What kind of dog should I get?

Question

I'm talking purebred - if I decide I want one from the Humane Society, I'm on my own, yeh?

I want a small dog (toy, below 15 lbs) that isn't too hyper or yappy. More of a curl-up-in-your-lap kind of dog, who'll go on a walk or play, but doesn't go nutso if it's not exercised every day, and can sit still. Preferably one that doesn't shed too too much, and requires grooming 3 times weekly or less.

I'll be living in an apartment, with a job at a restaurant or store, so I won't be around all the time, but I won't be away much other than that (if I do have to go somewhere, I'm planning on taking the dog!).

I've looked at the Papillon and Japanese Chin, but the different sites say different things about temperament. It sounds like the Pap might have too much energy for me (even though I prefer the way it looks to the way the Chin looks).

Anyone have any ideas or comments?

Absolutely no greyhounds. Had some rescue ones when I was a kid that were supposedly "pet-friendly." As soon as we got them they proceeded to pick off all the other pets. There went my bunny, my cat, and the neighbor's cat, not to mention a squirrel or two... Plus they were messy and disruptive. Small dogs, please! (Sorry, had to rant a little there...)

Answer 1

There are plenty of purebred dogs in shelters and rescues too.

Answer 2

Shelties are AMAZING pets. I'm always told my Sheltie Kimahri looks like a "Little Lassie". There are Blue Merle's, Tri-Color, and Sables. Their nickname is a "Miniature Collie". They only get to about 20-25 lbs at most and contrary to popular belief, they really don't shed that much. They're a herding dog so they need to be exercized frequently, but not everyday. They are very social and good with kids too. I believe their the sixth most intelligent dog and are a cinch to train, especially with common commands such as sit, stay, and housetraning as well. I do suggest you get a male if you decide to get a sheltie. The females are wonderful but can be a little nippy when they're in heat. All around a great dog.

Answer 3

Get a Shih Tzu or Maltese - both are small and have very loveable personalities (and don't shed). Both are very cuddly and playful but don't require much exercise. Get one from a good breeder and make sure they know what kind of temperment you want, they can match the proper pup from their litter to your lifestyle. Talk with breeders from any breed you're looking at and ask them questions about their dogs to see if this is really the breed for you.
If you keep the dog clipped you won't have to brush more than once a week (keep the hair around 2" long).

Answer 4

A pug would probably be ideal. I personally own a 4 lb. papillon and he likes to spend most of his time cuddled up but he does like to romp around a little every day. They are protective by nature and bark a bit at strange noises. A minpin is not what you need...incredibly hyper...friend of mine has one and its a ball of energy most of the time. Could also try a Brussels Griffon...pretty low key coat maintenance outside of the beard.

Answer 5

I didn't read your questions specifics but i would get a greyhound. I've heard they are apartment friendly and I know any dog that has been used for a human business like racing has got to be very mild. try to get one that has already been used in racing and is cast off by that business. We got a siberian husky. I would not get that for anything but a rough and ready family that loves the outdoors. Energy!

Answer 6

Do some more breed searches until you find what you want. There are many breeds that meet your requirements. Go talk to some breeders, check out some books, talk to your Vet, get ideas and opinions from your friends, they know you a lot better than we do.

Answer 7

King Charles Cavalier Spaniels

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/cavalierkingcharlesspaniel.htm

I really like them!

Answer 8

these dogs may help you maybe a bichon frise or cavalier king charles spaniel.but the dog i most want and that lives up to your needs is a cairn terrier. its cute cuddly i want one so much and im hopefully going to get one, if i persuade my mum enough ever one else in my family wants one.

Answer 9

you can buy aminpin pup. ideally suitable for your expectations.