Quote Originally Posted by StarandBratsmom View Post
My boyfriend and I are moving pretty soon, to a place where we can have dogs. Currently we have cats because my landlord doesn't mind cats. We think adding a dog to our family would be great.

We both want a BIG dog, but we both do not know what will be a better breed to have. We both like the Bull Mastiffs, but they are large and very slobbery dogs. I kind of want a fluffy dog, leave it to a girl to want cute and fluffy. We also both want one that is smart, easy to train, and does great with kids. We plan on marrying and having kids too.

What do you think?
What about activity level? That's also important. I prefer breeds that are less active, because I myself am lazy. Some people prefer more active dogs to jog and/or hike with.

As far as smart and easy to train, that can apply to almost any dog. Many dog breeds may be reputed to be unintelligent, or difficult to train. Sighthounds are notorious for this, but it could not be farther from the truth. Sighthounds are very intelligent, but often learn very differently than other breeds.

So I guess by "easy to train" do you want a dog who will be well-behaved in the home, or an obedience competitor? That is something to really think about, because many breeds are very good at just being good dogs - they are well-mannered by nature, and need little more in the way of training than basic obedience, and general manners. Others need condtant reminders of who's in charge, and how to behave themselves well.

Also, how big is big to you? A Bullmastiff is considered a giant breed. But would something a little smaller work for you?

In the case of the Bullmastiff, is it the drool that turns you off, or the lack of coat? I know for me, it would be the drool, so I understand!

But if you like a breed like the Bullmastiff, but want coat, I would look into something like the Tibetan Mastiff, Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Pyranees, St. Bernard, or Newfoundland. All breeds are based from the Mastiff, and have similar temperaments (though the Pyr is rather protective by nature, and require a firmer hand in training and LOTS of socialization), but have coat.

Do remember, though, that a coated breed will require more in the way grooming. They are double-coated, and so will blow coat by the bucket-loads in spring/summer. And to keep the coat in good shape, these breeds will require brushing several times a week, especially during times of heavy shedding. You'll need to be prepared for that.

Also, would you prefer a puppy, or an adult? Puppies require a ton of work, need to be spayed/neutered (unless you plan to show), need vaccinations, and other general health things, LOTS more training. They will teethe, so they will chew a lot, and when a giant breed puppy chews, he means business!! He'll require different nutrition than many other breeds, to ensure that he does not grow too fast, and threaten the health of his joints.

Another thing to consider is that larger breeds often do not live as long as smaller breeds, and that can be heartbreaking. Just another thing to consider.

NOW, I am NOT trying to talk you out of a giant breed. Just telling you things to think about, and take into considerantion. Some of these things are items that some folks don't realize, and may be a deal-breaker.

I do want to say: KUDOS to you for doing your research!! So many people fail to do that, and the dog ends up paying the price. I wish you luck in your search.