I have to buy a dog for my 2 girls, they are 4 and 9 years of age and really want a puppy. I cannot handle dog fur smell so I really want to find a dog that doesn't shed too much, doesn't smell and is a good family pet. Preferably a small dog. My daughter wants a Labrador and although they could be a good family dog, I think it will be too hard to look after. Can you please make some suggestions for us.
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A few thoughts:
You don't "have" to buy a dog (you want to get a dog) =)
You don't have to "buy" a dog (you could adopt) =)
A dog should be the family's dog (and the family's responsibility) not the children's dog.
Dog's don't smell when they are brushed and bathed. I brush my terrier mixes daily and bathe them once a month.
Why not consider an adult dog? You know exactly what you're getting, and you'll be saving a life.
Check out http://www.petfinder.com and look for mid-sized poodle mixes in your area.
In the meantime, do some serious soul-searching. From reading your post, it doesn't sound to me like you are the one who really wants a dog....and if that's the case, don't get one OK?
I have a 2yr old Lab cross. Not only do they shed fur all year round, they are excitable, stay "puppies" mentally for at least 2 years, chew a lot, and need a lot of training with a good trainer/behavourist. They will pull on the lead (unmercifully) if not trained and are born scavengers and mischevious to extreme. They also need a lot of excersize.
A nice dog that is relatively easy to care for is a Shih Tzu. They have a GREAT disposition and are very friendly. Not at all little "yippy" dogs. My sister has one and it's the best dog I have ever been around. Very easy to care for, smart, friendly and calm.
Labs are great but in my experience shed like crazy. They also require a lot of exercise and care. I like to think of them more as a "farm" dog where they have lots of room to stretch their legs.
We are currently looking for a dog for my sons, who are 5 and 8. We will NOT be getting a puppy because they are almost as much work as having another toddler. I think a young female, maybe just over a year. We also are going to adopt a dog from the Humane Society. That way, it will have all it's shots, be fixed so no puppies or behavior problems in the future, have a microchip just in case and we will be taking this dog out of the overcrowded shelter system. Our animal shelter also has a 30 day return policy so if the dog doesn't work out with the kids, you can return it and get a dog that suits you and your family.
I have heard too much about puppy mills and problems with purebred dogs to want to "invest" in a dog that could have just the same (or worse) medical conditions as any "pound dog." The only reasons that I can see getting a purebred is if you want a show dog or as a status symbol. I'm just looking for a friend for my kids.
Good luck and be sure to post a picture of your new dog when you get him or her.
Jess
Small children CANNOT safely handle a lab on a leash, even if it's well trained. I suggest a poodle, or poodle mix. They don't shed much, and usually are bright. You could try a poodle rescue, I'd recommend one already proven with children, not too much over the age of 2, which will be out of the puppy stage but still young enough to "learn new tricks" (so to speak) : )
Any dog at some point will stink. They might get into something gross in the yard, get sprayed by a skunk & just be ready for a bath. They all shed to some degree so if you don't want dog hair, forget it. The dog should be in the house as a part of the whole family w/everyone responsible for the mental, emotional & physical health of the dog.
We have a yellow lab and a Jack Russell Terrier. The lab chewed on everything when he was young, but he is a wonderful dog now. I wouldn't recommend the terrier to anyone! We love him but he is alot of work and a bundle of energy! Please consider adopting a dog instead of buying one. I work with animal rescue and there are a ton of wonderful animals looking for their "fur-ever" home!
I am with luvmygingerkids, it doesn't sound to me like you want a dog. If you are buying the dog just because your children "have" to have one, don't do it. Believe me from experience you will be the one taking care of it when the kids tire of it and they will as children do with all things and it sounds to me like you don't want to care for a dog.
We have a Bichon Frise. Bichon's do not shed, and do not have a "doggy" smell. Our Bonnie is the love of our lives and the best "Child" that we have. She is very active and playful, but never nasty or mean. She has tons of energy but she is small enough, 12 pounds, that she doesn't over-run you. And she is extremely smart. She obeys us and understands most of what we say to her. She does have to have a trim every few months or so, or just regular brushing. She's definitely our pick!
first of all go to the spca without the kids. talk with the adoption counselors. then go and meet the dogs. the dogs can pretty much adopt you.
I have alot of allergies and I do not like doggie odor. We have 2 Yorkies. Great dogs, do not shed or smell. Our dogs are 9 & 10. Also Maltese and Poodles do not shed.
I would suggest a Shih Tzu, especially a female. They are small dogs, females don't generally get to be more than 10 pounds. They are friendly, loving, affectionate, and just a joy to have around. They don't shed much at all if any. I've never had to clean up any shed fur and I have 3 of them.
The down side to Shih Tzus is that they have to be brushed at least every other day or they will get terribly matted. I take a different route with mine and have their hair cut back. They don't look like glamorous Shih Tzus then, but are much easier to care for. It doesn't change their personality at all, and unless you plan to show it, you really don't need all the hair unless you have alot of time to do the grooming that it will need.
If you do get a Shih Tzu, please let me know how you make out with it.
Please decide if you really want a dog. I have allergies and cannot have an inside dog. They really bother me, and hearts will break if everyone gets attached and you have to give it away. An inside dog is also a lot of work. In my opinion, your children are not at an age that they will be able to be totally responsible for the pet's care. Are you ready to a good part of it? I think pets are important and we've always had them, but don't fall into the trap of allowing your children to dictate their wants as your needs. Puppies are adorable, but they take as much work as another child. Are you able to put that time into one? Your children probably won't be able to handle a larger breed for a few years, so if you're serious, look toward a smaller dog. Otherwise, talk to your children about other pets until they get a little older. Have you thought about a dwarf rabbit, a hamster, a guinea pig, some fish, african water frogs, newts, a bird, or even a cat? I'm not trying to talk you out of it, just be sure. I worked at a shelter and have seen the "mistakes" so many have made. Pets deserve to part of a loving family. Good luck in whatever you and you family decide.
I see where a couple of people reccomended a shih tzu. Please do NOT buy them one I just had to put one down because he had "rage syndrome" I don't think I'd get them a small puppy I would go to a rescue and get them one.There are so manny of unwated dog's that need a home.
All dogs will smell sooner or later! They don't bathe daily like we do, so they will smell! I am 40 years old, grew up with dogs ands have three now. Trust me, they will smell! Poodles and yorkies seem to have oily stinky skin. Big dogs make big messes even tho the small ones can too. I would start with hermit crabs to give your girls something to be responsible for and care for. Puppies are a huge responsibility. If you get a new puppy, it's just like having a newborn requiring around the clock care. Kittens are much easier. Consider getting a pet from the pound or shelter rather than buying one. Some of my best dogs have been mutts! Good luck!
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE take MY advice! Go to your LOCAL dog rescue organization and VOLUNTEER to be a FOSTER mom! Fostering will give you an idea on what dog ownership is like, and will let you know exactly how your children will contribute to the dog's welfare. Continue to foster until you find a good fit for your family...good luck, let me know if you follow this advice, please! Bobbiereyes1ataimdotcom
I have found the best family dog for kids is a boxer they don't ever smell and keep themselves clean. they love kids and are very intelligent. They are also protective over their kids.
You should go to the humane society or the pound and save a life. I have also found out that the best dogs are mutts haha talking from experience. I have puppies that i am giving away and are wonderful dogs.
what abot a jack russel famale
they have realy shor hair and dont smell lol
they are realy friendly
aswell
You might not like big dogs but I have a boxer and he is the best dog in the world.
You rarely have to give them baths because of the short hair and they don't smell or shed very much.
I also have a German shepherd and they are excellent with kids. You might not think so but I have had them my whole life ever since I was born and they are awesome for your kids. The only bad thing is their hair.
I have a picture of my boxer now down there. He's a big baby.
Jack Russells are extremely busy, active dogs with minds of their own. Good Labs are great family dogs with generally even temperment and don't panic at every little thing. They stay young and silly but after a year or so you have a fantastic dog. No, I'm not a lab person. I have GSD's
Go on-line to American Kennel Club (AKC) to find breed info, temperment, life-span, suitability, trainability, grooming needs, and health concerns of different breeds.
Personally, I would not adopt a rescue dog for young children, due to possible past treatment of the dog and unknown behavior issues. Especially since your family sounds inexperienced. Rescues are great for older kids and adults. I know I will take a slam for this position, but the welfare of young children takes priority.
A 7-9 week old puppy is your best bet. Even though it's lots of work. The age window of 8 to 16 weeks is the most important time in a dog's development. This is when they learn what the world is all about, and what their place is in it.
Research training, I cannot stress that strongly enough. There are some great books, T.V. shows, tapes, DVD's. Cesar Milan comes to mind, also the Monks of New Skete.
Also research breeds to see what fits in your family style. If you buy from a breeder, make sure dam is on site. See her with visitors, and when her puppies are near. Is she open, friendly, secure. Or is she snarky and uncomfortable.
Don't pay big bucks for a designer dog. The mixes haven't been around long enough to see how they develop. A lab/poodle mix may not have all the positive traits we associate with those dogs. The litter might have inherited the problems.
Talk with dog owner friends and research, research, research.
Most dogs end up in shelters because of behavior problems due to owners who will not take time to raise their pup properly. This is a family member you are adopting. The years of rewards your family will enjoy will more than make up for the initial research and training.
By the time your new puppy loses that wonderful puppy smell, you will adore your new family member. If you decide on a small dog make sure you train appropriately. Without training they become little dictators.
P.S. Go on line to find "Puppy Temperment Test", print and take with you to select your puppy. Sorry I have many copies, but no link and no scanner.
I adore Shi Tzu's. They're very calm dogs, small and manageable, and they don't shed. The only trick to them is haircuts. If on the off chance you can find a Chihuahua/Boston Terrier mix, this works out to be a really great dog. They're small, happy, beautiful, short haired dogs (sheds but easy to maintain), always ready to please, and very playful. I tend to find that mutts have the advantage on the gene pool, anyway, and tend to have fewer health issues.
Females are generally a little milder and sweeter than males in any breed. I highly recommend having the dog spayed or neutered before they reach sexual maturity. This not only helps prevent certain cancers later in life, but keeps them playful and active.
Good luck.
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