What is a good kind of dog to get?

Question

There are 3 adults, one in college but here for the summers, and I'm 13...we have 2 cats, one that doesn't like change too much, and the other one doesn't really care. We need a breed that should be well mannered and all that kind of stuff...so what do you think?

Answer 1

Try out this website http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/search.htm
This is a breed selector quiz. It will help you determine the right kind of dog for you and your family. It bases it's criteria on living environment, other pets, children, etc. Give it a try. Everyone will have an opinion on the best breed of dog, but it's not necessarily the best for you.

Answer 2

Well,
first of all,you really should know that taking a dog in your house is a BIG responsibility,and nothing like having cats.Dogs aren't as easy as cats.You need to "potty train" them,you need to walk them 3 times a day at least,no matter the weather conditions,they don't like to be alone,they need a lot of attention,they need baths,they need more shots(especially in the beginning) and they cost a lot of money.Also you should always take the size of the dog into consideration,I mean if your house isn't really big you should prefer a small breed.
If you decide you are up to the challenge,congrats!!!Dogs are perfect companions and choosing the right breed that fits the most in your family is very important.The first thing you should think about is how will your cats react if you introduce a new member of your family.Still,time heals all wounds,and even if your cats never become best friends with your dog they will find a way to get along.I think it's smart to get a puppy,cause then your cats won't feel threatened,I mean it won't change the hierarchy of the household.
You should get books with different kind of breeds,see what you like and what you think best fits in your household.Still take into consideration that all dogs have their own personalities just like humans,and even though there are breeds that are "kinder" for example the Labradors(Golden retrievers,Labrador retrievers,and Chesapeake bay retrievers) that still is no guarantee that your dog will be nice.I would also recommend you to visit your vet,he/she knows your cats,so his/hers advise could proof usefull.
Consider going to your nearest pound,dogs in pounds are often very nice,allready used to cats and really really beautiful.They also are often more loyal than pureblooded breeds,because they are familiar with the cruelty of man and are therefore very grateful for the love,care and attention you will give them.Also take into consideration that stray dogs are more resistant to diseases than pureblooded dogs,because of the constant inbreedings that make weak genes pass to the next generations.
Good luck with finding the best dog for you,and never forget to take it to the vet regularly and give him all the shots it needs so it can be there by your side for many years to come.And be certain that it will just do that,whatever kind of dog you'll choose.

Answer 3

I am 13 too. I have a golden retriever and he is the most polite dog I have ever had. He is trustworthy, and we can leave him alone in the house without having to worry about him going on our carpet. We trained when he was small not to go on the white carpet and he never has! We don't even have a divider. I have also never heard of a Golden biting, and they are so gentle and patient with little ones. They are always calm and do not jump. They will not run away. They are easy to train and also are the cutest puppy kind that there is! Just look up GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPPIES on google image and you will see!

Answer 4

Make list of a few breeds you all like.
Then check out www.akc.org
Read the information about each breed. How well they do with other small animals and their exercise needs and activity needs. How much grooming and such. How much vet care and medical problems the breed has.
Then match up one or two that fit your needs and lifestyle and go from there.
If you are not very active do not get a very active breed that requires tons of exercise and wonder why do the dog dig out of the yard and chew up everything is sight.
Pick one that will fit in with your lifestyle and ability to provide training and time with thedog.
Good luck in your search.

Answer 5

We have a bassett hound.........we love the breed. They are not what you think. They do love to be active, walks etc. Very loving dog, and ours does OK with our cat. We will own bassetts from now on. Dogs only become well mannered if you train them to be well mannered. You may look into a local shelter

Answer 6

i think a golden retreiver. they are good with people and a gentle breed. they are pretty easy to train and are very smart. the only problem i would say is that during the spring they shed a lot of hair and they are pretty big. but they are a really friendly kind of dog and fun to take care of. also i'm sure they will make good friends with your cats.

Answer 7

I am into shelties!I have had mine for for about 4 years.Thier the best dogs for kids,cats,and all kinds of animals.I have never known one to bite.I think you should definatly go with a sheltie!
I'm a 12 year old girl that loves shelties.They are highly intelligent.Also, they are not a 1 person dog.They love to have alot of attintion.

Answer 8

I'd say start by going to local animal shelters. Even if you prefer to buy from a breeder in the end, that will let you get hands-on experience with different breeds and see which kind might fit your family best.

Answer 9

I have had a labrador retriever and an english bulldog which were both well-mannered and easy-going dogs.

Answer 10

well labs are a great breed, but if you want a big dog a great dane i love.. But if you want a little sog a boston terrier is cool i love them too.