Hi BB,
Thanks for the advice, much appreciated. I am not sure about what breed because going to the shelter leaves several options open but I am looking for a large sized dog and depending on the breed I might not want anything older than 6 months.
For example I would not get a 'Lassie' collie or a husky when older than 6 months because they have already started to develop their own character, often based on how good their trainer is. For several breeds anything older than 18 months would be an absolute no-go just because of this (especially for these two breeds and chow-chows).
In the case of a German shepherd or a pointer I would gladly make an exception to this rule, especially when female dogs but generally I would like the dog to have the opportunity to grow and learn the habits of the master, developing a character in line with mine. Personally I would love to rescue any husky from the shelter life, they do not belong in this climate but better in a house with a nice garden and a master who goes to jog 45'/day at least (or walk even longer when the heat is like now) but it is a breed just slightly too difficult once their character has been formed. I know people will/might disagree with this but I also have to feel well and believe in being able to make a positive impact on the dog, more than providing a garden, shadow and food. I know this breed rather well and personally I would label it 'too dangerous a call to make' and not feel well if I came home with an older pup/dog.
Actually, I even don't want to go and visit and come home with a dog, instead I hope to be able to visit several times and see if the dog already starts developing a bond. I know that due to the popularity of shelters, and the background of many a dog in shelters, it doesn't always go that way and dogs need more time but if, it's a massive bonus.
Even though I said that going to a shelter 'leaves several options open', I am only open to a limited selection of breeds and certainly not in a rush. I'm only 35 and have lots of time to find a dog and enjoy the garden and the landscape and nature with. I do know though that the house I am at is big enough and so is the garden area and there's lots of free roaming area plus abundant shadow and shelter space for the dog to find a not too hot spot. There's even already the paddling pool and several garden hoses.
Glad to hear that you have found a great dog and are enjoying your time with the dog!