It took me a long time to truly bond with Clipse. I like him yes, but to really feel a connection.......? Now I can't imagine life without him.

As for the grooming I would get her professionally groomed and then to keep up with it I would get a zoom groom. A zoom groom will be your best friend. It really makes the hair fly and you can use it on your dobe as well.
Do you know what kind of food she has been getting? Changing her diet may help with the hair as well.

No matter what anyone here says though just go with your heart, you have to live with her afterall.

Good luck in your decision!