best puppy to get with toddlers - least shedding, too?

Question

I am not a big dog person. I am a stay at home mom with a 3 1/2 year old and a 15 mos old. My husband and oldest really want a dog. I don't want another being to clean up after and potty train. But, I know that there is a special bond between a "boy and his dog" so I'm willing to get one. However, I want to find one that is great with kids, doesn't shed much or at all (is that possible?), isn't too big and is easily trained and house broken.

Suggestions?

Answer 1

Honestly, consider if you REALLY want to get a dog. No matter what hubby and kids say, it's almost always the mother of the family that ends up with the bulk of the work and responsibility for the dog (or any pet). If you are not a dog lover to begin with, you are NOT going to be happy with this.

Consider also that having a puppy is almost like having another toddler, work-wise. Puppies do not raise themselves and need constant supervision, guidance and training.

If you decided to get a dog, I'm not going to recommend a specific breed because that is a very personal choice. My personal favourite, the basset hound, is great for me because they're a largish size while not being too tall, intelligent, affectionate, easy going nature, very friendly with people and generally very good with children and relatively low maintenance. On the other hand, other people would hate them because they shed, drool, have an odor, are very stubborn and difficult to housebreak and require a secure yard because they tend to wander.

To help select a breed I suggest visiting the next dog show in your area where you can meet a variety of breeds in person and talk to the people who actually own one (keeping in mind that everyone think that their breed is the best). Responsible breeders care about their puppies ending up in the right home, and will want you to be aware of the breed's drawbacks as well as positive attributes.

Another good idea is to consider an older dog from a rescue rather than a puppy. This way you are helping out a dog in need, you're past those annoying puppy antics and you can see what the dog's personality is and how it interacts with your kids. The housebreaking will probably be already done, and a good rescue will be able to advise you on any problems you might have, as well as whether that breed or that particular dog will fit into your household.

BTW, in my experience a dog either sheds or needs frequent trips to the groomer. For example, poodles don't usually shed, but they need a trip to the groomer every 2-3 months.

At any rate, take your time and don't rush into anything. You are selecting a living, feeling creature who will hopefully be a member of your family for 10-15 or more years, so think of the future and not just right now. A little extra time spent researching your decision will be well worth it in the long run.

Answer 2

Adopt an older dog, golden retreivers are really gentle with younger children. If you get a dog over three years old, not only will he most likely be potty trained, but will also have the knowledge to be careful around small children. You will still want to take him to an obedience class but every dog should go through that. if you don't really need a purebred dog look at animal shelters. Older dogs are usually the first to be put down cause everyone wants a puppy, but they deserve some happy years too.

Answer 3

Hi! A great breed of dog to try for that situation is a cockapoo- funny name, but is a mix between a cocker spaniel and a poodle. Not a high maintence dog at all, very loving and friendly, and very very playful. I have one and they are small dogs, not too tiny but not a big dog either- perfect to hold and play with. They don't shed and it's pretty easy to tire them out. Great breed, lots of personality, and lots of love. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

great breed of dog to try for that situation is a cockapoo- funny name, but is a mix between a cocker spaniel and a poodle. Not a high maintence dog at all, very loving and friendly, and very very playful. I have one and they are small dogs, not too tiny but not a big dog either- perfect to hold and play with. They don't shed and it's pretty easy to tire them out. Great breed, lots of personality, and lots of love. Hope this helps.

Answer 5

I would suggest a sheltie. They look like miniture collies. They do have long hair, but they are great with kids!! I grew up around them. They train very easily. You won't have to worry too much about giving them a bath if you let them be house dogs because they don't like water!! They aren't very big, come up to your knees maybe. They aim to please you and your famil and will make a great companion to the who family. For more information about them, there are great books on Amazon about shelties.

i wouldn't suggest a cocer because I know I got attacked by my aunts cocer (spanial) at 5 yrs old. They aren't the friendliest dog. I also wouldn't sugguest a pitbull. Those are a dangerous breed. Fighting is in their blood.

Answer 6

I would suggest a poodle or any variation of the "new" poodle/cross breeds. One reason the poodle mixed breeds are becoming so popular is because the poodle is supposed to be a very smart dog that sheds hardly at all.

Good luck!!

Answer 7

Well I have a toy poodle, and he doesn't shed at all. However, he does need to be groomed about every 4 to 6 weeks, like most other dogs who dont shed.

Answer 8

my experience with smaller dogs is that they have always been a little nippy. the best dog for around children is unfortunately a big dog. a golden retriever. they do shed but when kept brushed and groomed not to bad. they are a very loving dog and you could not ask for a better dog for around children. they love to play ball and like to think they are lap dogs. good luck!!!!

Answer 9

Well, I know it isnt the best dog to get but I would say a dachshund. ONLY if you can teach the kids how to hold them properly without hurting there back. Dachshunds can get really playful but wouldnt hurt the kids. I let my dachshund play witha 15 month old and they do great together. sure, he they might pounce on eachother but they both were loving it. plus dachshunds loveeeeeee people!!! but i would be careful because of their backs

Answer 10

Yorkie