I've raised dogs all my life and I've only adopted mixed breed dogs from shelters since I've been on my own.
I train them using positive techniques and repetition. Currently have 3 dogs. All are mixed breeds and are 10, 8, and 6 years old. The older 2 are 80 lbs each and the younger female is 52 lbs. The oldest dog is the one in the pic. She is very well trained and she communicates her needs/wants VERY clearly. The male has a seizure disorder and ocd due to his meds. But he's so friendly and calm that I've used him to tow kids in wheelchairs. He loves doing that and hearing the kids squeal and laugh. The youngest dog was severely abused prior to being put into a high-kill shelter so she was really nervous around obese people and small dogs. She quickly became very bonded to me and is like my lap cat. Now she's doing much better. The worst she'll do is get right next to me and give them some side eye to let me and them know that she's nervous (always because of very loud talking and they way they approach us) so I'll intervene, explain what to do, then tell them to ignore her until she's relaxed and ready to mingle which usually takes a few minutes. I've come across idiots that didn't listen to me so I kept her leash close and walked away from them. I always walk away and ignore those morons cuz I won't take the chance that they rightfully get bit then my dog gets killed for defending themselves and me.
It also describes my personality. I'm easy-going but that can change instantly based on how you act. I'm very loyal and protective of my family, I love being outdoors, and can be as tenacious as a dog with a bone. :shibe: <-- Me