Temperament
Gentle, Affectionate, Playful, Biddable.
Health problems to know about
- Hip dysplasia
- Chinook seizures (a movement disorder)
- Cryptorchidism
- Allergies
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.
Daily care
Daily exercise, ideally including pulling sports, hiking or swimming. Weekly brushing, more during the twice-yearly shed. Early loose-lead training, because adults pull hard.
A good fit for
Active families with children and other dogs, especially in cooler climates and homes where someone is around most of the day.
Probably not ideal for
People wanting a guard dog, small flats, or owners out all day (separation anxiety is common).
Sources
Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.
