Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi we just picked up Toby this morning at the Humane Society. They tell us he's around 5 months old and is a Shepherd mix. Any thoughts on what breeds are mixed here?

I know we've only had him for 1 day, but my impressions so far are that he is a VERY calm dog. No running around like a nut, no biting or chewing anything, no jumping all over people. When you take him out on the leash for a walk he doesn't drag you down the street. Just walks very calmly beside you, always wanting to be aware of where you are. He's enjoyed going outside, throwing a ball, and chewing a bone (and eating and drinking!), but he also seems content to just be in the room with the family relaxing.

Any thoughts are appreciated.

You'll have a better idea of his personality after about two weeks, but then there is maturity to watch for, too. Chances are he is tired and open to learning about your home and family now. Be careful when you take him on walks to not let other dogs get in his face or scare him.

He could be great! That's a pretty good age. But you do have adolescence to get through, and there will be challenges. Get him in class as soon after you've had him for two weeks as your veterinarian approves.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47

Sounds like a nice pup you got there! You can definitely see some German Shepherd in his face. My thought is possibly some Pit Bull too (from the shorter coat & brindle color). Anyway, he is a very handsome puppy.
staffordmom

GSD and boxer maybe?

There are DNA kits available now that let you find out the answer to your question. Ask your vet and it's an easy test that they send out to get results.

He's a very attractive dog- I like the brindle coloring.
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Chelle and the rest of the crew including, but not limited to Kita and Taiko (the shiba inu wrestle maniacs), Adi (reserved and dignified tabby cat), and all 28 reptiles

Seems to me you have a great example of what I call the Heinz 57 variety. A classic mutt. I have two such. He is probably the result of generations of stray dog breeding and shows physical traits of many breeds. The bad news is a genetic test might not come to anything conclusive, but the good news is, that these dogs seem to be healthier longer and without genetic dispositions than many pure or cross breeds suffer from. He looks like a great dog, and as previously mentioned he is just settling in and learning his place in your pack. Once he is at home and confident, you'll see the behaviour you'de expect from a 5 month old.