Temperament & behavior
AKC temperament summary: courageous / spirited / determined. Adaptability 5/5, affection with family 5/5, openness to strangers 5/5, barking 3/5 (moderate — announces visitors, then settles), watchdog/protective nature 3/5.
Likes, dislikes & how they play
💙 What they love
- Long brisk walks, hikes, or jogs
- Being in the middle of family life
- Meeting new people
🚫 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: Low-Moderate. Shedding 2/5, coat-grooming frequency 2/5, coat length varies. Light shedder — most hair stays on the dog.
Easy-care coat: brush once or twice a week, bathe occasionally, nails monthly.
Aggression tendencies — the honest read
| Toward | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Strangers | Typically friendly with visitors |
| Other dogs | Typically loves other dogs |
No meaningful guard-dog tendency; individual socialization and training still shape adult behavior.
Exercise needs
90+ per day per day. Energy level 5/5, mental-stimulation needs 3/5.
Good with…?
- Kids: Excellent with children — famously patient
- Other pets: Typically loves other dogs
- First-time owners: Yes — forgiving of beginner mistakes
Health risks to know upfront
- Hip dysplasia — confirm breeder screens breeding stock (OFA/PennHIP)
- Eye disorders — reputable breeders screen annually
- Hypothyroidism
Is this breed right for you?
Active people who genuinely enjoy daily exercise.
Before choosing, read the complete pre-dog checklist — most mismatches are preventable with one honest evening of planning.
