recommendations on large to medium sized dogs for a family?

Question

some allergys, low maintenance

Answer 1

Consider adopting a retired racing greyhound. They run between 50-100lbs, are a single coated breed(low shedding) and have very low energy requirements. They are quite happy being leash walked and can also be allowed to run in fenced areas. Greyhounds have been handled from the day they are born and retire as extremely well socialised dogs. They *always* look to humans as a leader, they are crate trained (translates very well to house training) and leash trained. Greyhounds have not been exposed to other breeds of dogs, small animals and some household experiences such as stairs and hardwood floors. There is usually a transition period when a dog comes off the track but most greys adapt very well to their retirements. Check out http://www.greyhoundpets.org for more information on the breed and for links to adoption chapters by state.

Answer 2

Take your family to the local Humane Society or Animal Shelter and make a day of it. There are plenty of good, lovable dogs that need homes! The good thing about adopting a pet from a place like this is that they've already had their behaviour, temperment, and attitude evaluated. You won't get a dog that is food aggressive, or people shy. These dogs may be older, but getting an adult dog when you have a family is the best way to go! I'm sure you all are busy and don't have the time to train a puppy. These dogs sometimes have basic skills, and most are potty trained. Your children won't love him any less because he isn't a puppy! At the shelter you guys can take dogs for walks, and spend time getting to know him. The shelter staff will know the dog well and can answer important questions about him. This is the way I recommend you get a dog. Plus, as an added bonus, all shelter dogs are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines. Some even come microchipped! I hope you find your perfect dog!

Answer 3

I would recommend a small sized dog or medium sized because bigger dogs are OK but Ive had bad experiences with the big dogs but if you get a large sized dog I would get a Labrador retriever they are nice but little dogs are good dogs for family's

Answer 4

There is no one breed or mix that is perfect for a family.Each dog even within the same breed and even same litter is indivdual. A lot depends on how good the breeder is, how well socialized and how well trained the dog is. I would suggest checking out shelters & rescues, meeting several dogs and letting them meet your family as well. Many times the best dogs and family companions are found right at the local shelters.

Answer 5

Black lab Golden retriever Mix, (a.k.a. Flatcoats in many areas)

They shed little, are EXTREMELY friendly, easy to train WONDERFUL PETS! My Dad got two when I was 9 years old, One of which is still around today. (I am 24) We fostered humane society dogs as well and our lab/retrievers were friendly with ALL people, pets and children! Just make sure what ever breed you go with you get it as a pup (like at 8 weeks). So many times it isn't the BREED of dog you get, its how they are raised. Both my best dogs have been mixes that we got at 8 weeks or younger. We found one at a year and it was the absolute worst dog we ever had. We fostered it for a year before he finally found the perfect home.

GOOD LUCK!

Answer 6

With allergies in the family, a standard Poodle might be a good possibility, but they aren't necessarily low maintenance dogs. Many people who are allergic to other breeds can often tolerate Poodles.

I have a friend whose grandson is violently allergic to my double-coated German shepherd but who has no signs of distress around the family's Black Lab. Again, Labs can be high energy dogs that need plenty of exercise.

I suggest talking to a local vet that you know and trust. Often they can make recommendations based on years of working with the various breeds. Good luck, and I hope you find the perfect pet!

Answer 7

If there are allergies to be concerned about, I'd recommend a going to a dog show, (small, local dog shows go on year round) you can roam around and see different kinds of dogs AND see if the allergies react.

Answer 8

I have just had to answer that question for myself, and I chose a standard poodle. She is so smart, and really low maintenance. All she needs is a bath every 5 -7 days, walking, food and water, and to be groomed monthly. At three months old, she weighs about 28 lbs, is almost potty-trained, and follows simple commands (ie..sit, stay, etc). Best of all, no shedding, which is bad for allergies.

Bathing her is fun, because she loves the tub or the shower, and she really wants to please her master. Just have a bunch of chewys for her/him. She has yet to chew furniture or other durables.

Good luck and get ready to love your new pet.

Answer 9

Labs are good since they are short haired and also females seem to be gentler so they seem to me at least to be better for family expecially with young kids. As to how old you should get them i say 6-8 mnths since they are past the nipping stage yet could still be very well trained (another attribute of labs). just with labs they have a tendancy of arthiritis when they age.

Answer 10

Check out the www.akc.org - the first breed that comes to mind is the poodle. However there are a few breeds that will fit your family. Have a look and check out the breed clubs in your area. Good luck!

TDK