Hello -
I am considering getting a dog and researching different breeds but would appreciate some expert advice. I have never owned a dog before but I do understand it is a big responsibility and I want to try and do it right. Myself and my partner live in the middle of fells, rivers and fields - perfect for dogs to enjoy - but we have no real garden. So I couldn't keep a dog that needs an enclosed garden. We both work from home so the dog would not be left alone apart from once a week when we both go out for a cycle ride for a few hours. (Obviously we wouldn't be doing this while it was still a puppy unused to being left alone.) We are both pretty active and like to walk for miles on the fells with occasional camping trips when the weather allows. It would be great if we could share this with a dog. I would like the dog to be affectionate but (reasonably) quiet as I don't like dogs that bark excessively and fairly trainable as I think it would be fun to teach my dog to do things.
Thanks.
- Helen.

Hallo Helen :)

The best piece of advice I would give is to take a look at what a particular breed was originally bred for, and think what affect the dog fulfilling that genetic inheritance may mean to you and your lifestyle.

As an example, a dog bred for guarding, such as a GSd, may well be noisy and bark at neighbours - not too much of a problem for you ;) and some dogs which may seem a good choice may prefer to charge off hunting rather than llisten to you or walk "with" you. Any breed will need good basic obedience and it will be a joy to own, this may as you are I am sure aware, take much time and patience .... and all dogs go through a "naughty" adolescent stage ;)

YOu sound as if you could offer a dog a fabulous home, and in my view, the suitable dog needs to use the "garden' area for toilet only as you will take him or her for so many walks and that is where the exercise will come. My dog is never in the garden unless supervised anyway, and gets her main exercise out on walks.

Take a visit to Discover Dogs and chat to the breeders, that would be an excellent start to tracking down your companion :) and invest in The Perfect Puppy by Gwen Bailey, full of sensible advice.

I expect others will be along to give you the benefit of their experience - well done for preparing so well for your new dog :)

Lindsay