dog, and that's a HUGE if, the kennel I'm looking at start their pups at $1500. I say huge if because I can save so many out of the shelter and buying one of these pups is just a big dream of mine. I would feel extremely guilty and $2000 is alot of spay/neuters I could use it for instead.

[NWS_Haven]

Cincy's Mom, he is COOL! His description sounds wonderful too. He sort of looks like a short haired brindle GSD. :D

[stacwase]

He looks promising! I wonder if they'd meet me half way? Ohio is quite a drive. He really looks like the kind of dog I have in mind!

[Cincy'sMom]

I'm not sure what they might do, since they do say some "special screening" required. I really don't know what that means, but if they'll allow it, I may be able to help with transport. Send 'em an email...see what they say :)

[AdoreMyDogs]

Good luck with your future dog :) I think that if it's really ment to be with a specific dog, things will just fall into place. Chances are that a rescue will not meet 1/2 way, but there are plenty of people here at PT who would be more then willing to help with a transport. Me included. Just let us know.

I used to go to school in the U.P. (Michigan Technological University) and I LOVE it there! Absolutely beautiful but cooooooold! I have been itching to get back to the U.P., specifically to the Porcupine Mountains, and in Houghton to check out my old college again. Lots of memories there in the U.P. for me.

Again, best of luck and if you need a hand with a transport, don't hesitate to call on us. :)

[rizzy]

Originally posted by stacwase
I don't know - maybe I'm just overly opinionated, but I don't like the idea of buying puppies. It seems like it encourages people to breed their dogs, and too many dogs are being euthanized as it is. Reputable breeders don't usually advertise in papers, either.

But - as the puppies have already been born, maybe you should have a look at them. ? That is definitely a very low price.

that is exactly what i thought to....a low price i mean. I dont know much about byb's. Our dog was bought buy a breeder in the cities. It sounds to me like that kita/boxer is a good dog. Will he work?

Keep us updated!

[DaisyMcCat]

$60 for a puppy is very, very low. Too low. You cannot get a "deal" on a good, healthy dog. The person advertising this is a backyard breeder hoping to make a quick buck, or a careless dog owner who didn't spay his dog and is trying to turn a profit off his mistake.

German Shephards are expecially prone to many serious (and ultimately fatal or dehabilitaing) conditions, including hip dysplasia. A good breeder will test the parent dogs against this. A good breeder will also:

-agree to take the dog back at *any point of its life*

-have a waiting list of buyers before the pups are born


-is breeding to uphold the standard of the breed

-have both parents on site and will let you look at them

-do some sort of homecheck

-spay/neuter the pups, or make you sign soemthing saying you will do it

-give the pups at least their first round of shots

-keep the pups with the mother dog for at least 8 (preferably 10-12) weeks.

If the breeder fails to do any of this, it's not a legit one. Please don't keep thse awful people in business.

[stacwase]

I emailed the lady about the akita/boxer mix and she said that I'd have to drive to Toledo. I actually found a bunch of links to shelters in my area (I had looked for them unsuccessfully forever!) and I think I might try to keep within a 100 mile radius. That way I can meet the dog and have him meet his new family of 2-legged and 4-legged animals before he commits himself!

[rizzy]

So you are getting that dog. WONDERFUL! I am so happy for you and wish you and your new dog good luck! I hope all goes well!

[Cincy'sMom]

Sorry Tiger isn't going to work out for! Glad that you found some shleters closer to you though...that right dog is out there somewhere!!!

[rizzy]

Oh me so you arent getting the dog. Ok I am :confused:.
LOL

[stacwase]

I finally got a dog! My husband and I met Max today at a shelter and it was love at first sight!

He's a 2-year-old Shepherd mix. I don't know what he's mixed with - maybe Rottweiler? But he's georgous. He's good with kids and dogs. My little sheltie has already established himself as alpha. But he's not old and he's anything but laid-back!

He's also a great big baby, and he LOVES car rides! In fact when the lady at the shelter let me take him out to walk him, he saw a truck with its door open and took off so fast I couldn't hold onto him, and he jumped into the open truck door!! When we got home we went right out and got one of those no-pull harnesses because he is unbelievably strong. He actually pulled me across the room in my chair - a regular chair without wheels!

I just found out he loves cats. He went after my cat and licked him to death. The cat was saturated head to toe, and his fur was sticking up everywhere!

So - what do you think of him?

[Sudilar]

Congratulations!!!! Max is adorable! He sounds like the perfect match!!

[stacwase]

Thank you, Sudilar! He's a handful, that's for sure. I wish I had 1/4 his energy!

[Logan]

Congratulations on your new boy! He is darling and just like everyone said, the right one is out there, you just have to be a bit patient! Your patience paid off!

And Welcome, Tracy, to Pet Talk! I'm glad you made it over here. Can you give an update on Axel? Didn't I read on Just Dogs that you have found a home for him?

Forget my question, Tracy! I just read your separate post on Axel. Congratulations on a great adoption weekend!!! :)

Logan