hmmm, u shouldn't start with a big dog. they're hard to control for inexperienced people. i've seen countless dog-owners with big dogs, who had to give it away, cuz they couldn't handle it. making them obedient takes time, and a strong hand! for a dog, YOU have to be the alpha, without any doubt! and that's not as easy as it sounds at first. just an advice from my expierience! ;)