What kind of dog would u recommend?

Question

I'm looking for a family dog (i have a wife and two kids) and we're looking for a dog that's small and will stay small. One that is fun and somewhat cuddle for the kids and also doesnt bark much. Any recommendations?

Answer 1

You would do well to check with your local Humane Society about what kind of dog to get. Many shelters now have someone who tests the dogs to see what their temperment is and if they are safe to be around children. Each kind has its own temperment and not every dog in that breed will be kid-friendly. Just because a dog is small doesn't mean it's safe to be around little ones. Not to give you nightmares, but last year I read of a woman in Denver who put her infant in the playpen on a deck to get some fresh air while she did something in the house. She heard screams and barking and found the family dauchsand had eaten through the playpen netting and was chewing on the baby. The baby later died at the hospital. No one could believe such a small dog could drag the child out through the hole.

Greyhounds are larger dogs, but can be very child friendly. Since they are rescue dogs they are tested to see if they are child friendly, cat friendly, etc. They rarely bark.

Beware of the "popular" breeds. Some of them have been so inbred you have no idea what they'll do from minute to minute.

I think the best advice is to go the animal shelter and let them help you. They can see how the dogs match up with your kids (you don't give ages so it makes it a little harder to be more definitive on what breed is good).

Remember too, just as you train the dog you have to train your children not to pull tails, ears, whatever. Not to cling to the dog or interrupt it while it's trying to eat, etc. Any dog will react negatively in those circumstances.

Little dogs like terriers might not be a good choice because they are so hyper and they yap so much.

Answer 2

I totally dissagree with the person who said that terriers bark alot!!!! I had a West Highland terrier and i have right now a Cairn Terrier and they bolth never barked. They are both WONDERFUl with children and they will let kids do anything to them. And they are great family dogs. They do like to play about for 30 a night when the family gets home but if you cant do that everynight that is finr with them two. And once they meet your kids they will follow them everywhere and they love the attention the kids will give them. And the best part is neather of the 2 breeds shed at all so that is nice. But I would get one of those 2 but I would not get a shitzu as much as i also love that breed also they shed and they are yappy some goes with the begel. And I also love love german shepards and labs and golden retrevers but they both are very time consuming and they are really really hyper when they are young up intill they are about 2 or 3 so you might want to take that into consideration. And they are like you said bigger dogs.

Answer 3

There are several that come to mind. I've known chihuahuas that have been good and shih tzus that were also good. My brother had a papillon that was nice but that particular one did bark. I suggest that you go to a site such as www.dog-breeds-online.com and take a little time to go through knowing your needs. If I were able to have a dog I would definitely get a Newfoundland dog. (I am unable to walk one.) Although large they are so wonderful with people and will always rescue people in the water. Many times you can decide what breeds you would be happy with and find a cross breed at the humane society. Enjoy your dog whichever type you get.

Answer 4

Beagles and Labs are absolutely the best family dogs.
Beagles are somewhat smaller than Labs.
Shelter &/or Rescue dogs are the way to go!
Go to www.petfinder.com to look at the dogs housed at your local shelters and rescues.
That's how we found both of our "boys". (Hint: Dogs that are 3-4 years old are actually calmer than puppies and don't have to learn housebreaking. ) Our Lab only barks when there's someone around our yard that doesn't belong. We appreciate this and always thank him. He's sweet, smart, affectionate, and the perfect genlteman. His favorite spot is sleeping on the end of my 11 yr-old son's bed while my son reads.

When our son was a baby, he used to crawl into the chair with our beagle and lay his head on her & conk off to sleep. Our beagle never moved a muscle while he slept. She's our sweetie!

Answer 5

I've owned more mix-breed dogs than purebreds and I've found that they really make better pets. Try your local shelter and see if you can find one that sorta "connects" with you and your family. Remember, you will be bringing home what could be your best friend. It's kind of like meeting someone for the first time and you really hit it off and develop a great friendship. You might not want to choose on the first trip. Make a few trips to the shelter and visit with the ones you like more than once. Sometimes, it the dog that chooses you. Good luck!

Answer 6

Take the family to your local animal shelter. There are so many wonderful dogs there just waiting for a good home. Keep in mind, many small dogs are not good with kids, especially very young ones. Also, you are looking at about a 15 year commitment, don't take it lightly. Dogs are not disposable.

Good luck to you!

Answer 7

If you are looking for a dog that doesn't slobber and drool all over, I would suggest a papillon. They are so soft, friendly, and cuddle up next to you when you lie down. They are not big dogs, so they are good for small children. If you are looking for a bigger dog that will play fetch (and other games) with your family, a golden retriever would suit you well.

Answer 8

Basset hounds are generally very sweet dogs and are very good with small children. They don't tend to bark, but may howl. My neighbors have one with two very young children. The dog gets along with all of the neighborhood children and even my dog (who doesn't get along with any other dogs.)

Answer 9

All i can say is good luck on that one. The best family dog I can recommend is a golden retriever. easy to train, easy to take car of, love to cuddle, very sweet, very gentle, and great with children.

Answer 10

Norwegian Elk hounds are exciting. they're a medium sized canine with a impressive style of hair, gray and black and white, with pointy ears, (very fuzzy) and are a family individuals canine. in addition they are rather stunning. The cutest doggies ever for my area! basically subject is they shed somewhat lots and are extra solid to discover. yet another solid breed is the duck hound. they are additionally lovable and characteristic golden longish fur and stunning snouts. they're a splash shorter than the elk hound. they are slightly extra calm that some canines. the two breeds are open to walking and runs. (additionally, in case you get a gold retriever, be certain you prepare them early, yet i assume that is going with all canines rather. Retrievers can get jumpy and hyperactive if no longer experienced early adequate. ) or you should purchase a canine e book with rather solid descriptions of the canines and discover the canine that suits you and your character. solid luck with the canine looking and that i desire this enables!