Thanks guys, I have enjoyed all the opinions.
Stanky- truffle hunting consists of looking for truffle mushrooms that are usually hidden under pine needles. I have a buddy that taught his dog, and it's just something to do together. You can make money doing it, but like my disc golf hobby, I don't expect to make anything.
Does anybody have experience with German Shepherds at the course? I have actually looked into Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. I like them, but if I was telling somebody about my dog, I would refer to it as a mutt. Lol. I came back to GSD's because of the nose and there drive.
So first off, sorry about your loss. Its tough, and that's all that needs to be said.
I currently have a German Shepherd, he's great out on the course, but it wasn't always that way. He used to go after my discs, which is great if you're lost in the rough, but not when you have a great shot in the middle of the fairway. It took a major effort to break him of that, but he's been wonderful ever since.
That said, I just learned he has a spinal condition and I'll probably have to put him down within a year. To be honest, I don't think I'm gonna get another Shepherd, and here's why:
1) THE SHEDDING! Dude, it's constant, even if you brush every day, they'll still shed. It's ridiculous.
2) Shepherds evoke very emotional responses in people, and many are not happy emotions. They're intimidating dogs and people can be sketched out by them, which is completely understandable.
3) Separation Anxiety. I know not all shepherds have it, but both of mine have, and it's a MAJOR pain in the butt. Shepherds tend to be really focused and connected with their owners, which is awesome, until you realize they're going to break in the pantry, eat 10 lbs of random snacks, and then bust out of the house and run away just because you left them home for the afternoon.
4) THE SHEDDING! Its dumb.
But, I see you're over in Albany, if you ever come over to Bend and want to meet a discing shepherd, drop me a PM and we'll meet up. Best of luck on your search.