We’ve since realized that Obi is a mix of Rottweiler, Husky, and German Shepard.  That makes him a Working Dog Breed all around:  (Rottweiler) Good natured, not nervous, aggressive or vicious; courageous, obedient, with natural guarding instincts. (Siberian Husky) Friendly and gentle, alert and outgoing. Does not display traits of the guard dog, not suspicious with strangers or aggressive with dogs but some measure of reserve expected in mature dog. Intelligent, obedient and eager disposition. An agreeable companion and willing worker. (German Shepard) Steady of nerve, loyal, self-assured, courageous and obedient. Never nervous, over-aggressive or shy.

Knowing him better, we understand the odd readings we got when testing his temperament that first day.  He is confident and happy, but with his share of phobias.  He is outgoing, loves dogs and people equally, is obedient and submissive, smart but not too smart, has a big dog bark but he only uses it to alert us to someone approaching our “territory,” is playful but can get a bit too rowdy sometimes, will growl at things he’s never seen before (like the first person he saw wearing a bike helmet) or if he feels like he needs to protect you, and he is scared of loud noises (windstorms, vacuum cleaners, etc.).  He’s a big goof and I love him like crazy.  

© Salahub 2003