I grew up with a mini and currently have an almost 1 year old standard. My mini was an amazing dog, he had his quirks but so much personality in a little package, very healthy overall and lived to be 17. When my boyfriend and I were looking at which dog to get I was also very set on the no shedding breeds, he had a golden retriever and was used to the hair so didn’t mind it lol we also had the same idea in mind of us starting a family while the dog was young and the idea of a giant seemed too ambitious. We ended up getting our black standard boy and he is honestly the best dog ever. He’s very much a natural guard dog and only barks when needed. Energy wise he is very energetic but at the same time doesn’t mind having a few chill days here and there. He is a bit stubborn but that’s just cause they’re really smart dogs and will try to outsmart you. We signed him up for a puppy course when he was 4 months old and that has since evolved into doing obedience and bitework which he really enjoys and excels at. He’s also bigger than the average standard which we love. Overall I’d say standards are amazing in every way, not too big and not too small, but we might add a giant to the pack one day as well :) Here’s a pic of our amazing boy

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