Need Help In Decision

[Kezza]

Hi all how's things. I am needing some help in a decision that I seem unable to make lately. I have a Silky x Shih tzu and he is a lovely puppy(6mths) but I am looking to get another dog. My choice is a Sheltie or a Japanese Spitz. I have been to the dog shows in the area and have had there input, I have visited both breeders and this has not really helped with the decision at all.:confused: So I think I am just after different opinions. So please help me..........
Thanks

[Aztec]

Both are nice dogs, and both have quirks.

I suggest talking to a rescue, because they will give you a more straightforward answer about the breed than a breeder.

Both breeds bark alot. A sheltie will bark at blowing leaves, quivering grass or anything else that moves. I know because I have one, and even though I love him completely I believe people must know the bad things about a breed before getting in it and I don't suggest a breed just because it worked for me. It needs to work for the new owner.

Again, ask some rescues and get some temperment questions answered.

[ScarlettO's Mama]

You can check out dogbreedinfo.com for info on both breeds to see which one is more compatable with you and your needs. I'd also reccomend bringing your current dog along to meet any possible new family members to see how he/she gets along with them. Good luck.

[Kezza]

I have done the research over the last 12 months. Aztec your dog is beautiful. I do know the both breeds are known for there barking, but you can train a dog not to do this as much. And it is true I have spoken to people that have told me good and bad about both breeds. Even at the dog shows people that own a spitz to get the sheltie because I have kids. At puppy preschool I was told by the trainers to get the sheltie, so who knows?????????????
I have done those dog tests on the internet and the sheltie is always at the top.

Thanks to both of your for replying.

[Aztec]

Training can help, but it doesn't eliminate the problem. My sheltie is really well trained, but the barking is breed into him. It also depends on which gender you decide on. Females are calmer than males in general.

Shelties love kids, esp. if they are raised with them. They are very playful dogs...and in general just like being around children. (Although many of them like to herd children too :))

If you know what to expect go ahead and get a sheltie...and I am going to want to see pictures, as they are one of the cutest puppy breeds ever.

[Kezza]

I have found a breeder that I am happy with, she treats the dogs as part of the family and her children also work with the dogs, so they have kids from the day they are born. I was ment to get a sheltie pup from this litter, but she only had 1 female. So now I need to decide how important to me is it that I get a female, or do I get a male?
Seeing my other dog is male(but desexed) can I have 2 male dogs and have them get on? And are female shelties really calmer? Also do you have any health issues as I know that they can have a few? Thanks Aztec. "Unlike some dog breeds males and females make equally good pets. The main difference is that males tend to have more impressive coats, and unspayed females will 'blow' coat , after every heat cycle.
/QUOTE]"http://www.mypets.net.au/flex/shetland_sheepdog/252/1

Also I will be happy to send pics as I think they are beautiful as well

[Lyka_01]

Both are good...whether what breed is??? I'll take Aztec advise...those info might help a lot...

[Aztec]

Out of the shelties I have met, the girls are sweet and a little more timid...while boys are more enthusiastic/and hyper...although they can be timid in new situations. Girl dogs in general like to sleep more than boy dogs. Boys like to wander around and find something to do.

It all comes to personal preference, or what you are looking for. The parents can come into play as well.