Being in Dobie Rescue, I have won't touch the issue of a breeder. It is their overbred and badly bred grossly overweight dogs we will wind up with anyway.
I would tell you though that are many issues within the breed besides bad breeders. They are the number one dog with which you will find vonWillebrands. A blood disorder, which will of course depending on the severity of it, hamper the activities you can do safely with your dog. One of our rescues nearly bled to death over a normal injury, that any other dog would have taken in stride.
They are also well known for the fact that there are thyroid issues within the breed, this can be taken care of with daily meds. Weight checks every few months and dosage adjustments.
They are smart loyal and protective of their pack and premises, this is not something to champion, as it occurs naturally there is no extra prodding needed, as you can and will create issues for yourself.
They love to learn, and if you do not stimulate their minds, they will find things that will. This could mean taking apart your couch.
Thye are VERY VERY human oriented, they need to be with you, not outside and left there.
The males tend to not grow out of puppyhood and behaviours until about 3.
Females tend stay puppyish until about 2.
They are very prone to allergens and react to them with hairloss, skin issues and general crankiness. So Stainless steel may not be friend to them for bowls etc.
They are a realtively new breed and their function was to be right up against their owner, velcro style and to be a personal protection animal,, you will need to bear this in mind, you will need to socialize and to socialize and socialize. The more great people a Dobie meets the more stable his reactions when meeting a bad one.
They are not by any means a dog as first time dog.
Some have a high prey drive some don't. You will need to be aware of that before you bring one into your home. Just because puppy loves your small critters doesn't mean he will love the neighbors critters aswell, he may decide he loves to chase them...............what happens after has made many dobies float into our door.
Many dobies adore kids, some dont care for them. Either way if you have children be aware that this is a large dog. Avg. weight at 70 pounds and can easily knock over a child. Basic obedience is a must starting the moment you bring him home.
Lastly, I would tell you to save your money. Go to a breed rescue. Talk to them. Visit the foster dogs There are many many puppies and adults available, whose only crime was that their breeder was dumb enough to breed their parents irresposibly.
Why add to the problem?
Kym
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Originally Posted by animal_rescue
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