Hi All,

I really need some help.  I own an Airedale and a Minature Schnauzer...both bitches aged 5 and 7 yrs.  They are soft, freindly and happy.  I really want another dog and need help in deciding which breed would fit my bitches terrier nature.  I cannot decide between a Soft-Coated Wheaten or a Grand Bassett Griffon Vendeen.  Please could you help!!  Both are happy breeds which is vital...but I am unsure if more terriers will be a disaster or a good thingbecause personalities will match or if the Bassett would win on account of being more laid back than a terrier...as the girls are a little older.

Any ideas...thoughts or suggestions would be most welcome... Thanks !!  

I'm afraid I can't comment on Wheaten's because I don't know that breed, but I think you'll find that the Griffs would not necessarily be any more "laid back" than terriers...I used to show and handle the Petit variety and although they are hunting dogs, they are terrier through and through...they are nicknamed the "Hairy Hooligans" and boy is that true.

The Grand variety may be a little calmer but they are very active and happy dogs and love to be "in the thick of it"...this knowledge I gleaned from spending many happy hours with the breeders and owners and shows all over the UK with the Petit and Grand varieties.  They are fantastic dogs but not sure they would display the "laid back" qualities you suggest! :-)

Hopefully someone with more experience will come along soon.

Grand variety calmer :D

Wheatens are more "laid back" than other terriers in that they usually get on with other dogs and love everybody, but they are still terriers! It should also be remembered they have high maintenance coats which means more time will be spent with your new dog than the others, because of the grooming. Not everyone wants to spend that time, especially with children and/or other pets demanding attention. They are also quite adept at finding their way to the front for attention other than when grooming! 

Thanks for all your good advice...honestly why has life got so many difficult decisions in it!!  I must say that I do enjoy the grooming side of having a dog and that what ever breed is going to be, I have thought about that.  My Airedale takes 1/2 aday on a weekly basis especially at this time of year!!

Many thanks again .....

Choose a wheaten! They are brilliant and once you've had one you will want another. We have had two (with another one in seven weeks!) and they are absolutely brilliant. And as for it being gentle with your other dogs you should have no problems if you train them right. We had our first wheaten when I was 5 and she knew when to be gentle and when she was aloud to be playful. Anyway if you decide on a wheaten then the club secretary is really helpful and you can find all the info at  www.wheaten.org.uk including how much grooming they need.

Good luck :D

Sarah xxxx