Just to add to the list, we recently got a Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) which looks like a miniature collie and we are very very happy with him. We got him when my DD was about 6 months after extensive research.
I wanted a dog that was
very intelligent - therefore easy to train (Shelties are listed in the top 10 most intelligent dogs)
loyal and good with children (Shelties are incredibly loyal to their family and the children in the family)
calm temperament (they have a very easy going nature)
small to medium (At only 30-40cm they are a great size for kids)
a warning barker not a yapper (Shelties are great "watch" dogs. We get a few warning barks if someone is around the house)
with moderate needs on the exercise front (Shelties really need their mind occupied, they tend to match their exercise needs with yours)
We definitely covered all of these wants with our sheltie, we got him from a breeder who socialised him really well and his parents had really lovely temperements. Plus, we were really pleased that he had outgrown most of his annoying puppy habits (chewing etc) by 6-7 months old.
The major concerns with this breed is that they can be standoffish with strangers unless properly socialised, although this is true with most dogs, it is particularly true with shelties, and they do have a long coat. Surprisingly the coat does not take much work, and only drops once or twice a year. Also as they are originally sheepdogs, they can be prone to getting overexcited with kids and herding them up!
Best of luck with your decision and your search (why don't you try select-a-pet online?) it is really worth finding the dog that is right for you.
Edit: apologies for the 'thumbs down', not sure how I put that there!!
Last edited by jackrose; January 15th, 2009 at 08:06 PM.
: apologies for the 'thumbs down', not sure how I put that there!!
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