>>509668They need a strong pack leader, lots of exercise and lots of mental stimulation as they are very intelligent. Also best to socialize them with other dogs at an early age otherwise their dominant nature will lead them to attack every other dog they see.
As I said, they have a strong prey instinct too so best not to have them around small animals though they can be socialized with cats if they are around them from day 1. The strong leadership really comes into play when they are /out/ as you have to be able to over-ride that prey instinct I mentioned. If you're not firmly in charge and they spot a rabbit or a bird on the ground, or even sheep, they will be after them like a shot which can get them into dangerous situations. They will test your dominance and they have a stubborn streak too so be aware that retaining your pack dominance is an on-going process. They come as short-haired too which require much less grooming. Ted is the wire-haired breed so he gets clipped out every 3 months or so but his fur is prone to collecting mud, brambles, thorns, twigs etc when /out/.
A great little companion though! Hilarious, brave, entertaining, loving, clever, great with people and children alike. Top doge!
