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I so didn't realize it was dog show time... Ok, got it set to record on the replay.
Being parents of two basset hounds, we are naturally partial to them. All hounds, really, but bassets in particular. I also like English Springer Spaniels, having had two when I was a kid. I learned they are not all that smart, but fun, energetic and loyal, which compensates.
I tend to like big dogs over little dogs, but the Corgies are just too cute. I like working dogs over "decorative" dogs- the herding dogs, the hunting dogs and all. I really like the looks of the Egyptian hound, but I know he'd be wrong for my household. I'll leave him to those who can exercise him properly, and admire him from afar.
Both our dogs are rescues, and two of the three cats were strays. I will babble endlessly about animal rescue if I am not careful. I just think it's such a wonderful way to handle animals. Basset Rescue has a ranch, with lots of space for them, and they do give a thumbnail of each dog's personality, which is helpful. Yes, you miss puppy-stage but for us that's really a benefit. Less chewing and all. And with basset hounds, we really don't have much of a problem with socialization. And adopting a rescue dog is significantly cheaper than getting one from a breeder.
I think, too, if my husband wasn't so attached to his hounds that I'd go for a mixed-breed dog. Our pure-breed dog is the one with all the health problems; our junk-yard dog is healthy as anything. Mixed-breed dogs tend to be a little stronger as far as their genetics go, though a well-bred purebred should be stable. I guess I haven't seen enough of "good" breeders and heard too many horror stories; the thought of getting a dog from a breeder really gives me the heebie-jeebies. Personal issues- I do know that many people have had good experiences with bred dogs and professional breeders.
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