What kind of dog should she get?

Question

We have a 6 yo boy who would like to get a dog. Granted, I understand that it will be MORE of my responsibility, and I am ok with this.... but previously I have only had large dogs. The place we are in is a 2 bedroom condo, we already have 2 cats. There is not a lot of room for the dog to run, but the place is pretty big and we would plan on taking the dog out with us a lot.

So, I guess we are looking for a small - med dog - under 30 lbs that would be good with kids and other pets. Anyone have any ideas?

Answer 1

6 years old huh? Then this could be a passing whim. I BEGGED FOR YEARS and that is not the criteria, but it sure makes you appreciate alot more what you want when get you it. I had to wait until I was 13 and I don't think that was a bad age. It would not even hurt to test your son's determination or maybe I should say idea about this. Maybe some number of days and tasks before he can get a dog. I was bent for years on having one and determined to take sole care. Common, how much trouble can feeding twice a day and watering and walking be? I am here to tell you now that I was shocked how big of a pain in the pandora or whatever it was, it was for me when I was young. Most of the time, you are right-mom had to do it all. Ofcourse it was not like that the first few days or week or two but I sorely -and regretfully remember how much it interfered with my plans after that. I also remember about every day we had with the guy. He died of cancer when I was 27 years old. Most importantly tho, I remember all the dogs that neighborhood kids had that got outside or loose and hit by cars. Some died soon, some lingered and it was horrible. Honestly, i think 6 is too young, not just to be walking and caring for a dog but to able to keep it inside when it has to be and to watch doors so it doesn't get out but if you are bent to do this now, I also remember how many of the neighbor dogs I liked and what it felt like when I asked where is Peggy or Ginger only to learn they were sold to strangers or taken to the shelter because there was not time or space enough for them. Animals have feelings and are loyal, please be TOTALLY committed to the responsibility of one if you get one. I guess that brings me to another point which is that so far over 90% and close to all of the pets that are taken to shelters are killed. They call it euthenation. If you get a dog now or later, please save one from death row. By which you know i mean go to the shelter or humane society and I have a suggestion about that...people don't seem to want dogs after they are over a year old. After a year most are done chewing and ruining things, and they are done darting out when they are older or being wild like young dogs are. I thinik adopting a more mature dog is a much better idea. Ussually they are trained and housebroken not to mention that you can find out which ones were raised and get along well with cats because no matter what the breed is-it is personality too and not all dogs will accept cats. By the same token, not all cats will accept a dog but a cat is much more likely to if the dog is agreeable to them and not chasing them around the house or growling at them.

The breed is a more difficult question. Sometimes smaller dogs are quicker to bite out of fear and a stronger need to be in control. I guess the best house dogs for children are mostly know to be collies (so a miniture collie-called a boarder collie perhaps), or a medium sized cockerspaniel maybe. Another decent choide would be a schnauzer. They are one of the most intelligent and there is alot to be said for know when do something and when not to. They are very loving and not overly small...nor overly large. Remember that most cities have a limit of 2 or 3 pets per household so that no one comes and takes your beloved animal away. Vaccinations are a legal necessity and that they be kept up to date, for the pet's sake and the sake of people. Then last of all, make sure your landlord says it is ok first. Remember too it is difficult to find places that allow pets so keep in mind how permanent your stay will be where you are. And if you do this, I would by all means check the dogs out first on the net-most shelters advertize there with photos. Get an idea what is where and when you see appropriate choices it would be really nice to take your son and let him make the final decision. talk to other pet owners first and get a feel of what you want and what you are in store for.Remember that this actually is a big step so think it through well and best of luck. I love cats and dogs and am committed.

Answer 2

how about a beagle?
The Beagle is a gentle, sweet, lively and curious dog that just loves everyone! A happy little tail-wagger! Sociable, brave and intelligent. Calm and loving. Excellent with children and generally good with other dogs, but should not be trusted with non-canine pets, unless they are socialized with cats and other household animals when they are young. Beagles have minds of their own. They are determined and watchful and require patient, firm training. This breed doesn't like being left alone. Consider buying two if you will be gone a lot.
Height: Dogs 14-16 inches (36-41cm) Bitches 13-15 inches (33-38cm)
There are two height classes, 13-15 inches (33-38cm) and under 13 inches (33cm).
Weight: Dogs 22-25 pounds (10-11kg) females 20-23 pounds (9-10kg)

Answer 3

May not be your son's first choice, but shitzu's are all around good dogs. They are great with children (even toddlers), they are more family oriented then most small breed dogs, they love to play, and only need minimal walks. The only downside is grooming. You can keep the dog's hair short, puppy-cut, to avoid major grooming expense and time.

I have to say though, if I had to choose a dog regardless of size, I would have to say Labrador or Labradoodle. Both dogs are obedient and loving family/kid dogs - they just make wonderful companions. The Labradoodle's don't shed - which is my only complaint about the Labrador.

Good luck! I remember getting my first dog when I was about 5 years old. It's a great memory to share with your son! :)

Answer 4

I would suggest (because I have one) a miniature schnauzer. Small (usually around 20 lbs), they don't shed, and they don't require a large living area. I might be biased, but mini schnauzers seem to be easy to train, and have a load of personality! Also, they are solid, sturdy dogs, which would be good when playing with a 6 yo boy! :)

I'm sure you'll get a million different answers on what dog to get, but as long as you train it right, you should be ok with whatever breed you choose!

Good luck to you!
AJ

Answer 5

its doesnt matter what breeds dogs you are planning to get for your family ? well you should go to the pet shelter place and ask them the dogs they have for sale or put on adopted first and i would also ask if any large / small / meduims dogs have ever had been with kids before , how they treated with another animals before you dedicate to get a dog ? cause many dogs can have some problems before they end up in the animals shelters long before . plus its risk if you have young children cause maybe small dogs can get hurt or become injury anyways . but you should pick out a dog whom is great with kids and already trainned , also good with cats . not many dogs willin like cats . because i have a small yorkshire mixs with british terrier and she hates little kids / cats . so she s get mean to people she doesnt like . also i have two mediums sizes rollweiriers mixs spanishlamb. small dogs are hard to take care of like me . you have do treat them like a child clean their poops and have chewing problems .

Answer 6

Before deciding on any breed of dog, you first have to answer this question: Are we ready as family to take on the responsiblites, not just for a dog, but for a new member of my family? If the answer is yes, then you are ready for a dog and I highly recomend taking a look at this website:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/searchcategories.htm
This is a highly informative site about all breeds, and it should help you make your decision, And remember your Local SPCA has many lovely dogs all waiting for good homes too!

Answer 7

Jack Russell Terrier

Answer 8

I would suggest golden retrievers because they are awesome with kids and love them. First off retrievers (get them at a young age so they get used to everyone) love everyone unconditionally and never show any aggression towards children , especially young children (yes i know, retrievers are kind of big). But they are the most reccomened dogs for families with children --> check this site out http://www.petfinder.com/

Answer 9

Get your little boy a STUFFED dog until HE is old enough to care for a real dog. You aren't teaching him anything when you take care of it. Wait a couple years or so to get a real animal.

Answer 10

I would suggest checking out the shelters & rescues.They have a lot of nice dogs to chose from and your son could find one that is his best friend.