Temperament & behavior
AKC temperament summary: loyal / smart / enthusiastic. Adaptability 4/5, affection with family 5/5, openness to strangers 3/5, barking 3/5 (moderate β announces visitors, then settles), watchdog/protective nature 5/5.
Likes, dislikes & how they play
π What they love
- Long brisk walks, hikes, or jogs
- Being in the middle of family life
- Having a job: watching over home and people
- Puzzle toys, scent games, training challenges
π« What they hate
- Skipping daily exercise (energy turns into mischief)
- Long days home alone
- Being bored without a job to do
- Rough, chaotic handling
Think athletic: running, hiking, and long fetch sessions. Mental work (scenting, trick training) matters as much as the physical miles.
Shedding & grooming
Shedding: Moderate. Shedding 3/5, coat-grooming frequency 1/5, coat length varies. Moderate, steady shedding.
Minimal grooming: a quick weekly brush, nails monthly, ears checked occasionally.
Aggression tendencies β the honest read
| Toward | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Strangers | Polite once introduced β may be aloof at first |
| Other dogs | Typically loves other dogs |
A real guarding instinct comes standard; channel it through socialization and basic obedience rather than encouraging suspicion.
Exercise needs
90+ per day per day. Energy level 5/5, mental-stimulation needs 4/5. Physical walks alone will not tire this dog β add brain work.
Good with�
- Kids: Good with gentle, respectful kids (supervise)
- Other pets: Typically loves other dogs
- First-time owners: Better with experienced or well-prepared owners
Health risks to know upfront
- Hip dysplasia β confirm breeder screens breeding stock (OFA/PennHIP)
- Patellar luxation (slipping kneecap)
- Eye disorders β reputable breeders screen annually
Is this breed right for you?
Active people who genuinely enjoy daily exercise; commitment to socializing a natural guardian.
Before choosing, read the complete pre-dog checklist β most mismatches are preventable with one honest evening of planning.
