Therefore, I'm hoping any experts (hello Bev?) out there can give me some advice on what breed to look for, based on the following:
- Independance - it would be nice if the dog were able to be on its own for occasionally extended periods. I put in some long days on occasion, and may not always be able to dash home to feed/let out a dog.
- Short hair. It would be nice to find a breed that's relatively hypo-allergenic, and doesn't require a lot of brushing/grooming.
- Affectionate. A dog that gets along well with children (ie: the J-man!) and visitors would be nice, and a major change from the aforementioned cat.
- Calm. All dogs need exercise, I get that. But again, with a busy lifestyle, it may be hard to fit in extended frolicking some days. So, if the dog doesn't absolutely need a lot of exercise, or can get by with chasing a ball down a hallway instead of a walk some days, that could be a good thing.
- Agreeable. No interest in strong-minded and/or stubborn beasts. We had enough of that with the cat.
That's my wish list. Basically, I'm looking for a dog that is playful, but not hyper. Affectionate, but not bouncing off the walls. A calm buddy who likes some fun every now and then, but also appreciates the value of some quality "me" time. Is that realistic?
6 comments:
Oh, you're not asking for much. :)
Me, I'm sold on Shih Tzus, and they fit a lot of the bill here. They're small, so don't usually need a lot of outdoor exercise, though they usually like it. They're not the type of dog to take jogging, especially in the heat, because their mushed-in noses don't let them handle heat as well as some other dogs. They're also usually calmer than other small dogs, and very affectionate.
Long-haired dogs can be shaved down every couple months or so, so they don't require as much grooming as if you keep them long-haired. That's what I do with mine -- costs about $45 every couple months or so.
Other hypo-allergenic breeds include poodles, bichon frise, schnauzers, kerry blue terriers, havanese, and Portuguese water dog (like Obama got). There are mixes, of course.
Bichon frise are friendly and happy little guys, but would also require some grooming. They are not generally energetic dogs (though I have a bichon/shih tzu cross with enough energy to power Regina). Most Bichon's I've met are just happy to be with their owners.
Schnauzers tend towards stubbornness, I understand, and need more exercise.
Standard poodles and Portuguese water dogs also require more exercise. Poodles -- all sizes -- tend towards excitability, though the smaller ones are more high-strung.
As well, I'd like to suggest getting either a purebred dog or a rescued dog (either from the Humane Society or a rescue). With a purebred dog, you can be more sure of what their personality will be like. With a rescued dog, they're usually evaluated by someone who knows dogs. A puppy is a lot of work for the first 6 months or so. An adult will need some time to get used to their new environment, but usually only a few weeks at most.
Note that 'hypoallergenic' -- in dogs, anyway -- doesn't mean there's no chance at allergies. Most allergies are to dander, but some may be to saliva, as well. I'm somewhat allergic, but my dogs don't bother me, unless one decides to lick the inside of my nose. (Dogs don't always pay much attention to where they're licking, they just lick). That may be something you want to look at.
If you're going purebred, find a really good breeder, and they can tell you about their breed. They really don't cost a lot more than petshop dogs, but you're usually guaranteed better health and disposition.
If you're going rescue, you can check the Regina Humane Society here: http://www.reginahumanesociety.ca/
Bright Eyes rescue (a new one here in Regina -- I can give you her e-mail address, but I'm not sure how many dogs she has yet); Precious Paws Pet Rescue, though they usually work with cats http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/SK08.html ; and the rescue I work with, New Hope Dog Rescue, based in Saskatoon but with foster homes all over the province: http://www.newhoperescue.org/
(Yes, New Hope is my rescue of choice :) )
Here's Daphne -- I almost fostered her, but someone else got her first. :) I understand she is just about the perfect dog, though she is 8 years old. She's probably still got several years in her, though. Small dogs do live longer: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16013144
The Humane Society or a rescue like New Hope can probably tell you more about the dogs in their care.
If you'd like to chat more about this, you can e-mail me: muntain at sasktel dot net. Hope you find this helpful!
Thanks Bev!
I filled in a couple of on-line "which breed is best for you?" questionnaires, and Boston Terrier came up first each time.
There's even a Boston Terrier rescue group - ever heard of them?
I definitely want to do my homework before making a decision. And if it turns out that getting a dog isn't the best idea right now, that's okay too.
Oh sure. I used to know the Saskatchewan Boston Terrier rescue person. Not sure if she's still the same contact.
If you'd like to contact BT rescue and don't have the information, I can get it for you.
Boston Terriers are cute little guys. :) I've never worked with this breed, so I don't know their temperament myself. The rescue folks will know, though -- they obviously love the breed to put that kind of effort into rescuing them. :)
It looks like they only have one in Saskatchewan right now, and here he is: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16138929
Frank. I could work with that.
What a sweet looking guy!
And BT Rescue are good folks. They'll want to interview you, and will have someone visit your home, just to make sure you are who you say you are. :) I've done homechecks myself -- it's a nice chance to meet people who like dogs. They'll want to make sure the dog goes to the right home for that dog; and that the home gets the right dog for them.
Good luck on your puppy journey!
(why am I so excited for you? oh yeah. because I love talking about dogs... :) )
And I certainly appreciate it!
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