Wow! I thought this thread had died. I have been busy, and then i tried to get on here and it wouldn't let me on for a while. THanks for all the replies.
ok, to answer some questions. I used the phrase "high strung" for my dobie, when I probably should have said high energy. But he is that only part of the time. The main problem we have is him not accepting people when I say it is ok. We do not have visitors very often (we kind of live in a remote area) and I did try to socialize him when he was young, but then he got sick for a while, bacterial infection, about the time they are supposed to be socialized. Then when he got better, I went through a huge amount of stress, and could not take him out and about. His parents we saw through the door, and they paced the yard the entire time we were there. Please do not give the lectures on how to pick a pup. I have read all that. I know the mistakes I made back then, and would not trade him anyway. And I know what to do now. That's why I ask so many questions. I love to research. I knew going in what dobermans were supposed to be like, but life happens, especially when you make other plans for your dog. We got a doberman for protection, because at that time I needed it. When my neice (11 years old) came over for xmas, it took him 3 days to get used to her. But she was never afraid of him, and really liked playing with him once he settle down. When I take him for walks, he is always getting ahead of me just a little (on leash) I have worked with him on this for 2 years. I have tried every method. I am just a slower walker because of my health limitations. I need a dog that is a little more laid back, not lazy, but even a weimaraner is high energy. I had one when I was a kid for about 4-5 months ( he was a stray that showed up, parents got rid of him, wouldn't let me keep him.) I loved him dearly, but I have read enough to know that will be too much for me. I love from what I've read, how the boxers love children. I just wish my dobe would a little more. He is a wonderful dog with just us.
So, I know the boxers can overheat. But I'm very slow at hiking. And we have a dry heat, not humidity (not very often anyway) And would a boxer mix be better? They seem to have noses a little longer.
ok, questions on the training. I have studied different methods of training, since I was young. I have really settled on Cesar Milans dog psychology, and it has definately worked with my dogs. Without his methods we would have some really unhappy dogs. I have worked on the pack leadership and dominance issues since we brought him home 2 years ago. I take him for walks as much as possible, but it is out in the country. There I can let him run off leash and he wears out much better. In town, we play ball. I have to really watch him because both his back legs are deformed, and I am constantly watching for any signs of over working, and we quit. The vet says they are just deformed. I work with him everyday.
Lifestyle aside from hiking: well, i only get to hike a few times a week, and like I said, I'm really slow. Other than that, I am at home, finishing up homeschooling my son, before he leaves next year. I would like a companion that can go with me everywhere, likes people, but especially kids, and still protect "when" it is needed.
ok, does this answer everyone's questions?? did I miss anything? I saw a boxer in town the other day, a female, and she was absolutely gorgeous. I am going to talk to some people that have one, and I'll know better when I get up close to one, if its more what I want. I want something that will cuddle. Most times my dobe is just too royal and regal to cuddle. He can be loveable, but not to the extent that I would like. He can be aloof.
best of luck to you in your hunt for the campanion hiker...
