Small dog needed for lady living on her own?

Question

A friend has asked my to keep an ear out for a small dog that she can look after and to give her company. she has a few mental problems because of the way that her ex-husband treated her but she has come through the worst of it. she is now living on her own and gets worried at night because she doesnt like being on her own. i think that a small dog would be better for her that a big dog as she is only a tiny lady. if anybody could help my friend it would be most appreciated. i am looking for a dog in the Plymouth area.

Answer 1

Go to www.petfinder.com

put in the zip code, type of dog, and you will be able to find a lot of dogs in her area that need homes. Small or large - there are many dogs that need owners that are home most of the time, since many suffer from separation anxiety. Many people have to get rid of their dogs because they work.

She can also take the dog to obedience school. Many have elderly people in them, and it is a place for people and dogs to socialize.

Answer 2

Yes, all dogs shed, anyone who says otherwise is full of it. (I worked at a groomers for a year)

If she has some mental problems then a TINY dog would not be a good idea. I'd go for a sturdier small-medium dog, like a corgi. A dog that size would also be a little better for "watchdog"-ing and she would probably feel more protected by a corgi than a chihuahua.

Try your local shelter first. They probably have some great small mutts. All of my dogs were either shelter dogs or throwaway dogs (including a 3 day old puppy found in a box outside the veterinary hospital I worked at in high school) and they all are great dogs.

Answer 3

Since your friend has health problems, the first criteria is to choose a breed that is emotionally stable. A corgi or border collie wouldn't be the best bet for your friend. Corgi's can be bossy.
A spaniel type might suit her, they're very affectionate. It really depends what she wants, a jolly dog to cheer her up or a soothing personality.
Taking it to puppy classes is a great idea if she gets a pup, she'll learn loads and its a good way to get out and meet people. (Because its a structured environment its not the same as going to the pub so for people that have social anxiety its a good step to take.)
Do some research into the different breed characteristics before you help her choose a pet, and you can also get any potential pet temperament tested by a behavioural trainer.

Answer 4

A good small breed of dog is a Boston terrier. I own one and he is very affectionate and loyal. They shed very little and are very content just to curl up beside you. Another great dog is a Yorkshire terrier, however they have a tendency to bark and need to be sent to a groomers every now and then. I would suggest doing a search for breeders, this way you can raise the puppy and train it. Being that she is a small lady, getting a dog from a shelter may not be the best as you do not know their past or their tendencies.

I hope this helps!

Answer 5

Visit an animal rescue shelter with your friend. The people there can help your friend decide what type of dog she can help and that would fit in well with her life. They want to make sure that there's a good match for both dog and person.

I wouldn't necessarily consider just pure breds, my Heinz 57 was a wonderful dog, and sometimes mongrel dogs can be more robust and healthy.

Does your friends mental problems mean that she will or won't be able to look after an animal? e.g. feed it, groom it, walk it, pay for it's vet bills?

Answer 6

Try the site listed below go down to the dog breeders section and click on the blue lettering in the section and you can pick any kind of dog you want and it gives a list of breeders all over the country.

I recommend a Shih Tzu they are small and quite but vary protective i own two my self.

Answer 7

King Charles Cavalier spaniel! They are sensitive, kind gentle little dogs - you do not specify what kind of mental problems the lady suffers from, but any loud shouting or sudden movements or violence - do not get a a dog at all, especially a small one.

Answer 8

Good watchdog and great companion would be a basenji. They are a little hard to find but a great breed. There are many out there but the basenji is a non-barking breed that has a pretty even temperment.
Also there are Yorkies, chihuahua, pug, brussells griffon the list is endless. check out American Kennel Club website. There is a questionaire there that will help your friend decide.
Good luck

Answer 9

Have you ask her does she likes dog? Does she have times for dog? If for a beginner I won't suggest small dog. Cuz small dog need more times to take care. I would suggest Labrador retriever.

Answer 10

My Mum has a Bichon Frise.

http://www.gotpetsonline.com/pictures-gallery/dog-pictures-breeders-puppies-rescue/bichon-frise-pictures-breeders-puppies-rescue/pictures/hi-res-bichon-frise-0132.jpg

Imo girl dogs are much more careful to stay around their owners (mum's dog follows her everywhere and looks around every few moments when they are out for a walk) whereas male dogs go off and wander. However Bichon Frise's are right yappers. (loud and high pitched and constant whenever anyone come to door or passes window). Their sudden loud yapping might easily fray anyone's nerves. Good luck with the search though.