Advice on getting a dog for first time dog owner!?

Question

I'm thinking about getting a dog. Something smallish and relatively easy to train with a good temprement. can anyone give me suggestions as to what breeds I should be looking at? Thanks

I should have mentioned I have a reasonably large house with a good sized enclosed garden. Not kids in house but I do have budgies and fish!

Answer 1

My dog is 3/4 Shih Tzu and 1/4 Yorkshire terrier.He has a personality like you wouldn't believe.He is wonderful with kids.I have treated him just like he was my child and he is very well behaved,he won't potty in the house.He doesn't chew things "of course that all took some time in training him what he can and cannot do.It doesn't matter how hungry he is,you can sit his food down for him and he will sit right beside it but won't eat till I get I sit down to eat my meal. he won't eat anything that isn't fresh and if his water dish has a little bug or something in it he'll bark until I give him clean water. The main thing is to love your dog and you'll have a faithful companion eager to learn

Answer 2

Different dogs are suitable for different people. I think your best bet, as you don't know which breed to go for would be to have a look around an all-breed rescue. Click on the link below to find rescues near you:

http://www.dogpages.org.uk

The dogs can be in there for all sorts of reasons, there's dogs of all ages, some pure-bred, some crossbreeds.

Some dogs will require more training than others, but a good rescue will have assessed each dog's temperament and its needs before re-homing.

As you are a first time owner, I'd definitely recommend Dogs Trust. As well as being very helpful to me when I got my dog from them, they'll give you a "pre-adoption talk" before allowing you to take the dog away, taking you through what to expect, giving advice etc. The dog will have been given a full veterinary check and be up-to-date with vaccinations etc. What's more, they offer a service where you can phone them up for advice about your dog. This advice is available FOR THE LIFETIME OF THE DOG!

Good luck!

Answer 3

It depends on your circumstances. Do you live in a flat, for example, and are you out at work all day long? If so, do not get a collie! They're working dogs and need an active life.
I think you should do a bit more research into the characteristics of the various breeds and what they were originally bred for. And then see if they fit into your lifestyle.
I've always wanted a blood hound, but their slobber can reach ceiling height, so it's not for me.
I've got a Yorkie instead. She's lovely, a good watch dog, very affectionate and sweet. But the person who said that small dogs often don't "potty train" well, is right.

Answer 4

I would look for a mixed breed, I find them the most loving, and need homes desperately. Often you can find one where the current guardian must give up, and describe behaviors. Rescue organizations usually help with behavioral reports as well.
Almost any dog can be trained, I might add.
Also, about mixed breeds, there is less chance of having a problem with health or other things due to over breeding.
Mine are:
Abbey, age 11
Angel, age 2
Both rescued, lab mixes. Fantastic people on four legs.
All the best to you and your new friend!

Answer 5

I would suggest a toy or mini poodle. They are both very well suited to life indoors and do not require a lot of exercise like most other breeds do. They do not shed and are oderless. They come in almost every color imaginable.They are also about the most intelligent dog breed you can get. They are extremely easy to train and are very affectionate. Fetching things come quite natural to them since this is what they were originally bred to do. Toys are great, but, personally, I prefer the mini poodles because they can navigate easier through a house. For example, they can jump onto tall beds with ease...if that is your choice. Also, if your new pet will be interacting with children, the mini is much better suited to a child's play than a toy. They are also easier to housebreak than practically all other small dogs. It all comes down to personal choice. Interact with whatever breed(s) you are considering and get a little hands-on experience before getting a puppy if at all possible.

Answer 6

king charles is a good dog for a first time dog owner- DO NOT get a westhighland. I used to groom dogs and they are very snappy and only the occasional nice one that hasn't been spoilt will get on with kids. Cocker spaniels can be a bit nervous and as a result a bit snappy. Puppies are cute but a lot of trouble, an adult dog from the pound could be a better bet. good luck

Answer 7

Go to your local shelter and look at the dogs there, most are housebroken
and come in a variety. Don't just settle for one breed a mixed breed has a
lot of good qualities and make sure the dog likes you too and they can sometimes give you the dog's history and you'd be doing a good deed by
giving a homeless dog a place to live. Be prepared to go out into all kinds
of weather for walkies whether or not you want to go.

Answer 8

A lot of small dogs are really hard to potty train.
You should check with your local shelter. You might be able to find an adult that already knows some basic commands. You would also be giving a needy dog a loving home.
Don't choose a dog before you thoroughly research the breed.

Answer 9

A labrador is a very mild tempered breed and respond quickly to training. I was brought up with one from a very young age and she was very loving, intelligent, a loyal companion! Even brilliant with other dogs AND cats!! (although i don't think you will have a problem with the fish!) If I was to get another dog I would definately get another one. I hope you find this useful!

Answer 10

A west highland terrier (westie) is a great dog but from day 1 it has to no that you are boss. I bought a westie a year ago and he is lovely the best dog i could have but he is a little dominate over me and he wont come back in the park, (so im have 1 to 1 training 2morr) maybe a cocker spaniel but make you get dominate over it whatever dog you get. hope this helps.