I have 2 dobes--Darmok who just turned 3 last month, ansd Sasha who just turned 2 last month. I've had Dar since she was a tiny little 7 1/2 week old baby, and Sasha came to me from a relative who no longer could take care of her (or himself, but that's another story!) Dar has been to several obedience classes, an agility class, and has her CGC. She is totally the smartest dog I have ever owned. Sasha has some 'issues' and we are making slow progress, but positive progress, anyway! I have had at least one dobie in my life for the past 25 years, and intend to ALWAYS have a dobe!