I just got a 5 month mixed breed puppy from a local rescue.
I have a 1/2 acre chain link fenced yard and a doggie door.
I am retired and want a snuggle buddy.
After spending time online, she seems to look a lot like a Dutch Shepherd. What I have read in your forum has made me think this is not the dog for me.
The black mask and narrow face and body do seem to indicate a cross with some athletic breed, though I'm not knowledgeable enough to say for sure if it's Dutch, malinois, etc. But those ears and white markings remind me more of pit bull terriers (which also have a brindle variety). All of the indoor pit bulls I've met have been the sweetest snuggle bugs. My Dutch shepherd is also very affectionate, he just needs more training and playtime to work off the extra energy.
That said, all dogs are different even within a breed, so it's hard for anyone to predict whether this dog will be a good fit for you. I'd say, watch and see. If he's like "go! go! go!" all day and likes to jump on top of things, he might be a handful when you just want to relax. If he settles at home with an amount of walking and playing you can handle, he might be just fine.
Also, enjoy this 5-6 months age when the worst puppy biting over and the dog is still very eager to please, before all the distracting hormones of puberty. It's a wonderful time for building a bond and solid training foundation.
Tell us about yourself: I am: a father of 2 boys, a carpenter, hunter, runner. We have extensive experience with sled dogs, shepherd mixes, a wolf hybrid, and our current dog a 95# long haired Shiloh Shepherd. We added Endeavor in April 2016. She was not working out in HRD. I train for game recovery and general utility.
Doesn't really look like a DS, but that isn't necessarily going to make the difference you're worried about. Young dogs can be full of energy, regardless of breed. Heck, some older dogs can be full of surprises. Just play games with her. Give her stuff to do that interests her. I've always pushed nose work as a great way to build engagement with dogs. Lots of info on here. Don't give up yet.
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