Are small breeds 'proper' dogs?

Question

I might get a dog, and have been researching breeds. I like quite a few small dogs, but I didn't choose them for their size intentionally. I just want a good all-rounder that's fun, healthy, friendly, doesn't need excessive amounts of exercise - and lots of small dogs happen to fit that category! For example, the Bichon Frise.
But I've had quite a few comments from friends that because they're small and fluffy, they aren't 'proper', or they're 'dolly' dogs. I personally don't have a problem with their size, and I wonder why some people do. I think it's the dog inside that counts! But I'd really like to hear your opinions, whatever they are, so please post :)

From Beccy xx

Answer 1

You are right to choose a breed or dog that appeals to you AND your lifestyle. Too many get large or high energy dogs that turn out to be more than they bargained for. Too many end up rehomed or ignored in a yard.

All dogs should learn obedience but it is especially important for large dogs. YOU are liable if they injure someone, another pet or property. Insurance wont cover all breeds, apartments and houses often have size and breed restrictions. If you move will you turn down that really cool cheap apartment because it doesn't allow pets or rehome fido? Dogs are a 10 yr + commitment. Choose wisely whom you want to spend this long with. Some people are NOT firm consistant or alpha peronalities and dogs (small or large) will boss them around. This is very common with small dogs and people call it spoiled and think its cute, with large dogs they call it unstable and consider them dangerous. If you can not be firm and consistant you should at least choose a dog that won't some day pen you in your bathroom and not let you out! Do you want a lap dog, one to go hiking with, one to go swimming or camping, one to easily tote around? Small dogs make good lap dogs because they are lap sized, larger dogs make lap dogs too but can be heavy!

In the long run the dog will be here for the next 10 yrs in your life every day, will your friends?? Choose what is best FOR YOU. That is YOUR proper dog :)

All dogs have care requirements such as grooming, consider this when you choose a breed. Consider exercise and yard size needs. Consider costs both of the dog, routine health care, common problems with the breed and cost of upkeep. Big dogs need more food and flea/heartworm meds/ vet care/ anestesia/ wormers all things that are used based on weight cost more for a large dog.

Your friends sound like the type who get the following speach from me
Dogs are not a defense nor are they an image builder. Many who want a large dog do so for the wrong reasons. Get an alarm system if you need a home alarm, dogs should bark to notify you to strangers, not be expected to protect your property. In most cases even if the dog was in the right, once it has bitten he becomes high risk for being banned or put down. Its YOUR job to protect the dog.
If you want to look macho go to a gym, don't expect your dog to do it for you.

Answer 2

Lady M - FANTASTIC answer.

Can't fault it.

A Bichon is no less deserving of a suitable home than a rottweiler, staffordshire bull terrier or any other breed. It's also of the same species, so yes, it is a "proper" dog.

If you've done your research and found that a bichon best meets your needs then good for you!

I'm not sure what peoples' problems are with certain breeds. I don't know whether its insecurity or some strange form of snobbery, but either way - it's THEIR problem. Not yours.

Good Luck.

P.S. I wish more people would do what you are doing - ie research and choose a breed suited to their needs rather than getting something unsuitable to please other people's bizarre prejudices.

Good for you!

Answer 3

That is an opinion issue really. No a bichon isnt a rough and tumble, hunt a bear type of dog, but they are loving companions nonetheless. Unless you plan to go hunting, hiking, or some other very tiring activity with your dog, you don't need a huge breed. Many smaller dogs just fit your lifestyle better. Think about your hobbies, and where you like to go with your dog. If you are not an intensely active outdoors person, I would not be swayed by anyones opinion. You did your research, get the dog that fits your profile.

Answer 4

any dog can be a 'proper' dog if you find one that fits your lifestyle.

My Teddy bear (Bichon/Shih mix) fits my lifestyle. He's beyond a proper dog. He's the most wonderful dog I've ever met.

You have to ask yourself....

1. do you have kids
2. are you highly active, somewhat active, enjoy strolls in the park, or are a couch potato
3. Do you plan on life changes soon? Getting married... Moving... having kids...
4. What living situation do you have right now? Apartment or House?

If you think a small dog fits your lifestyle... there are so many breeds... what you need to do is research each individual breed to find each personality.

Some are very intellegent and ready to please
Some are extremely smart, but stubborn
Some love to go on long walks
Some prefer to be house dogs.
Some are high maintanence grooming wise
Some are non-shedders
Some are shedders.

Just find a dog that interests you and research.

Bichons are great dogs. They're friendly, they're smart, they're active... but they don't need excessive amounts of exercise.

Shih Tzus are great dogs, they're very smart but can be stubborn, they're easy to train if you're willing to take the time, and they are very loving.

Chihuahuas can be nippy with people who get in their face, they can be loving to their owners to the point of jealousy... may not be good with young kids. Needs to be trained, but can be very head strong. They're great dogs if you train them right and have enough patience.

So as you can see... Not all small dogs are alike so you need to find ones that seems good for you and research.

If you get into mix breeds like Shihchons

be sure to not only research the mix, but the pure bred parents that go into making the mix for various health problems.

research any breed for the good as well as health issues.

(Eye issues, inward sneezing, allergies)

if you have your heart set on Bichons (which is one of my favorite breeds by the way) here are some information pages on them.

read up and see if they really do fit your lifestyle.

They are great, they make great therapy dogs, they can be good at agilities, they are smart and loyal, and so friendly. They're generally social with other people and pets and are easy to train. (There are always acceptions to the rule of course. lol)

http://www.bichon.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bichon_Fris%C3%A9
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/bichonfrise.htm
http://www.bichon.us/
http://www.bichonfrise.org/faq.html

Be sure to read up on the health issues too, pay close attention to the eyes. They can have issues with tearing and reddening eyes and allergies.

Answer 5

If you treat it and train it like a dog, it will be a good dog. A lot of the problems arise because the people inclined to get small dogs are the kind of people who will coddle them, be unable to discipline them, and end up with a dissocialized tiny ball of fur. I wanted to get a dog even though I was living in a small apartment complex and got a chihuahua. He's great, we go camping, hiking, play tug of war. There are some size considerations, like not stepping on him, and that during winter I put him in a wool sock (try finding a FUNCTIONAL jacket for a chihuahua--all dog apparel is made for the type of owners I describe above) with holes cut out for his legs and head.

Answer 6

I have two large dogs and also a small one that my husband has had since before we were married. She is a Schipperke and she is the ultimate little dog! http://www.akc.org/breeds/schipperke/

She is active without being "hyper" and for a little dog she is a very hardy little thing... she LOVES being outside in the snow and even in the rain! (They have thick and very soft coats and you have to be careful about leaving them outside too long in the summertime.) And she's not afraid to wrestle with our big dogs, either, and she's great with my little nephews and niece.

They are little watchdogs, so they do have a tendency to bark if they see or hear something. For that reason, they might not make the best dog for an apartment, where there are always people coming and going.

They're not a really common breed, so if you were interested in getting one you'd have to do a bit of searching.

Here's a picture of our "little peanut"
http://picasaweb.google.com/sysxperts/OurPets/photo#5110178183118617298
(they usually dock the tails but as you an see she still has hers!)
http://picasaweb.google.com/sysxperts/OurPets/photo#5110178423636785938

Answer 7

I have wanted a dachshund since I was little. My husband wnated a Mastiff,or a Great Dane. He is into big dogs. We bought a dachshund 4 months ago. He told me to buy it since I had wanted one forever. He informed me he wouldn't like the dog because it was small. "He hated small dogs". Let me tell you ...this dog is his pride and joy now. I don't think we'd been home two hours and they were in love with each other. The dog actually prefers him over me. It's so cute. Now he wants to get another one next summer.
It's not the size of the dog its the dogs personality. Our Sweet Pea does not know she is a small dog. She plays with his mother's big boxers. She thinks she is big stuff.
My sister told us flat out the first time she saw her ...that she hated her. Simply because she thinks "weiner dogs are ugly". I replied well that is why she is our dog not yours. People really don't know when to keep quiet about things that aren't their business.

Answer 8

Gosh what is a "Proper Dog"?If you are looking for a true companion and new family member, you will know when you meet this baby.It will depend on if you want a lap pup or an outside pup.There is a big difference.All Dogs are great and have their own individual Personalities.Go to the book store and get some information on puppies and be informed about your new puppy,before you decide.A pup is a lifetime commitment,they have hearts too!!!Good luck

Answer 9

There's no such things as a "proper" dog. The "proper" dog is the dog that's right for you - the one you can give the best home to.

If the bichon lines up with this, then get it!

There are lots of good online tests you can take to see which breed of dog aligns best with your lifestyle. Try one of these out if you haven't already.
It sounds like you are doing the right thing by researching, though. Keep it up.

Answer 10

There is no such thing as a proper dog. If it is the dog you want and you love it, then it is the dog for you.

Among others I have a Chihuahua and a Great Dane. They are both "dogs". The Chihuahua is a brave as the Great Dane. She doesn't know she is 2 1/2 lbs. compared to 145 lbs.

Go with your heart.