Temperament & behavior
AKC temperament summary: friendly / happy / deeply devoted. Adaptability 3/5, affection with family 5/5, openness to strangers 3/5, 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
- Structured playtime with their people
- Predictable daily routines
- Food puzzles and chew toys
🚫 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: Very low. Shedding 1/5, coat-grooming frequency 4/5, coat length varies. Light shedder — most hair stays on the dog.
Regular commitment: brush several times a week to prevent mats and control shedding; consider a professional groom every 6–8 weeks.
Aggression tendencies — the honest read
| Toward | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Strangers | Polite once introduced — may be aloof at first |
| Other dogs | Usually fine with other dogs (supervised intros) |
No meaningful guard-dog tendency; individual socialization and training still shape adult behavior.
Exercise needs
60–90 per day per day. Energy level 4/5, mental-stimulation needs 3/5.
Good with…?
- Kids: Excellent with children — famously patient
- Other pets: Usually fine with other dogs (supervised intros)
- First-time owners: Possible with a training commitment from day one
Health risks to know upfront
- Hip dysplasia — confirm breeder screens breeding stock (OFA/PennHIP)
- Dental disease — brush regularly; small jaws crowd teeth
Is this breed right for you?
Active people who genuinely enjoy daily exercise; time (or budget) for regular coat care.
Before choosing, read the complete pre-dog checklist — most mismatches are preventable with one honest evening of planning.
