[quote=new2neos]Thanks to ALL who have responded in an informative way to my thread! I appreciate your breed suggestions.[/quote] Lynnicks: :) Hi there. You know me Lynn, from IL Col, and from Undergroundmastino. I do not believe I've posted this same question (re which breed of guard dog is right for me) on this board. ? I did a search under my sign on name, and could find no such thread. I DID post whether or not the NEO would be right for us, on either Il Col or UndergrdM. Maybe that is what you were referring to? In either event, you gave me the same lecture re my Tzu and NOT favoring her over the new large pup. :wink: I took everything you said to heart, and assured you then (as I am now) that I would NEVER favor one over the other, regardless of whether the new pup was a poodle, another Tzu, a Neo, or whatever. However, although I will love both and care for both "the same", I cannot (nor should I be expected to) "treat" each exactly the same. The Tzu is 100% companion, ONLY. She wears bows in her hair, and wears fancy color coordinated harnesses. LOL You wouldn't expect me to treat a Neo, or a PYR, or a GSD that way, would you? NO. One is a small fluffy who will need special care to protect her from physical harm. The other is a guard dog breed, who also needs to be respected and treated as such. I, too, understand that I must be "alpha" over both dogs; not allowing them to try and gain rank over each other. These lessons have all be learned. I am not sure why you think/thought I didn't "get it", but be reassured that I do. To refresh your memory, we researched the Neo and Mastiff since 1996! In 12 years, we have not rushed to purchase. Please do not worry that I would shower the smaller one with all the love, and treat the larger dog as a far second! I'll cherish them both the same, but I will also treat each breed according to their respective "needs" and breed requirements. Thanks again for your response, Lynn. And I appreciate your opinion in regard to a Bullmastiff. We've considered this breed for 4 years now, and am a member on a few of their breed boards. I just need to find some reputable breeders to speak with that are located near my area. ************************************* Pam It was not a lecture and Im sorry you took it that way, although biting back at people doesnt help you find answers to your questions. My response was not getting at you owning a small dog, I have owned many from rescue in the past. Even negitive answers you can find 'your answer'. All responses should be considered with an open mind. 12 years researching breeds is a very long time and you could do it for another 12 years and still not find what you are looking for. ALL dogs have good sides and bad sides. You have to find the one that suites your circumstances. And even then you cannot always garantee it will suit. There is a member on UGM that dresses her Neo up so maybe its the breed for you. Just joking I know what you meant. As for the Boerbull I wasnt saying a woman couldnt handle one I just think when you first get one it is a 24/7 job training one. If you dont work fine but that would be up to you, but without total dedication they can turn on you or your other animals. Boerbulls live in South Africa on farms and large properities. IMO not suited to your lifestyle. Yes I have owned Bullmastiffs and I think they are great dogs and seem to fit in to what you want. Good Luck Lynn ***************************************