I need a small dog that gets along well with other animals (specifically cats and dogs). I was thinking about an Italian Greyhound since they aren't very big. Any suggestions?
2007-09-19 14:39:52 · 20 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
Italian Greyhounds are nice dogs but they are VERY fragile. They like to run and chase things. They can be shy and aloof towards people and other dogs. But they are very sweet dogs. If looking for a hardy dog that is highly intelligent, easy to train and gets along well with all people and all animals you should look into the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
2007-09-19 14:50:10 · answer #1 · answered by Cavalier KCS mom 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get a book on dog breeds and characteristics. Read up on the various groups. Working, sport, toy, etc these groupings will give you a general idea of the nature of the dog. Then as you check on the breed you can narrow down more specific characteristics. Each dog is different and most will not be a perfect match to the descriptions but is better than just finding a cute dog and finding out that that he digs holes everywhere (and you don't like holes in the yard) because he's a ratter and that's what he is suppose to do. Then go to your local SPCA with a general idea of what your looking for. It may take several visits but you will find what your looking for.
2007-09-19 21:56:12 · answer #2 · answered by Morgan S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Research, research, research. Look around the kennel club sites and check out the descriptions of the different breeds and find one that suits you. Do you want low energy or high energy? Long or short coat? Do you have allergies and need a dog that sheds less? Check for ease of training if you don't have alot of experience. Are you able to look after a very small fragile breed (chihuahua or yorkie), or do you want one that's a bit sturdier (pug or a frenchie)? Find out what you want out of a dog and then look for a breed that matches it.
Personally, my favourite of the small breeds is the Japanese Chin. They are the cleanest and quietest of the toys breeds. They are generally laid back, don't need copious amounts of exercise and are people pleasers. They do shed and require frequent brushing to keep their coat from matting. But, because they are so naturally clean you don't have to worry about bathing them all the time. And they generally get along well with other pets from what I've seen.
2007-09-19 21:59:18 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I personally love Bichons, we have a Bichon and a Shih Tzu. He is the most friendly dog in the world our Shih Tzu is very friendly too. neither shed but they are a lot of grooming. they are 14lbs and 9lbs so they a quite small as well yet a little more sturdy than a italian greyhound. but all dogs are great.
2007-09-20 00:01:02 · answer #4 · answered by ♥BichonFrise♥ 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's really for you to decide because everyone has their own opinions on which dogs would be good choices to get. Do some research on dogbreedinfo.com. They have a breed quiz that matches you with breeds that would be good for your lifestyle. I personally love Dachshunds as they are great little dogs that are loyal, get along well with most other animals, don't really shed that much, are friendly, very intelligent (but can be equally stubborn), and are very adorable and funny!
2007-09-19 21:56:25 · answer #5 · answered by Dachshund gal? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Labradors. I know they're not that small but I have one - he's the most friendliest and faithful dog I've ever owned. At 12 weeks old he walks by us without his lead on, is practically house trained and can do 'sit' and 'paw'. Labradors are also brilliant in cars, really intelligent and love the water. Oh and they're absolutley beautiful. Buy a lab and you'll have a friend for life.
My dog:
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a273/R0ckyrules/Floyd.jpg
He's called Floyd.Good luck in choosing your new friend :D
Good Luck!
2007-09-20 11:36:03 · answer #6 · answered by xsammielou 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It all depends on you. If you are not sure about what the best breed to get, then I would suggest going to a local rescue shelter and foster a puppy. This will give you a chance to try out different breeds while providing a warm and loving home for a puppy until he can find himself a permanent one. If you fall in love with your foster puppy, you can always opt to adopt the puppy yourself.
2007-09-19 22:47:20 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
you just need to research small dog breeds, maybe go around to some shelters and look at dogs, and just see what works best for you..cuz everyone has different taste..but i have to agree with the first person who answered, schnauzers are awesome, but so are mutts..i have a mutt right now but grew up with a schnauzer..
2007-09-19 21:51:00 · answer #8 · answered by *<3_Gizmo* 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
MUTT, a mix dog. I have an UGLY MUTT that is the BEST dog ever. He's just a STUPID looking dog, some of his fur is long, some short, can't tell exactly what all he is, but he's sure ugly. NO KIDDING mutt.
2007-09-19 21:53:59 · answer #9 · answered by Gardner? 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you should visit your local animal shelter and get a dog whos life needs saving! there are plenty of small dogs, pure and mixed who needs homes. try www.petfinder.com
2007-09-19 21:57:35 · answer #10 · answered by animluv 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋