Cute to you may be ugly to someone else.. First decide what you like and dislike in the looks, size, disposition and amount of care.. If you like long hair some breeds are non shedding but require regular clipping.. Short hair requires little effort to keep it looking nice but generally sheds regularly. Wirey coats usually wont shed as much but feel kinda funky when you pet them. How much can you afford to spend on a dog is also a factor.. Once you have an idea of what suits you and your home then don't forget to check out the local animal shelter, specific breed rescue clubs and even private breeders that may have retired breeding stock looking for homes.. Your local veterinarian can also help you to determine if a breed your interested in is prone to serious health issues.. There are many dog owners that would have chosen differently had they asked the vet BEFORE purchasing the anumal.. Mixed breed dogs are often healthier in the long run but as pups it can be hard to determine size and temperment as adult dogs.. Good luck and remember a pet is for life.. Never treat an animal as if they are disposable when you don't feel you have the time or desire to care for them.. They have feelings just like we do... Good Luck!!
2006-08-20 09:35:28
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answer #1
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answered by southernfriedblondie 3
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When choosing a dog, you need to consider your personality and lifestyle as well as the dog's, and make sure they mesh well. Here are some web pages and books that can help you.
Two articles from the About.com section on dogs (lots of good advice in this whole web site):
"How Do I Choose the Dog That's Right for Me?" from Krista Mifflin ().
"Choosing a Suitable Dog - One that fits your lifestyle" from Marion Herbertson ()
Some books to look for (your library might have them):
"Paws to Consider: Choosing the Right Dog for You and Your Family" by Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson, ISBN: 0446521515. [A]
"The Right Dog for You" by Daniel E. Tortora, ISBN: 067147247X. An animal psychiatrist looks at physical, behavioral and temperamental qualities of 100+ breeds and gives a step-by-step procedure for selecting a dog matching your personality and lifestyle. [A, WM]
"The Chosen Puppy: How to Select and Raise a Great Puppy from an Animal Shelter" by Carol Lea Benjamin, ISBN: 0876054173. Even if they have been victims of abuse, this book gives advice on how to raise shelter puppies so they grow up happy and confident. Includes testing procedures to help you find the right puppy. [A, WM]
[A] Available at Amazon
[WM] Available at Wal-Mart
Good luck finding a great doggy companion!
2006-08-20 10:04:26
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answer #2
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answered by InquiringMinds 2
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Selcting a dog is kind like selecting underwear.... Very personal. Try Skye Terrier and some other small Terriers. They are usullay very smart... Do you have children??? Do you live in Yukon??? Apartement? A farm? A war zone? Not an easy question...
2006-08-20 09:28:30
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answer #3
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answered by Jose R 2
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Go to the Purina website and take the questionnaire. It will help you decide which dog is right for you and give you like the top 5 for you. Good luck.
2006-08-20 09:28:38
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answer #4
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answered by bcringler 4
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Yorkie poodle bichon shih-tzu are all nice inside dogs. Read about their personalities and habits and get the one that matches you the best.
2006-08-20 09:34:20
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answer #5
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answered by shortansassy 4
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Get yourself an all-breed dog book, look through it and find photos of dogs you like, then you research those breeds to find the one that suits your life style, energy level, the amount of time you're willing to spend grooming, health problems, etc.
2006-08-20 10:56:06
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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Uhm get a shih-tzu then I've had two the second was a mix with something else but they stay pretty small and are pretty cute.
2006-08-20 09:42:38
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answer #7
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answered by slam2900 2
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Carin terrier (Toto dog of The Wizard of Oz)!! I have one and I love her so much!! They're not yappy dogs, they're small, they're cute, and they love to loved!! GET A TERRIER!!! They are the smartest dog group ever! I also love dauchshunds and mini schnauzers!!
2006-08-20 09:29:41
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answer #8
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answered by JeSuSrOcKz! 3
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My mom just got a Snorkie. Mini Snauser and Yorkie - too cute and very smart.
2006-08-20 09:23:57
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answer #9
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answered by Starlight 5
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Havanese
2006-08-20 09:24:55
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answer #10
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answered by murphy 5
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