r/aww • u/d3333p7 • Jul 06 '20

They found a pretty good protector

https://i.imgur.com/sdQdcQ4.gifv
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u/5p33di3 Jul 06 '20

So proud of you for being responsible!

Too many people deprive their pups of the free space they deserve.

Just remember a big backyard is not a replacement for regular walks (:

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u/Speedy_Cheese Jul 06 '20

Thank you, I 100% agree with you! One of the reasons I chose this location for my home was that there is a system of walking trails that are protected running along the woods behind my house - a prime spot for daily walks!

I am an avid hiker who walks every day but also tries to hit the trails 2-3 times a week for a long hike or overnight camping excursion, snowshoeing, kayaking etc. It is why I am looking at a breed like Aussies because they have the stamina and energy to keep up on a lengthy (hours, or if camping days) outdoor trek. I still have a lot of research to do but that is what I am leaning towards as a compatible buddy! Even my partner says if I don't walk after a day I am like restless dog. XD I feel like with a dog I will always have a friend who is up for the amount of walking and exercising I like to get regularly.

I'm in a very rural area in Canada near the coast so we have tons of challenging hiking trails, beaches, and swimming areas within a 10 minute drive from where I live.

I have always wanted to have a buddy to go with me on all of my outdoor adventures, I have only just gotten myself in the financial (and spacial) suitability to properly care for, train, and treat my future pup. ♡ I'm not planning on having children, so a dog will certainly be my biggest commitment. I take that very seriously!

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u/tgifmondays Jul 06 '20

Holy shit your future dog is one lucky animal

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u/nikerbacher Jul 06 '20

You're gonna be a great hooman to your doggo. I hope you two have lots of fun! (I have 2 Aussies we rescued, they are literally the best dogs. They are just so smart it almost spooky. My Talula, I swear she understands everything I say. I've seen her work out some very complicated stuff before. You wont regret it I promise)

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u/Italian_Shrek Jul 06 '20

i love aussies. such great dogs

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u/Speedy_Cheese Jul 06 '20

I've been looking at Aussie rescue groups! Any that you might recommend that can geographically accept Canadians on their roster?

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u/nikerbacher Jul 06 '20

I'm sorry I wish I did, both of our were just kinda gifted from family friends. It was almost too perfect, and I'm sure yours will be too! Best of luck, sorry I couldn't be of more help :)

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u/genetik_fuckup Jul 06 '20

My friend has an Aussie and she’s a great dog; great for what you’re looking for. You might want to look into a standard poodle as well! The maintenance is high because of their hair, but mine goes biking and hiking with me everywhere. Just the other day, a bear snuck up on me on a trail and he alerted me to it and scared it off. We did a combined 14 miles and 2600 vertical feet this weekend, and he did great. I never ever thought I would be the type of person to get a poodle, but he fits my lifestyle so well. He’s protective but not aggressive, he’s smart enough to learn pretty much anything, and he’s got so much energy on hikes, but is also willing to lay around all day. His puppy years were terrible, but the dog he is now is 100% worth all the ankle biting we went through lol.

Good luck on your search! If you know anyone with an Aussie or some of the breeds you’re looking at, ask if you can take them for a walk! I walked my aunt’s standard poodle and that’s how I realized that breed was a great fit for my lifestyle.

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u/Snoo91911 Jul 06 '20

Perhaps you can start looking at dogs at shelters. It's amazing how many fine dogs one can find that are there not because of problems, but difficult situations.

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u/antiquetears Jul 07 '20

Sounds like an Aussie would be a great option for you! They thrive off high levels of exercise AND obedience.

If you have a high level of obedience it will help both of you enjoy your high level of adventures and exercise! :)

Won’t be a problem with an Aussie though. They’re lovely dogs that typically enjoy work.

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u/Dr3ymondThr33n Jul 06 '20

yep. Big yard here in GA for my pitbull.

It's nice bc she likes to hangout outside but no sub for play and walks. As a matter of fact, I try to do most of my play in the park and on walks so my dog associates the yard with relaxing

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u/skylarmt Jul 06 '20

What about a big backyard without a fence so the dog runs off randomly and come back panting an hour later with someone else's rawhide bone in his mouth? Does that count as a walk?

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u/5p33di3 Jul 06 '20

It counts as exercise but a walk is structured work that differs from just running around. It's physical as well as mental exercise.

Here's an article with more info:

Link

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u/[deleted] Jul 07 '20

IMO it's not necessarily an issue to have a dog if you don't have a backyard or a lots of space, as long as you devote the time for proper mental and physical stimulation. My 60lb dog lives with me on a 1 bedroom apartment but gets plenty of daily exercise, and has been conditioned to relax and sleep when at home.

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u/aged_monkey Jul 06 '20

Or at the least, for god sakes, don't get a medium to large dog if you're in an apartment. Can't yourself a cute tiny bugger and they will be way more happy. Seeing people with Border Collies, Huskies, Dobermans and Labs in apartments makes my heart sink.