I'm looking to buy my first pedigree dog, having a nightmare?

Dog breeds were developed to perform different jobs - which are not always going to make them suitable as your pet. Boxers are actually very nervous and sensitive, and can be quite shy. They hate getting wet. It's what they are - sweet, but jumpy and not always brave...

Bullmastiffs can be far too much dog. Same with Dobies, and my vet is very wary of Dobies since many seem to be unpredictable. Again, not pet material.

You might look into Viszlas - if you run or have time to take your dog to a field. They are nice dogs, but very active. The males are bigger than the females, and perhaps could fit the bill. They're also hunting dogs, so they don't tend towards aggression or being territorial.

It may not be your thing, but a retired racing greyhound fits your needs perfectly - they are a bit of a cult dog, but the fact remains, this is a real athlete with a real pedigree and a real track record you can look up. Perfect on a leash, big, graceful, and really impressive when you let them run. You can make all the bar bets you want - your dog will likely outrun them all.

Look for the nearest Greyhound rescue group - sadly, they're overflowing with three years olds off the track, and dogs of varying ages that may have been returned as a result of the owners circumstances. They often live to be 16 or more, and are docile and some of the funniest dogs you'll ever meet. Highly recommended. Plus you save a life...cool deal all around.

Those are the two off the top of my head - you want the function, then the form.

First don't forget that purebred dogs are just dogs. They really aren't much different then the mixes that you've had most of your life except that you have an even better chance as to what you are getting. Breed traits like size, color, markings, temperament, etc. are fixed in purebreds. My best advice is to try and be around these breeds in person so that you have an understanding as to what they are. I'm not sure why you are feeling worse about buying a large pedigree dog. If you are worried about the shelter/pound situation, look into breed rescue.

Go to a rescue. All three of those breeds have so many dogs in rescue that they are trying to place. If you're willing to get a dog that isn't a puppy any more then you will have many to choose from, no doubt. A simple google search should be helpful. I also know that the Dogue de Bordeaux rescue has many dogs available as well and they are quite similar to the Bullmastiff.

"the more I read and explore these breeds the worse I feel about buying a large pedigree dog."

Might help if you explain that statement.

And this site is very honest about the pros and cons of various breeds: http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/dogbreeds/ . Also lists some of the health issues you should make sure your breeder screens for.

I'd advise that you visit a rehoming center like the dogs trust. They have both pedigree and non-pedigree dogs which come already neutered, micro chipped, covered with a month's worth of insurance and given flea and worming treatments to save you some money.

Hope this helps.

I agree that looking to get a dog from a breeder is scary thinking of what medical problems it could have. What's wrong with getting a cross breed?

I had a pure Dachshund. best thing ever. Dachshund also live for a long time too. I think their the greatest Dog ever. I would recommend a Dachshund. Dachshund aren't that big but I guess they count as big because they are really long, hence them being called Hot Dogs! :D

if you buy from a kennel club accredited breeder, you can be 99% sure they won't have any inbreeding problems, or health problems in general that are associated with being pedigrees.