Liz Wants a Dog - NOW!

In case you haven't heard, I want a dog. I'm pretty paranoid that someone is trying to break into my little apartment. Now there are several reasons for this. 1) I watch a LOT of murder mysteries. 2) I have a vivid imagination. 3) My ex still has a key. 4) The guy who lives above me looks (and sometimes acts) like he could be a creepy sex offender. He even has the sex offender stash. Um, dude upstairs, Sex Offender September is O-V-E-R. Please shave. Just to name a few....

Well, I've been doing a little looking today after many phone calls with my dad about dogs and I've narrowed it down to a few dogs. I also read this really great article from Woman's Day, which I'm also including in this post. You can link to the article here or just read below:

10 Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

Learn which canines rank highest on the I.Q. scale

By R. Ann Sipper Posted June 15, 2009 from Associated Content

Choosing an intelligent dog breed is important for a variety of reasons. Among other considerations, a dog's level of intelligence helps indicate how easy it will be to train and how much attention it will require from you. Here are 10 of the most intelligent dog breeds.
1. Shetland sheep dog
This breed widely is accepted as one of the smartest. It was bred to wrangle sheep and cattle, a job that requires a high level of brain function. More than anything else, these dogs enjoy attention from people.
2. Doberman pinscher
Dobermans are loyal dogs known for being easy to train and their great skill range. While Doberman pinschers' temperaments can vary greatly, they are loyal dogs that work well in a family setting, despite their intimidating appearances.
3. Golden retriever
A golden retriever's intellect often is reflected in its ability to obey its masters. Golden retrievers use this wonderful affinity for obedience to excel at performing tricks.
4. Border collie
This is one of those intelligent dog breeds that makes the top of the list. However, it requires an active pet owner and lifestyle. Border collies require large yards and lots of activity, and they are masterful at showcasing their skills in dog shows and on farms.
5. Poodle
The poodle loves to be around people. These dogs are known for being easy to train and willing to learn new skills. These qualities make poodles excellent participants in dog shows and wonderful companions at home.
6. Rottweiler
While these dogs' intimidating nature is well-known, rottweilers are regarded as some of the most intelligent guard dogs available. They are intensely loyal to their families and are known for their willingness to be trained.
7. German shepherd They may be best recognized for their athletic abilities and bravery, but German shepherds also rank high in the intelligence department. Their ability to function as protective guard dogs stems from their ability to easily be trained.
8. Labrador retriever
When you are looking for a dog that is good-natured and intelligent, the Labrador retriever is a breed that jumps to the top of the list. They make wonderful family dogs, but Labrador retrievers do require attention from their owners, regular exercise and a controlled diet. Their inviting appearances make them particularly popular with families.
9. Australian cattle dog
When you want an easy-to-train dog that can handle a high level of activity, the Australian cattle dog is probably you're best fit. Like the border collie, these dogs were bred to herd cattle and require a high level of activity. This makes them perfect for active families with big yards.
10. Papillon
The tiny papillon is the last of the smartest dogs on this list. Many small dogs are known for their feisty natures. This is not the case with the papillon, which is easy to train and well-known for its affinity for people.

Well, at least I like one smart dog...the handsome and dashing golden retriever. Always one of my personal favorites! Anyways, here are my top list of dogs (in NO SPECIFIC ORDER):

1. Newfoundland - Now yes, Taylor had one of these, but I have to say Indiana is the SWEETEST dog I've ever met. He's also the drooliest dog I've ever met. I think if he was better groomed and more hydrated he may be less drooly, but don't hold me to that.

2. Retriever - I love Golden Retrievers, specifically because they're pretty fun to be around and they seem to have a good temperament. Now I know they are rather costly because if you get a pure-bred then you get papers and all that jazz, but come on, how can you say no to these adorable little faces?!

3. Great Pyrenees - They look a LOT like Newfoundlands, but they're sheephearding dogs. They are from mountainous areas and work with different types of livestock, including sheep, llamas, and wolves. Wolves?! Yeah, pretty sure this dog could eat your face off - total added bonus for Liz.

4 - Airedel Terrior. My dad had one of these growing up. He said it was the best dog, E-V-E-R. Loyal. Protective. Dedicated. Just what I'm looking for. I'm just not quite sure what I think of it's little snout though, but still looks and sounds like the kind of protector I'm looking for.

So, those are my current choices for a dog. Yeah, none of them will be exceptionally cheap and I'm not really sure Claudine will let me even HAVE a dog here, but well, she let creepy guy move in and she knows how badly he scares me - and won't make him move. It's really me + dog or him. Regardless of what kind of dog I end up getting, I just want to feel like this with my dog when I get her...

...happy and excited beyond belief! I want a best friend. I've already lost mine this year and living without one is pretty rough. I need something that when I come home it's happy to see me, loves me for me - with or without make up, and will be there for me even when I do something stupid or cry or laugh so hard I squeak and won't just walk out on me when life is hard. I guess that's the other reason I need a dog, because I can't find a person who's like that.