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What breed/breed mix dog do you think makes a good traveling, protection and walking/hiking companion?

hMMMM....How many of our members have a dog? That's probably how many breeds you're gonna hear are perfect!

Sharon's absolutely right, Carolyn.

I think you need to decide what you'd feel comfortable with. Many RVers have small dogs because they think that they're better suited for the smaller spaces in an RV. But I have a 75# Lab and wouldn't think of having a small dog. It's all personal preference.

One thing I do know is that small dogs tend to be more ... vocal (trying to be nice here ). Jed's not a barker unless he perceives something's not right, so from that standpoint he's a good watchdog. And he's big, which could be a deterrant if necessary. But he also requires regular exercise and sheds like crazy.

It all depends on what you want, what compromises you're willing to make, and most importantly whether you're willing to take on the financial responsiblity of a dog. I don't believe that bigger dogs are more expensive, except for the amount of food they eat. Health-wise, little ones can be pretty pricey sometimes, too.

I wouldn't trade Jed for anything, and am grateful for all the love and joy he brings me. And everyone who has a dog would say the same thing.

What others have said.....so many choices. Be aware that some campgrounds and communities will not accept some breeds. Some dogs enjoy the hiking better than others and some dogs require more exercise than others. ...and some dogs are hard to keep out of the water (mine) Think of the grooming and bathing requirements on the road.....

I don't expect my dogs to protect me, but I know that they will warn me......and then it is up to me.

You asked in the singles forum and I gave a longer answer there. I agree with all the above. And will say that you'll weed out some of the problems with various breeds by getting a mixed breed. Unless you want a show dog - save one! And if you get a dog (not a puppy) you can see the traits the dog has and whether they can fit your lifestyle. A puppy - you really don't know how they'll turn out!

cpatinjones wrote:What breed/breed mix dog do you think makes a good traveling, protection and walking/hiking companion?

They all do!

Like Tina said, I don't expect my dogs to protect me, but they know their job is to warn me. Even though they do love to bark at the squirrels and chipmunks I can tell when the bark changes to a stranger danger alert. So size isn't a factor except for bathing/grooming or if lifting a big dog could be an issue. I posted a picture on my Facebook page recently of a darling medium sized gray poodle who was at a nearby shelter looking for a home. He is six and has such a sweet looking face, his owner had to go to a nursing home. There are thousands of dogs already trained in shelters across the country just waiting for a new home and someone to love. You'll know when the right one looks you in the eye and says pick me!

As you can see from my signature I now travel with three - two big and one little. My Labs shed a poodle a week and Sophie sheds in white. I agree with the "adopt and save a dog". There are so many dogs in shelters who desperately need a home and love. All of my dogs are rescues and were adults when I got them. As cute as puppies are, they require more time, energy and training.

I love my Rags He is a Coton de Tulear and is a non-shedding breed, rescued from a puppy mill. He is 20 lbs, so not too big and not too small and definitely a mama's boy He can walk for miles so we get lots of exercise. He will also run alongside when I ride my bicycle or skate. I agree that the breed/size is personal preference, but above all, I hope you adopt!

These kitties even think Rags is cute

Muy collies love to camp and make excellent camping dogs. They are quiet and don't usually get too vocal, except for Tessa, who likes to bark at people. Fortunatey both like to go for walks but their heavy coats can get burrs etc. in them, so there is the brushing out chore if that happens. Course same said for shelties, Retrievers and other long haired breeds. If you do a lot of walking, a larger, midsized breed might be better cause the smaller breeds having shorter legs tire easier, course you can pick them up and carry them which I see a lot of. Working in a state park, I see dogs in all shapes and sizes. Guess it boil down to which breed catches you fancy. If you have a liking toward a particular breed, go for it.No dog is a born camper, hiker. It's the training, the travel and being with you that makes them so.

Thanks for your suggestions, opinions, etc. It is appreciated.

I traveled with two (now one) dogs ... both small. I'd consider one larger dog -- but space is at a premium in RVs.

As an aside, I know some RV parks have breed / weight restrictions for dogs -- I suppose to keep out more dangerous breeds.

I just have to say this. Whatever breed you get, I am a believer in RESCUE. And also I'm in favor of a mature dog that already has had some training. I just don't have the patience to housebreak. I admire those who handle that well, but I just have not been especially good at it. If they have been "started", I can usually do an adequate job of "finishing'". I just use praise and love to reinforce their "GOOD" behaviour where pottying is concerned,, as well as ALL other good behaviour.

I love my boston for the fact that she barks VERY little. I use to say NONE, but every once in a while I hear a "WOOF" or 2 out of her, if someone comes to the door, or deer come up to the yard fence. BUt she DOESN"T set up a howl like some of my friends' dogs, which are other breeds, of the excessively barking variety.

Keep your eyes open when you go looking for a pet and watch how they react to EVERYTHING around them.

Best of luck and let us know what you decide, by posting pics... of course!