Why don't you visit your local animal shelters. They have tons of mixed breed dogs that look very unique and beautiful. And the shelter volunteers work closely with the animals, so they can help you find a dog with a personality that will fit your lifestyle. Try going to http://www.petfinder.com/ to search for dogs who are in shelters in your area. And you can also take the breed selector quiz on dogbreedinfo.com. Dogbreedinfo.com also has a lot of information about other dog breeds that you can look into.
http://dogbreedinfo.com/search.htm
Good Luck in finding your dog! I'm glad your parents are allowing you to get one...mine never let me get a dog.
2007-02-10 07:47:02
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answer #1
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answered by Stark 6
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There are lots of cocker spaniels that are not used for hunting, and they are very happy. In fact the cocker spaniel is a hunting dog in that it will retrieve a wood cock, which is a very small bird, after it has been shot buy the hunter. The dog is bred to bring it back unharmed. I can't tell you how many cocker spaniels I have watched carry stuffed animals around without ever chewing them up. Often they like to fetch balls back too, and basically that is what they were bred for in fetching those little birds. It's an adorable trait in a well bred cocker. Cockers are not all the same, there are not only 3 varieties separating coat color, but also different breed types. The cocker has undergone some recent changes to body type making both the older type from the 1950s and before, and the more modern look that is bred now quite different in appearance. Temperament also varies on the breed so I really suggest that you find a show breeder and play with some of the ancestors of what ever your considering before you get a dog (any dog really). The other thing I should warn you on with the cocker is that they are a high maintenance breed that requires a lot of grooming. The face is shaved; the show dogs are washed and brushed out under huge blow driers weekly. They can also be kept in puppy length coats which is very cute and does not require as much work, but with a cocker or any long haired dog, be prepared for the grooming, either done by yourself or a groomed. Also remember, if you thinking of a long haired dog but your thinking that you might shave the dog down on occasion for convenience, it is not going to have the same look without it's coat.
Take a look at all of the breeds and find the one that appeals to YOU most:
2007-02-10 07:56:40
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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There is no one dog that is right for everyone. If you would like an energetic dog that is small look in the terrier group. Terriers are hardy and most of them are great around children. Greyhounds are larger dogs, beautiful, and love kids. They are also pretty mellow. Dogs from the herding group require plenty of exercise and are also usually fine around children- altho they may try to 'herd' a group of kids. Just remember that ANY dog can be aggressive. Training and good breeding are very important. Research any breed you are considering to find out the pros and cons of the breed. Once you decide on a breed find a reputable breeder. The breeder will help you pick a pup that is right for you (ie if you are new to training you won't want a pup that is dominant). Good luck!
2007-02-10 07:48:21
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answer #3
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answered by J D 4
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Sweetie, you need to figure out why you want a dog, by that I mean, what do you want him for? If it's just to be beautiful then I suggest you get yourself a statue of a dog.
Dogs are a very big responsibility and there is more to them than just looks. Ask yourself how much time you have to spend with the dog on a daily bases, certain breeds require a lot more attention and exercise than other breeds - such as sporting breeds over say toy breeds. As for the amazing part that will come down to one thing, you and you alone.
It is not easy to figure out what you want but you have started on the right path by researching them. I would also suggest you contact a vet office a see if a veterinarian is willing to talk to you about common health problems of the breeds you are interested in.
2007-02-10 08:52:59
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answer #4
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answered by Donnertagskind 2
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When choosing a dog, two good resources are the internet and your local Humaine Society.
If you are to go on a dog rescue web-site, you are able to see wheather or not the dog is house trained,had its shots,and matters such as spaying and nuetering. These sites also tell you about the dog's personality and if he/she can tolerate small children. A disadvantage of this is, you don't see the dog in person until you actually buy it.
If you go to the humaine society you must analyze the dogs' actions. If the dog acts hostile,used to be abused,or anything like that, it's probably not a good idea to let it near your kids. Disadvantages of the Humaine society are that the dog could be a cute little, decieptive ,vagabond that pulls Houdinis and runs away alot,another is that the dog may have gotten sick by another dog (Which is why you should not pet the cats right after petting the dogs and wash your hands as often as possible).
As for good dogs to get, You do not get: pitbulls,dobermans,rautwilers (I don't think that's how it's spelled) or any other dogs that have brutal strength. There have been a few law suits and disappearances of the beloved family pet involving these dogs.
You can get: Small dogs, like pugs or Welsh corgies. For the neighbors sake, do NOT get a small yappy dog, especially if you have a large family member.
I suggest that you get a hound of some sort, they may not be the prettiest dog, but that was one of the best breeds I've had. Somethimes you feel like this week was terrible, but when you come home, pet that big ball of wrinkles, and hug his warm body you feel a wonderful sense of happiness. Not only that,but you don't have to worry about foxtails and burs in its fur. You only have to worry about other areas of grooming.
You don't absolutely have to buy a hound, there are many other breed I have not mentioned, such as Saint Bernards.
As a child, it made me feel safe to have a large gentle giant to accompany me and make me feel safe, although my dog was a scoundrel and a delinquint, we loved him dearly.
If you fail in finding a BEAUTIFUL, smart,amazing dog, go for a sweet,loyal one. He may be homely and weird or something, but he will always love you.
2007-02-10 08:50:43
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answer #5
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answered by cara 1
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I would go with the cocker spaniel. I have one, and he's an indoor dog, and he is the most snuggly dog I have ever met! He will cuddle up with me on the couch, and sleep with me, and just hop up in my lap! They're easily trained, but do require clipping every four weeks(approximately). I also brush him out daily. But this isn't a problem if you plan to keep your dog clipped short. They're great family dogs, and get along well with other animals. I find them to be my favorite breed of dog. And despite they are hunting dogs, I've never used mine to hunt.
2007-02-10 08:56:56
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answer #6
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answered by Anonymous
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A chihuahua can be a great pet,loyal,and a great watchdog,but they aren't biters.They are playful and cute,and everyone of them is unique.As well a poodle can be a good breed,but they are more to hard to take care of,with brushing,and keeping their fur cleaned and cut to fit the weather.I also recommend doing online research to find more breeds,and be careful where you buy you puppy,make sure when you buy the puppy you go and look at the living conditions of the dogs,and make sure the parents in good condition.Hope I helped out bunches!Good luck.
2007-02-10 07:49:27
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answer #7
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answered by Brittany F D 2
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Minature Poodle, or Shiba Inu. Labs are pretty unpredictable. My friend has a yellow lab that jumps up on you, tears you shirt, and takles and scratches you. I have a black lab who is more like a couch potato than a dog. She spends 60% of the day laying in my brothers bed, 20% sleeping outside in the sun, 4% walking around the backyard 10% eating wait control purina one, 6% running around, playing with other dogs, once a week on a walk.
Bassets are great dogs! They are mellow, layed back, and great family pets. I used to have one.
2007-02-10 08:09:55
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answer #8
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answered by Me!!! 2
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Um german shepards are good and gentle if raised right. Cocker spaniels aren't really used for hunting anymore so if you wanted one, i'd get one.They are more just compainion dogs nowadays. they are full of energy so they could keep up with the kids. I'd also just look in the free ads in your local paper or go to the Humane Society and save a life.
2007-02-10 07:46:32
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answer #9
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answered by volleyball_lover_nmbr31 1
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I agree with Jeanne Bean. Show responsibility and compassion to your parents by rescuing a dog that needs a home. Visit a shelter and let the dog pick you. Once this happens all thoughts about what dog is right for you go out the window, because you know you are right for the dog.
It has happened to me twice. I have two wonderful rescued dogs who chose me, they may be ugly mutts to you, but to me they are my life, and boy are they intelligent because they saw something worthy in me.
2007-02-10 07:52:00
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answer #10
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answered by Toph 4
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