I am seriously considering this breed. If you own one or know someone who does what can you tell me about them? Yes, I researched and read, so links to breed characteristics are not needed. Just wondering from a personal standpoint. I have ample acreage and ample time to train efficiently. Not a concern. I have no problem with starting a puppy correctly and properly socializing along with being that “leader” I have no problems handling a giant breed and have worked with/trained other strong bully breeds and Mastiffs.

My concerns lies in this…we have barn cats and pigs…is this a breed that will be known to hunt and kill “small game” naturally? Or thru obedience, exercise, and socialization will ignore these factors of our life? We live on a farm, obviously. Is this a breed I will have to be concerned about when ppl pull into the yard? I like the intimidating look but would prefer a dog that could care less, maybe a bit more aloof and watchful? I certainly don’t want a 130# dog begging for attention either. Is this breed SPASY…let me define spasy…I consider a Boxers, APBTetc to project this happy & spasy type personality. I am looking for a fairly laid back, BIG dog, with minimal grooming requirements, that bonds tightly with its family, gentle with children (aside from the obvious HUGE puppy knockover haha) possibly a bit aloof around strangers but can be defined as “safe” for the most part with necessary socialization etc. Something confident yet displays some protectiveness, which is a bit different to me than natural aggression…A dog that learns to be watchful yet respects its handler and desires to be close. Willfull at times is ok to begin with but once leadership is established I want a dog to be in tune to me and work to please. This would be a HOUSE dog and not an outdoor dog and the dog would indeed travel with us when we go places, more than likely follow along on horseback rides etc. Rarely left home alone. We do not have a real social house just the family usually.

Ok and lastly. From what I understand this is typically a fairly healthy breed. Aside from Penn hip scores on parents etc. What other things should factor in when seeking out a breeder? When looking for a breed of dog like this, that is oftentimes bred with no relevance to personality traits of the parents…what things should I be watching for and aware of to ensure the puppy would be mentally stable? Male vs female? Is there significant differences in the sex of this breed? I tend to be drawn to females in my younger years (due to the more serious nature I found in female dogs) but certainly would be open to either sex. I find males, in general, are best for families with children, as boys retain some playful antics a bit longer whereas females can become a bit lazy. Does this hold true with this breed?

After reading that…is there any other breeds you can think of that would also fit this profile?
Curtis…Thank you and much agreed Was my worry
Fadin Reign…Thanks for the touching story Don’t know a farm dog yet that doesn’t LOVE to steal the horns or a farm cat that isn’t waiting around for a snack at castration time LOL>

Curtis…So then WHAT breed sounds like it would suit the purpose I am looking for and would be a bit easier to find a good breeder?
Lioness~ Thank you for that info. Gosh darn it, they are just gorgeous! Pet mainly, I am looking for. I have no desire to compete with the dog however, would be looking to get a CGC and all that stuff to prove it is a well rounded pooch. Possibly continue some therapy work. Overall family companion tho I would put the dog to work pulling our children on walks Being a former breeder myself I realize a wait is imminent. Thinking in a couple years, therefore researching now. SO TRUE about finding a good breeder tho. Man, I have emailed MANY MANY breeders to not even get a reply back. I think my questions must intimidate:)