dog that won't get too big?

Question

I want to get a puppy but since my place isn't too big I was wondering what dogs there are that don't get too big? And I don't like those little dogs like chihuahas, terriers, etc I guess not the 'prissy' type of dogs that are REALLY small but maybe full grown would be medium sized? Hard to explain but any names would be helpful, thanks

Answer 1

French Bulldogs are really nice dogs that aren't really "girly" and they do great in apartments. Frenchies do not need a lot of exercise, are fairly quiet, and are very sweet dogs. They are not supposed to get bigger than 28 lbs, but since they are a bully breed they do not look like they should weight that much. Also, they do not shed too bad, the do not get a doggie odor, and they do not drool.

Answer 2

Size isn't the only thing to consider here. What you really need is a dog that doesn't have a high activity level. Border collies, for instance, are typically a medium-sized dog, but they have a ton of energy that makes them very unsuitable for an apartment. Below I'll list some suggested breeds. Some of them are low energy, and others have a little higher energy, but all can be suited to an apartment as long as they fit your lifestyle.

Basset hounds come to mind because they are a medium-sized breed that has a very low energy level. But they tend to have health problems because of their long back and droopy ears, and they will run away at the first interesting scent they find, so they should never be let off-leash.

Cavalier King Charles spaniels are small dogs, but they're good for apartment living because of their calm demeanor and they don't need a lot of exercise. They need a lot of grooming, though.

American Eskimo dogs are small-to-medium sized dogs, depending on whether you get a toy, miniature, or standard. They might be a good breed to look in to, but they do need a fair bit of exercise.

Shetland sheepdogs are another suggestion. These are medium-small dogs with a trainable disposition and can be good for apartment living provided that they get lots of exercise.

You might also be interested in the Shiba Inu. These are small dogs, but not tiny, and they don't have the typical 'prissy' look to them. They are a spitz-type dog, but beware that they have a very independent attitude and need a lot of exercise.

Look into the Basenji as well. These are medium-sized dogs that don't bark, but they need a fair bit of exercise and can be quite difficult to train. Nonetheless, they are very unique.

Finally, I suggest looking into the Welsh corgi. These dogs are short and somewhat stout, but are intelligent and have a quite a bit of energy.

Answer 3

I have a Bichon Frise (cousin to the Maltese but a bit bigger than a Maltese). The Bichon Frise is bigger than the toy breeds. In this country the Bichon Frise is classified as non-sporting breed by the AKC. I have one. When my mom was trying to find a dog that was white and wasn't too big she was also looking for one that wouldn't be too hyper like some poodles, etc. We checked out Samoyed (sp?), Westhighland Terrier (and quickly ruled that one out b/c of the hyperactivity), American Eskimo (this one has a medium size grouping too I think).

Then my mom went to the pet store in the town we lived in at the time and talked to the lady who ordered a book about the Bichon Frise. After mom read it she knew that's what she wanted and it was confirmed after we went to visit a family in another town that had some Bichons.

Then we got our first Bichon puppy. Later on down the road we bred her. We have the son from her first litter. He's now 16 years old.

These dogs are good for those that have issues with allergy b/c their hair isn't like a lot of other dogs.

The build of the Bichon is very stocky too unlike some other breeds so if you ever have children come to visit they can handle being around a child.

You can check for more info about the Bichon Frise at: http://www.akc.org or http://www.bichonfrise.org (this one I refer out a lot when someone asks about the breed).

Bichons are good for apts and other small places but as others have suggested research a ton.

Answer 4

Boston Terriers (contrary to their name, they aren't actually terriers) are nice if you don't have a lot of space. In my experience they are pretty adaptable. My 4 y/o Boston can easily keep up on walks and playing with my Lab, but she is just as happy laying around sleeping all day. Bostons are sturdily built and agile, but their short noses can cause breathing problems. If you get one, I would look for one with a slightly longer nose. I know some people would disagree with me because it is not breed standard, but I think it is the healthier way to go, especially if you are getting one as a pet.

Shelties are also great dogs. I've never had one but I know a lot of obedience people who do because they are easy to train. They are small-medium sized and not at all fragile or prissy.

Answer 5

best to do research on the breeds of dogs. Most small breeds live longer but ALL breeds will have different health issues. It also depends on how "active" the breed and how much time you are able to spend with the dog. Puppies are cute but need almost constant attention and time. Perhaps you might think about going to your local shelter and saving a dog that you already know how big it will be and who will give you many hours of loving devotion (not to mention saving a life).

Answer 6

My fave is the Boston terrier, you ruled out the terriers, but check into them. Loving, smart, have never known a mean one, love to play, but love to cuddle as well. I have two now, have had 5 in the past. They are anything but prissy, I have one that thinks he is as big as the wolf down the street. I can go on and on, but check them out. They weigh about 20 to 30 lbs and fit on your lap very well.

Answer 7

If you live in the city, try to get a breed that doesn't require a lot of exercise. A few medium size breeds NOT to get: border collie, dalmation, australian cattle dog, labrador retriever...any of these would need a lot of space to run and play. You could probably do ok with a daschund, keeshond, shetland sheepdog, etc. Good luck.

Answer 8

A beagle is good. I have a male and female beagle and the female is a little smaller than the male, but it makes a big difference in the amount they pull. They are medium dogs at full grow size. But, a word to the wise, the male is harder to potty train. If you want a male, but not that much trouble potty training him, neuter him. They are easier to train that way.

Answer 9

French Bulldog or Boston Terrier

Answer 10

Look into basset hounds. I know they aren't tiny, but their laziness makes up for it. I have one, and he lays around so much he doesn't take up much space. Also they are very protective, great watch dogs, and awesome with kids. They are definately not prissy either.