Below is a list of the top 20 dog breeds for families, and begining pet ownners.
Golden retriever. The golden retreiver is an excellent choice for families that enjoy lots of outdoor activities. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the golden rapidly proved himself as a loyal and devoted family member.
Pembroke Welsh corgi. At about 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi is a popular pet. This stocky short tailed breed needs daily exercise and loves romping with the kids.
West Highland white terrier. This small white terrier is playful and loveable but does require some exercise to keep him happy. The Westie is a good watch dog and faithful friend that needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free. The Westie can be an excellent dog for older children. They tend not to be tolerant of children's accidental mistreatments. They are often not recommended for households with children under the age of ten.
Irish setter. This beautiful red dog was originally developed to help with hunting but early on, the breed showed his natural aptitude as a companion. Loved by many and always eager to please, the Irish setter is a part of many families.
Schnauzer. The schnauzer is a wonderful family pet. Eager to please and to keep the family safe, this breed usually requires regular grooming and daily exercise. This breed thrives on human companionship and is available in three different sizes.
Labrador retriever. The lab is a popular choice for active families, especially those that enjoy water sports. The labrador seems to have boundless energy to keep up with the kids as well as natural protective instincts. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the lab is also a loyal and devoted family member.
Poodle. The poodle is an intelligent and friendly dog that craves human companionship. Happiest when allowed to run and play, the poodle is well known for being low shed, and comes in three different sizes to suit any taste.
Bichon frise. This white fluff ball is a happy-go-lucky dog. Faithful and obedient, the bichon is a wonderful addition to any home. The bichon does require regular grooming to keep his coat looking great but loves to investigate and participate in anything.
Airedale. A sturdy dog, the airedale takes his job as a family friend and protector seriously. Willing to join in the fun anytime, the airedale always keeps a watchful eye out for any potential dangers.
Basset hound. With his sad droopy eyes, you may think the basset is a lazy hound. But, as soon as kids are around, this dog will jump right in and keep up with the best of them.
Beagle. The beagle may be an active breed but he fits in well with very active families. Needing a good place to sleep and plenty of games to play, this breed can easily join any family.
Shih tzu. Originally bred as a companion animal for royalty, the shih tzu still enjoys a life a luxury. Not too proud to get down and dirty with the kids, this dog loves nothing better than sharing time with people, even if that means getting dressed up for a tea party.
Boxer. The boxer may look a bit intimidating but he is actually a sweet and friendly dog. A natural guardian, the boxer prefers to spend his time with people than with other canines. Though this breed can do well in quiet homes, he can also thrive in busy active families.
Cairn terrier. Despite their small size, the cairn terrier is a tough little dog. This breed does well in any living environment as long as there are people around. As a terrier, this breed does need exercise and a romp in the park or running with the neighborhood kids suits him just fine.
Collie. Forever connected to "Lassie", the collie is considered by many to be one of the best family pets. Intelligent yet patient, the collie is loved by families all over the world.
Boston terrier. The Boston is a small black and white terrier that loves to make you laugh. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the sofa while you read a good book. Obedient and loyal, the Boston is a good watch dog and loyal family pet, especially for the not so active families.
Newfoundland. This gentle giant may drool a little too much for some people but has made a wonderful big protective teddy bear for many lucky children. Because of his size, families with very young children may want to wait a few years but those families who enjoy life near water can rest easy with this dog near by.
Pomeranian. This little fluffball looks just like a tiny fox. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Pom is an adorable breed that thrives on human companionship. Requiring little space, the Pom is great for a family with older children.
Pug. Not at all pugnacious, the pug is an affectionate, loveable, even-tempered breed with great charm and dignity. Pugs love being part of the family. They are playful companions for children and will happily curl up on your lap for a nap.
Whippet. Whippets are quiet, gentle and loyal. This dog tends to greet strangers with a kiss and loves children. The also love to chase things so should always be kept on a leash or in a secure yard when venturing outdoors.
2007-02-21 07:55:31
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answer #1
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answered by Meghan H 2
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It sounds like you've got a little bit of experience with taking care of a pet. Well, I'm here to tell you that taking care of a dog (especially a puppy) can be almost like having a kid. You seem to be younger, since you're trying to think of a pet you can make your parents get for you, so I'm thinking a dog may not be your cup of tea just yet. Cats, on the other hand, can be much more laid back and low maintenance. I'm not entirely sure how one would do with your parakeets and fish though, so you may want to keep the cat out of those rooms. But a cat would definitely be something to look into. They're easier to care for than dogs because you don't have to take them out to the bathroom or walk them. They like to be with people, but they can be left alone for days even as well, as long as they are given adequate food and water. If I were you I would try to get a cat (not a kitten) from a shelter where the workers will know if the cat has issues, fears, diseases, etc. Plus, an older cat will have be a bit more calmer, and won't annoy your parents too much. Also, I'd recommend one with short hair. The long haireds look pretty, but they also require a daily combing for their fur and vacuuming for your carpets.
If you know someone who has a cat, such as a relative or something, see if you can't take it for a weekend as a sort of trial run. See if it suits you. See if you can manage it.
If that's no good, try something like a rabbit or guinea pig.
Good luck
2007-02-21 08:06:28
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answer #2
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answered by hmx_mail 3
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hi hun , ive got a dog , & 3 chipmunks ,You dont really say much about your free time ? and if you live with your parents or not . Personally a dog is brilliant BUT it is a minimum 12 yr commitment & so many dogs are homeless that need loving homes instead of a puppy . If not i would suggest chipmunks !!! They are wicked animals not as small as hamsters or gerbils, they can be tamed quite easily if done correctly & will sit on your shoulder,do not bite(at least if handled correctly), they are very easy to care for , Can be expensive to start up but if you shop around & use your noggin you can do this much cheaper , they are extremely good to watch & you would need to do alittle read up on them or ask someone who has them to give you some info. I have 3 males & i love them to bits. Expect to pay £25+ for a chipmunk agouti coloured or dilute, minimum cage size must be 3ft this would suitably house 1 chipmunk , the taller the better. stick to the same sex unless u dont mind babies !!! ive got plenty of pictures if you would like to see my cages & chipmunks ! good luck hun xx
2007-02-21 09:11:12
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answer #3
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answered by Moo 3
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My favs are pug puppies, because they are adorable and playful and just precious. But, they are notorious for having respiratory and other problems so that wouldn't be a good choice. Labs are good dogs, but they are known to have hip problems so again, no good. German shepherds are fabulous, gorgeous, loyal, great family dogs, protective. But, they're huge. So many dogs to choose from. You should google dogs and find out all you can about the different species so that you're able to make an informed decision. Good luck with that.
2007-02-21 07:55:38
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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I would have suggested a cat but since you already have two parakeets, kitty cat might want them. So if you want something small & furry how about a teacup poodle. They are loyal and being that it is small very accomodating to take out anyplace. Just be careful she/he does not get loose.
2007-02-21 07:55:25
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answer #5
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answered by Feline05 5
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I love animals and they always give you a smile. My favorite pet probably is a ferret, yes people say they smell but only if you wash them too much. Mine loved to cuddle, play and even gave kisses. They need lots of attention but if you give them attention from the time you get them you will never regret it.
If you are looking for a more accepted parent pet I would suggest a young short hair kitten. You can cuddle with them, and play too. It depends on what you are looking for. Pets need a lot of love and attention so don't just forget about them!!!
Good luck with your new pet!
(keeping fingers crossed that you get the pet that u want)
2007-02-21 08:17:44
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answer #6
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answered by delphina_16 1
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I would get a boston terrier. they are very smart and loyal and are also good watch dogs. they are not very big, about 20 pounds. I have two and I love them so much. They can be a little hyper but if you train them like I do mine, they will calm down when you tell them too. Here is a picture:
2007-02-21 07:55:46
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answer #7
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answered by jkeys00 3
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Dogs! Collies are very loyal, and never show aggression.
2007-02-21 07:56:28
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answer #8
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answered by random10431325 1
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dogs- loyal, affectionate, i love them
cats- more independent, cleaner, i like them
ferrets- entertaining, cute, funny, loving, love to be held, and i love them :) i used to have 2 ferrets, and they were hilarious, plus they can be litterbox trained, so that makes clean-up a little easier, they are sooo fun to play with!!
my favorite is ferrets, they are great pets!!
2007-02-21 07:54:10
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answer #9
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answered by ferrets4ever 4
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dog a fox terrier because they are easy to train and they do not shed to much and also they do not make a lot of mess to clean up
2007-02-21 07:57:55
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answer #10
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answered by billc4u 7
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