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Originally Posted by RotDocPA  To give some background I have a retired Ch show line Rottie who is spayed and several ancient female terriers. I have a lot more free time now, kids are older, busy w school and own interests and I cut back my veterinary job since my husband's career has become primary. Considered buying a more working bred puppy/starter schutzhund prospect. Because of kids I was not looking for a nail spitting/kick butt serious dog but high drive/fun/social sort(sport dog). Prefer a female due to kids. One litter did not pan out, only 1 pup. Other litter I decided not to pursue due to a lot of dog aggression in the pedigree. The breeder does not feel this is an issue and rec that a working dog should be kenneled and brought out for training only. This would ensure no contact/playing w other dogs(or fighting). Not sure this would be acceptable to the kids who would like to help take for walks, play ball w etc. One daughter wishes to attend training class w me. I'm not sure one ever can ensure complete separation esp where kids are concerned. Do most trainers rec kennel only dogs? Are working bitches generally too dog aggressive to manage w older non aggressive bitches(all spayed)? |
I think it's important for a working dog to be socialized to the family environment and to live as a family member.
I don't think it's necessary for all dogs in a household to be best of friends, or even to be out with one another. Makes for a lot of mayhem even without dog aggression in the lines. I know people who have 8 or 9 dogs running around the house, and all you can hear is yelling and barking. Not my cup of tea. Furthermore, I certainly don't believe my dogs need to get along with ANY dog outside my household... what they need to do is learn how to ignore them, and that comes with training and proper guidance.
Just because there is a presence of dog aggression in lines does not mean that every dog in those lines will be that way, either. Leadership plays a very big role in the imprinting and management of a puppy. In other words, nurture can help squelch and bring under control some of these natural tendencies, IMHO.