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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]We have two pointer/terrier mixes from rescue.  They are brothers.  Pointers are excellent with children, and when you mix them with terrier they don't shed.  Try and get a dog from rescue that is 6 months or older, and try for a shepherd/collie mix, pointer mix or if you want a smaller dog a poodle mix.  I would steer away from lab mixes right now as our rescue is receiving more and more of them that are mixed with pit.  For experienced dog owners the pitties are the greatest dogs, but for a beginner, get a friendly, low stress dog.[/quote]

Unless you do DNA testing, ANY mixed breed dog could have pit mixed in.  So exercise caution.

I have found that shelters and pounds aren't very reliable in their breed identification.  So, really, look for characteristics that might indicate the dog is a pit and don't rely on what the shelter says.

In fact, I think a lot of shelters knowingly falsely identify dogs as a "lab mix" or a "husky mix" or a "shepherd mix" when they suspect pit bull mixed in.  But they don't want to stigmatize the dog.

The problem with this is that it is unsafe and irresponsible.  Pit bulls aren't necessarily bad.  But even the nicest pit bull needs a really experienced, knowledgeable owner.  Because that breed was bred to fight other dogs.  They can NEVER be trusted around other dogs without close supervision.  And they were also bred to hold on when they bite.  That combined with their strength is a dangerous mix, even when diluted in a mixed breed dog.

Terriers actually have the same tendency -- to hold and shake when they bite.  If you're concerned about biting, a terrier or terrier mix is probably not the best avenue.  [/quote]

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