Thanks everyone so very much for all the advice. MY GAWD I'M SO CONFUSED.....Isn't there a happy medium between a 10" yipping wonder and a 25" go-for-the-juggler killer animal? I'm not in any hurry so I have plenty of time for more reseach, maybe even take in a few dog shows or visit a local breeder.
JWrobot and Plumkrzy: We've had quite a few cases of dog attacks here in South Fla recently with Rottweilers and Pit Bulls. They scare the crud out of me.
Bendrr: I really, really do not want a gun, Bendrr. I'd probably wind up shooting myself.
I have seen Dobies which are pitiful excuses for a doberman, just as I have seen Labradors which can kick some serious ass!
Maverick/Patriot: 135 lbs? OMG What are you feeding this dog? That's a BIG dog. It doesn't bother me that some Dobies aren't up to their uh-m-m-m shall we say fearless reputation. Hell, I don't want to kill anybody, I just want a dog with an intimidating enough appearance to make someone think twice about trying to harm me. I think any dog would get mighty upset if someone attacked their owner but a rapist isn't going to be concerned about a 6-lb barking toy wonder. What I want is something that is intimidating enough that would make them think twice about trying anything. I can't believe that anyone in their right mind would try anything with any kind of a Doberman standing six feet from them off leash. That's the reputation I'm looking for. Regular obedience training I can handle; attack training and $4,500 I can't handle. I'm perfectly happy with SIT, STAY, and COME and a house pet personality. I think any Dobie would show his teeth when necessary or have you had other experiences with some?
Its Just: Thanks for the research. The Dobie is a little shorter and obviously not as much hair. I don't particularly want a long haired dog, especially a LARGE long-haired dog. Large is bad enough in this tiny house.
Termite: Agreed. Good advice.
OUTLAW: What kind of a 90-lb dog? Your cat...yep I know about cats. They could care less about their owners..... just don't mess with them.
FARKEL: A parrot. I know, I know. A 90-lb killer parrot.
Sigh....a skunk. Maybe a skunk will work.
Trot (who's thoroughly perplexed )
Edited by - Trotafox on 30 June 2002 0:37:58