Which breed will suit my family?

[Loolypylou]

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I was wondering if I can have some advice. I have 3 children (13,11,3 years old) and feel now is a good time to invite a dog into our lives as well. We'd like a small breed who does not bark excessively, will enjoy playing with the children, doesn't need much maintenance( grooming) and will not use the house as a toilet. I've done some research and cockerpoos, havenese and shitzsu seem like possible suitable breeds. I'd really appreciate any input on this. many thanks

 

[Biker John]

I can only comment on Shih Tzu's out of your list, they need a visit to a groomers at least every 8 weeks, with a comb through fairly frequently in between visits. I have heard others say they have had problems house training them but my lad was easy so how the average are I cant say. The only other point about their coat is that anything in the slightest prickly sticks to them easily.

 

[Loolypylou]

Thanks biker John. Useful comment

 

[lurcherman]

+1 on johns reply, stay away from terriers, totall pains.

 

[Loolypylou]

Yes my parents have always had terriers until recently and much as they are full of personality they wouldn't suit our home.

Thanks lurcherman

 

[excuseme]

If you considered a cockapoo this cross breed again would need regular visits to the grooming parlour as would the suggested "Shihtzu.

Cockapoos are fantastic happy little dogs.

Do look for a first cross only, (cocker spaniel X poodle ) F1. These are only cross breeds they are not a pure breed.

Do not consider any second or third time mixes, the furthur into unknown crossing that you go the deeper into a mongrell situation you get!

Puppies do not come house trained, this is part of your responsibility to train your puppy to do it's toilet outside, and having your own garden can help with this lesson.

Good luck with your choice of a family dog.

 

[Loolypylou]

Thankyou for the reply 'excuse'. I have just been to the vets and discussed the "which breed topic" and he was saying that a rescue dog which is little older (so already house trained in theory) and has some background on personality etc etc might suit us better.

I really want to get this right so appreciate all input.

Many thanks

 

[HappyPawsBedford]

I think rescuing an older dog is a good plan as you will have a better guide to their personality and whether they would suit you or not. I also agree to avoid terriers, I have a year old border terrier and although I love her to bits and she is very funny, she is hard work! Good luck, I hope you find the right dog for you

 

[gypsysmum]

Agree that a rescue would be a good idea. Most rescue centres will take a dog back if it turns out to be a total disaster for your family. Take your time and visit lots. Walk past all the ones that need a lot of coat maintenance and the terriers and their crosses. Not sure how you feel about Staffies but they used to be called the Nanny Dog for very good reason. A well brought up one would be a good choice. Unfortunately their are quite a lot that have not been well brought up.

Beagles are lovely natured dogs but quite strong willed. Greyhounds also make good first time pets. Make sure you go to a well run rescue where they take the time to match you with a dog that suits your circumstances.

I happen to know that Dogs Trust only take you seriously if you register with them and then visit on a regular basis so that they know you are a committed new dog owner and not just out for the day looking at cute dogs. So do go regularly as new dogs come in all the time. I have known them to ring people up when a suitable dog arrives so that they get first refusal. Might happen in all rescues but just a tip.

 

[Loolypylou]

Thanks to all of you that have kindly replied. Really useful advice.

Im still researching it all. xx