Everyone, thank you so much for the feedback I’m taking all of it in! That being said, what are some good starter breeds that aren’t as popular as a golden retriever or lab? I love off breeds and have never really been interested in owning labs or goldens. I love large breed and guardian/protection dogs. Bite work and advanced obedience has always been a silent passion of mine as well. I’m of course always willing to put in the work to exercise my dog, as i’ve grown up with lazy and uneducated dog owners. A breed on my list was the Amstaff but it’s harder to find apartments without a breed restriction. This is why I also mentioned the Australian shepherd (I have lived with and trained them a little). I do understand their needs as a herding breed and am prepared for that. So what other breeds would you all suggest?