I'm researching breeds and trying to decide which breed is right for me. I am strongly leaning toward a Doberman (I'm stuck between a Dobe or a Ridgeback) and need some guidance. I am far from new to dogs, and have Doberman experience (grew up with Dobes, but not the same thing as having your own, or for my special circumstances).
I currently have a Mastiff. She is my assistance dog and while she does an AWESOME job and I really can't complain at all.... I don't want another Mastiff when she retires as my next partner. There are sadly logistical issues (her size is a blessing and a curse at the same time, great for doing her job, bad for airline flights where we don't fit in coach seating, restaurants where she doesn't fit under the table, etc) and I want to downsize for my next partner.
I need a dog with certain substance, he will need to be medium-large but strong, aloof with strangers yet allows them to handle him if need be, needs to be protective to a point but not aggressive. This dog will need to be highly intelligent and relatively easy to train, yet still be funloving
A dog that is entirely focused on me, in tune with me and not easily distracted. The dog will have to be definitely larger than a Labrador and I don't care for GSD (sorry for those that have them). The docked tail on a Dobe is attractive because it reduces chances of accidents (tail knocking things over, or getting run over by carts, or stepped on).
I need a dog that will be good and patient with children who are well trained to treat dogs with respect
I would like a dog with little shedding, easy keeper, and in general nice attitude.
Is a Doberman for me?