08-15-2016, 12:22 AM
My missus' family had two Dobermans as a kid. One night coming back from the neighbours' she encountered one in the driveway and it jumped up and bit her on the face - 9 stitches. I wouldn't trust the breed as far as I could spit one.
Rhodesian ridgeback we had was great with kids (if you were there), slept all day... he was a pure bred and a damn good dog but a real handful as a pup. Chewed everything including the AC piping, clothes on the line etc. They are wary with strangers unless you are there with them, they are a true guard dog. Only time Phil ever moved fast was when a burglar kicked in the back door and woke him up (he was sleeping in the cat basket). Blood trail went from the laundry to the back fence.
Like all dogs it comes down to training and socialisation. All I can say is that I wouldn't want a ridgeback hanging off your leg. Very tough breed.
I don't know if a dog can truly be a guard dog and a family pet as the two roles are kind of contradictory, particularly in some breeds, but ridgeys can do this in my experience. Be aware that they do eat a lot and the breed has a few issues, particularly a genetic defect called a dorsal sinus. Pups with the condition should be euthanized but not all breeders are reputable.
A good place to check out prospective dogs is the Melbourne show, which is on soon.
Rhodesian ridgeback we had was great with kids (if you were there), slept all day... he was a pure bred and a damn good dog but a real handful as a pup. Chewed everything including the AC piping, clothes on the line etc. They are wary with strangers unless you are there with them, they are a true guard dog. Only time Phil ever moved fast was when a burglar kicked in the back door and woke him up (he was sleeping in the cat basket). Blood trail went from the laundry to the back fence.
Like all dogs it comes down to training and socialisation. All I can say is that I wouldn't want a ridgeback hanging off your leg. Very tough breed.
I don't know if a dog can truly be a guard dog and a family pet as the two roles are kind of contradictory, particularly in some breeds, but ridgeys can do this in my experience. Be aware that they do eat a lot and the breed has a few issues, particularly a genetic defect called a dorsal sinus. Pups with the condition should be euthanized but not all breeders are reputable.
A good place to check out prospective dogs is the Melbourne show, which is on soon.
DrE is no more... you ok with that harmonica man?