small dog question?

Question

I need help finding a breed of dog that would be good with 2 small children (under 5), and great in a smaller home. WE just lost our little jack russell and well Its going to be hard to find another dog as easily to train. We also have a cat that the dog would have to make friends with.

We don't want anything that resembles a poodle, or anything else paris hilton would pack around.

Answer 1

why don't you go to your local SPCA or dog rescue.
save a life that way?
there are plenty of purebred dogs in shelters everyday!

did you know?
Number of cats and dogs entering shelters each year:
6-8 million
Number of cats and dogs euthanized by shelters each year:
3-4 million

good luck.
or you can try www.petfinder.com

Answer 2

I am sorry about the loss of your Jack Russel.

I tried looking up a few dogs for you which would fit your description but may not be perfect as you didn't give too much info.

American Eskimo Dog - quiet a bit of fur, would have to groom often.
English Toy Spaniel - does not need much exercise, nor does it shed a lot.
Havanese - needs lots of grooming, nearly no exercise.
Miniature Littlefield Sheepdog
Miniature Schnauzer - daily walks are needed, easy grooming.
Pug - regular exercise needed, grooming is easy, you do need to clean the creases on the face regularly.
Xoloitzcuintle (Mexican Hairless) - does not need much exercise, enjoy playing around and enjoy short walks, as there is no fur, no care is needed, however they do need to wear sunscreen if they are out in the sun to prevent sun burns.

I hope this short list of dogs help with your selection :)

Answer 3

Almost all dogs are good with children and cats, especially when they are socialized (raised) with them from a puppy. There are also other questions that you may want to address, such as energy and grooming requirements. You were used to having a Jack Russell around, and they tend to be higher energy. But they don't require as much grooming as say a Sheltie. I recommend going to the AKC website (www.akc.org) and looking at the different breeds. That would give you a good start. Good luck with your searching!!

Answer 4

Hi I have a Tipperari Jack Russell dog. He is 15 months old and plays with my grandchildren one of whom is under 5 and the other is 7. He is so tolerant of them, he is unbelievable. He will not bite or even nip. just play and then curl up and sleep with them. He has been brought up with a cat and we have no prblems there at all. That is my recommendation but what ever breed you get, they all can be trained provided you are patient. Good luck.

Answer 5

Check out border collies. They are the smartest dogs in the world with at least as much personality as a jack russell. They're about the size of a jack russell. Very friendly and sweet.

Answer 6

I know you said you didn't want anything poodle-like, but please continue reading first. In February I bought an 8-week old Eskipoo puppy (part toy poodle, part American Eskimo). She's absolutely delightful -- extremely friendly with adults and small children (she loves toddlers), and great with my cats (I have 5). I think the most important thing I did with her was make sure she was extensively socialized (took her to as many places as I could), and when she showed any fearfulness over noises I just made her put up with it until she stopped being frightened.

Answer 7

With small children it's best to get something sturdy. I'd stay away from things like Chihuahuas or Miniature Pinschers. ShiTzus are great with children and very affectionate but require grooming. Pugs are a hoot and a lot of fun, but a few potential health problems. It also depends on your idea of small. One dog I always think of that are about perfect for any situation are Minature Schnauzers. They can be about 10-20 lbs. Extremely smart and trainable, affectionate, strong and sturdy (for the little ones) and are very in tune to the family's mood. They do require a clipping but it's very easy to take care of. They also shed at the most minimum level.

Answer 8

Try a Dachshund. The standard size is still small but can still be handled by child. They are good watch dogs, are protective of children and get along well with other animals . Training can be easy or hard, you must set the limits, but they learn quickly.

Answer 9

Greyhounds may not be little but are ideal house companions and are wonderful with children. They do not require much exercise as is believed. Just lots of love.. Adopt a retired greyhound. You will not be sorry. They are easily trained and they will place a dog that will get along with cats. I have a small LLsa Apso and 2 kittens and an american bulldog. My Grey gets along super with all. Look into it.

Answer 10

If I were you, I would pack up the kids and go to your local animal shelter. There are many dogs there of all sizes that would appreciate being placed in a home with children to love and protect. Don't be fooled by size unless you are restricted by rules, larger dogs are terrific companions to children. We rescued a beautiful rottie/aussie mix who loves our 4 children, has the size needed to handle the play of children, and the energy to keep up.

Answer 11

Does it have to be a purebred dog? Animal shelters are full of lovely pets desperately looking for a family!
One of the nicest dogs I ever had was a collie/husky cross with probably a few other things mixed in (possibly a bit of beagle). (She was about knee-high.) Miss Beau was the sweetest, most loving and devoted pet, absolutely crazy about kids and thought she was one of the cats to boot!
Don't dismiss the shelters. Animals there have been checked by a vet, are usually neutered and up to date on innoculations.
If you're willing to put in the time and energy it takes to train a puppy, that would probably work better with cats already in the house. But the shelter staff should be able to advise you.
Good luck!