breed

Question
QUESTION: Hello, my husband and I are thinking about getting a dog, but not sure which type would suit our quiet house of 2 cats.  I have kids of all ages come in our house everyday for music lessons, so need a dog that doesn't bark alot or bite or is too big (medium size is nice)  
I like a more cuddly, furry looking dog (I like cats) that maybe my husband could go for a jog the odd time, or a romp in our nearby field with me.  I like to garden, so the dog could play in our medium sized backyard.  We would take our dog camping in summer and with my husband hunting for deer in the fall...just an all-around quiet family dog that loves hugs! that doesn't chase my cats!
We had a samoyed years ago and i just loved her so much, but maybe should try something different??
We appreciate your advice. thanks. Lori


ANSWER: Lori-

Let me just say, your home sounds 100% perfect for a golden retriever. Athletic, good with cats, great with kids, cuddly and fuzzy, good for camping and hunting buddy....

Sammies are wonderful, minus the high prey drive, LOL, but I think you would really love a nice golden, especially if you adopted a nice adult or senior from a rescue that is already housetrained and trained and looking for a home! :)

Good Luck!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi again, guess what we found at the animal shelter today?  A golden retriever cross (not sure what crossed with -but seems smaller than goldie?)  
My question is - this female is still intact (we'd get her fixed of course) and 2 yrs. old and when they brought her in meeting room for us, she was really hyper.  Will she be a handful for us - they said she needs obedience training - was a stray.  but will she calm down for my cats???  And is she full grown at age 2...she's a perfect medium size right now - maybe the cross breed helps.  She looked us both in the eyes alot and rolled on her back for a belly rub. ..yes, she did bark alot too - in her kennel she just laid there, heavy panting and looking at us - no barking
My hubby really wants her...i'm unsure of her energy needs and my quiet cats happiness...what are your thoughts???thanks for your advice. (i'm sure someone will take her soon - so we need to decide fast)
Lori

Answer
Honestly Lori, it sounds like you found a field golden mix, LOL- one of the nice playful hyper ones! Yes, she is full grown at 2. She sounds like she is quite the handful- and will require a lot of exercise!

I cant tell you if she will calm down for your kitties, or even get along with them, but I can tell you that if you think she is the one, then you can do what it takes to make it work! Obedience training, consistance, and patience, and it will all be ok!

Where are you located? (State) Have you tried www.petfinder.com ?

Good luck!!! I hope you find the perfect dog!