Our Elkhound was stubborn. Our Malinois is crazyenergetic and compulsively herds our cats.

[elehhhhna]

Our black lab swam like a champ.

Breeds are bred for certain characteristics, traits, and behaviors. Can DU at least agree on THAT?

[Recursion]

1. "Breeds" have very specific definitions and standards that few dogs meet

But in general, no, behavior is not bred.

[Marrah_G]

2. I agree

Not every breed is good for every home. I think it is irresponsible for people not to understand the breed they choose.

[Warpy]

3. Different temperaments are also displayed within those breeds

so it's silly to dismiss one breed or another regarding personality. Some herding dogs would rather sit and watch and some dogs bred to be guard dogs are lovable slobs who'd only lick a burglar to death.

My only objection to pit bulls is that they're all jaw and if something does provoke them, they're going to do a lot of damage.

All the pits I've ever personally met have been sweethearts.

[elehhhhna]

4. i feel the same way

pits and pitbull-like dogs are supereffective at attacking things IF they're triggered. like a .45 generally does more damage than a .22



oh cripes now the gunners will pile on.

[Warpy]

5. Well, they'll point out that a .45 makes a bigger hole

but a .22 bounces around inside you and does more damage.

But yeah, we're used to pile ons.

[Fumesucker]

6. You might enjoy this

http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/07/dog.html

[flvegan]

7. I think I love where this is going.

Go on...

[smirkymonkey]

8. I don't know. I just love dogs!