We are looking for a dog as a family pet and have been searching on the net for the best breed for our family.We have two young children age six and two and two cats and two rabbits,we live in a small village and have countryside all around.I need a breed that will be good with the children and also if we go on holiday be fine with my parents or brother(and two children)to look after it.The other requirement is that it needs to protect us,not be too soft that someone could threaten us and also guard the family home.So far I have been thinking of a Weimaraner or Finnish Spitz can anyone give any suggestions?.I have never owned a dog myself but my mother and father always had one when I was younger.

Hi Guest,
If it is at all possible the best thing you could do is visit the Discover Dogs section at Crufts (NEC, Birmingham) this week (Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun) where you will be able to meet examples of almost every Kennel Club recognised breed, and talk to their owners informally about your requirements. There really is no better way to decide what you like than actually seeing them in the flesh.

Good luck :)

Hi
why don't you register and tell us a bit more about your requirements/preferences??(its free)
A weim and a finish spitz seem are very different dogs so what appealed about these 2 breeds??
I own a spitz breed-2 of them (elkhound) and have 4 children and think they're the best dogs in the world but they do as with all spitz breeds shed coat for fun.
Regards Archer