What is the best small breed dog to own? Any ideas?
By ctrymuziklvr
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
United States
August 30, 2007 3:47pm CST
Since I had to give up my ferrets...long story which I'm not going into because I'll get too depressed...I'm thinking about getting a small dog. I'll be pushing the rules on my lease but I've been looking into laws and there are laws that would allow me to have one under certain circumstances most of which I come under.
There are a few very tiny breed dogs that I've seen and think are adorable. I want one that I would be able to carry with me when I go places. My main priority is that I would want one who isn't known to be a "yapper" if you know what I mean. I love chihuahuas but they seem to have such high, shrill voices don't they?
Does anyone have any experience with smaller dogs? Do you know of any breed that is very small and not very loud?
4 people like this
20 responses
@raychill (6525)
• United States
30 Aug 07
Not all chihuahuas are yappy. My parents owned some and they weren't really yappy at all cause my dad hates yappy dogs. As well as dogs that jump on you and lick you.
So I'd say Chihuahuas would be a good choice. Also how small do you want to go.
I mean, Spaniels...are usually yappy dogs. Not always and not all spaniels, but that's a breed you wanna watch out for with yapping.
Terriers can be nice. They can also be yappy though.
I'd say some other good choices would be Corgi's or Dachsunds.
A good place to check out dogs is
http://www.akc.org/ the american kennel club
and yahoo pets http://pets.yahoo.com/dogs/
they both have info on temperaments and size.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I've checked out a couple of chihuahas and they are so ugly that they are cute...lol....I also love the little "hot dogs"....I'll check out those sites...thanks raychill.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
oops...forgot about the greyhounds. I have an aunt who adopts regular grayhounds and they are precious and perfect pets. I've never realized there were Italian ones though. Should fit right in with my Italian family...lol...
@raychill (6525)
• United States
30 Aug 07
OH and my other suggestion would be an Italian Greyhounds. For one, Greyhounds rarely bark. They whine though, sometimes. But they're GREAT dogs. The Italian Greyhound is the smaller version of the greyhound (And I've had greyhounds...great great dogs!) but I'm not sure if it's small enough for you.
That would be my number one choice for you.
1 person likes this
@msmanners (24)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I have a Chihuahua and a min pin. They are great, but don't worry about the shrill. Not all of them do that. Especially if you get a mix. There are lots of Chihuahua mixes that don't have that kind of bark. If you do decide to get a small dog. Please go to a shelter. There are so many dogs that need homes and they are so very grateful to you when you give them a good home.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
4 Sep 07
I would definitely get a shelter dog. I know there are too many homeless animals in the world and don't understand why more people don't take advantage of getting one who is more needy than a pet store one.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
7 Sep 07
When I had my shituzu I had sweaters and a yellow slicker for him because he hated the rain and the snow so much. I tried the boots but they kept coming off...lol...
@maybebaby (1230)
• Canada
4 Sep 07
I have a Chihuauhua Yorkie Cross and she is great. Only barks occaissionaly and is easy to silence. She is small, just slightly over 6lbs and is a big lap dog. She is very excited when we get home and you'll never feel so loved. The only downside, sort of, is that if you live in a colder climate they will need a sweater. My dog is a smooth coat and she get chilly very quickly. Hope that helps with your decision!
@sweetdesign (5142)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I have a miniature weiner dog and he is my little love. He is a great little dog.He is not tiny though. Chihuahuas do have shrill voices and tend to be yappers. Some are real sweet though. A friend of mine recently had to give hers up but it was not a sweet dog she had a horrible disposition and hated ALL people and other animals. I love little pomeranians they look like little foxes. Good luck in your search.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I've been thinking about the miniature weiners and even looked at a couple today in a pet shop. Their so adorable.
@jennybianca (12912)
• Australia
31 Aug 07
My favourite breed of small dog, by far, are the Maltese/shitzu cross. They are very popular here. A small dog, with hair that needs trimming, they are very affectionate & quite placid.
I will attach a photo for you to see one.
@jennybianca (12912)
• Australia
31 Aug 07
They may not be a recognised breed, but they are extremely popular in Australia. We don't find any in shelters, only large breeds are found in shelters.
Which is better, to choose between a pure bred puppy and a mixed breed puppy. Which is the best choice? There are lot of factors in this decision.
A pure bred puppy will cost more. A mixed breed puppy is often free or cheaper in cost then a pure bred.
1 person likes this
@breepeace (3014)
• Canada
31 Aug 07
Those aren't a breed though. That's just a mutt and people really shouldn't be breeding specialized mutts with the overload of mixed breed dogs in shelters across the world already.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I've had both pure breed dogs and mixed breed and prefer mixed over pure breed any day for all sorts of reasons.
@twoey68 (13627)
• United States
7 Sep 07
They aren't. The only thing you have to watch is since they are so small you don't want to accidently step on or rollover on them. Otherwise they are fine. My friend had his paper trained to use the little puppy papers instead of going out all the time. Since they are so little they hardly do anything when they go potty anyways. Just an idea.
Good Luck and let me know what you decide :)
**AT PEACE WITHIN**
~~STAND STRONG IN YOUR BELIEFS~~
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
7 Sep 07
That is exactly what I'm thinking about....a teacup anything at this point. I didn't think they would be very loud since they are so small.
@mkcd1973 (28)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I have an 18 month old standard size Shih-Tzu. There are also 'toy' or miniature Shih-Tzu's. Although they are long haired dogs (I keep my dog's hair cut short) they are not that yappy as you call it. It is in their breed to bark when someone knocks on the door but other than that he is a very quite dog. They are also smart dogs; mine brings me his bowl if he is out of water or food and he does quite a few tricks. He was also fairly easy to house train. If he needs to go he will move his leash that is hanging by the front door.
Good luck in your search.
1 person likes this
@breepeace (3014)
• Canada
9 Sep 07
Actually there aren't toy or miniature Shih Tzus. Those are likely just undersize or underdeveloped Shih Tzus, probably bred by breeding small dogs to small dogs, or else they are a Tzu crossed with a smaller breed like a Japanese Chin or Chihuahua. A typical Tzu can weigh anywhere from 9-16 lbs at adulthood, and there is only one breed called a Shih Tzu. The Chinese Imperial Palace only recognizes dogs within that size range, so people claiming to have 'Imperial Shih Tzus' are just cashing in on puppy buyer's ignorance.
The biggest problem with that breeding practice is that dogs bred for size alone are left open to a plethora of problems that people concerned with size seem to ignore. If they are underdeveloped; broken legs, heart defects and temperament problems like seperation anxiety and fear biting become more common because the dog will never reach it's full potential. Also, because they are still Shih Tzus (if it's the breeding small to small case, and they aren't crossbreeds), there really is no size guarantee. I have a friend who recently got suckered into the 'teacup' Shih-Tzu scam and her cute little dog who was only supposed to be 6 lbs. at adulthood is now 13 lbs. at 10 months old.
You simply can't play God like that and expect perfection.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
7 Sep 07
I had a shitzu years ago and he was THE perfect dog. I didn't realize they also came in minature sizes.
@mkcd1973 (28)
• United States
8 Sep 07
I thought that all Shih-Tzu's were very small or miniature until I got mine. A lady down the road from me has a couple Shih-Tzu's that are a couple years old and neither of them weigh more than 5 or 6 pounds. I took mine to the vet a few days ago and he weighs 17 pounds.
It's not that he is fat or eats too much he is just a bigger breed. But he is a really good dog, doesn't bark too much unless someone is at the door.
@webeishere (36313)
• United States
30 Aug 07
http://www.smalldogbreeds.net/
Here's a site that may help you decide a breed. I was also thinking chihuahuas till you mentioned yappers. HAHAHA! I think most small breeds fit this category. But this is a list of many different small breeds. browse around reading about each breed. A Yorkshire Terrier came to mind also. But they yap a lot but not like a chihuahua does.
HAPPY POSTINGS FROM GRANDPA BOB !!~
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I actually found a site about Toy dogs! I can't imagine having one so small but it would fit my purpose. Although I've never heard one bark! lol....
@fpd1955 (2074)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I myself have a Jack Russell Terrier that ENJOYS barking at anything, even the moon. My neighbors have a Shitzu, and when she barks I can barely hear her, even when she is standing in front of me. Very cute dog, long curly hair. They shave her in the summer, grows back in a few months. Small enough you would be able to carry him/her around.
Good luck in your search.
PEACE
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
4 Sep 07
I had the best shitzu one time. He was very quiet even when he barked also. But he got too big for me to carry around..lol...
@breepeace (3014)
• Canada
31 Aug 07
I'd get a Miniature Dachshund.
My grandmother has owned them almost her entire life and they've always been sedate and quiet, but not without a goofy streak.
I would have said get an Italian Greyhound, but you specified 'tiny' and while they are little, they aren't tiny.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I didn't realize dachsunds had a goofy streak! That's good to know since I'm sort of leaning their way.
@irishmist (3814)
• United States
4 Sep 07
There are many choices to pick from, but all dogs make noise. Poodles are really sweet, and West Highland Terriers are so loyal. Perhaps you could get a little puppy and train it not to bark. I don't think there is any making a Chihuahua quiet, even though they are so cute and loveable.But hey ya never know. I feel it is all in the training. Any animal can learn to mind their master.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
7 Sep 07
Yes, I know all dogs make noises I'm just looking for one that isn't a "yapper" all the time...lol.
@HollyK (29)
• United States
31 Aug 07
My little baby is a chihuahua and rat terrier mix. He looks like a chihuahua except for his coloring. Everyone thinks he's a jack russell puppy. I have to say "no, he's a four year old dog not a puppy." He weighs just 5 pounds. He's only yappy in the house when he hears someone at the door. Then he's just doing his job as protector. That's another tiny problem he has, he seems to think he's a giant shephard or something because he wants to take on every other dog he sees. But we all love him and in a way admire his courage, or delusion.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I had to laugh reading this. I can see the little guy trying to act like a shephard! lol....they are so cute!
@sweepea2483 (13)
• United States
2 Sep 07
sorry you had to loose Henry, I know they are such good little dogs. My shitsu's name is Bailey but I usually call him baby. I sing him silly songs. Poms are cute little dogs my friend had one.What about a teacup poodle. If I think of some more little dogs I'll answer again. I don't know if I am suppose to answer when I get a response in my e-mail or what to do I am new at this.Good luck on your dog hunting. They are your best friend.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
4 Sep 07
You probably have the answer to your question already because I've been too busy to log on this weekend. Welcome to mylot I'm sure you will enjoy the time you spend here. Thanks for the advice and I am thinking about a teacup anything at this point.
@alfecris (181)
• Philippines
31 Aug 07
for the best breed to own as your pet is St. Bernard because that breed is so nice and cool. though very big but then you can bring that pet everywhere. but if you want some dogs that will really just go with the flow, very sweet and lovable you can take terrier because they are friendsly dog. but if you want a small carrieable, well you can take chihuahua. they are so cute by the way and even if they grow old they would still be too small. the same size as they were until they grow old. by the way those were just my suggestions. but for i would prefer st. bernard. you pick every breed if you like for as long as you can take good care of them.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
4 Sep 07
I've known people who had St. Bernards and your right they are awesome dogs. Maybe some day...lol....for now I'm thinking very tiny!
@doodledog25 (14)
• United States
4 Sep 07
Havanese are great small breed dogs because unlike most small dogs they can be trained to bark only a couple of times every time. They are also great because they basicaly like everybody including strangers.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
7 Sep 07
I've never heard of a havanese but I'll have to check them out. Thanks!
@ArsonCuff (3114)
• United States
30 Aug 07
The kind that do not poop all over the place and eat your stuff..not sure any exact breed fits that, but rather each dog has its own personality and has the potential to be the best.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I've had a lot of dogs in my life and never had one who pooped all over the place or ate my stuff. It's all in the training.
@carlaabt (3504)
• United States
31 Aug 07
My dog is a mini doberman pincer/chihuahua/something else mix. She's probably bigger than the the dog you would like to have. Her ideal weight is about 14-16 lbs, though she does weigh more than that now. She doesn't bark very often and she is great with kids and other pets. The vet said that was probably because of the miniature doberman pincer in her.
My best friend from back home has an italian greyhound. She is really sweet and doesn't bark much. She weighs in around 12 lbs I think.
Small beagles are cute, but they are probably a little bit big, and they have a bark that can be a little bit annoying.
1 person likes this
@worldwise1 (14885)
• United States
30 Aug 07
I immediately thought of the little toy poodle that my daughter and her family had, ctry, when I saw your discussion. Fifi was an adorable little dog. She would always be so cute when they took her to be groomed and she would come home with the little bow in her head, polished nails, coat all curly and cuddly. The kids even taught her to "show her grill" upon request. She was adorable. Toy poodles are the only small breeds that I really like. I find chihuahuas to be too aggressive, and my mom once had a pom that I thought had a mean streak, lol.
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I was actually looking at toy poodles in a pet store today and they are sooooo cute. If you knew me and my personality you would know what a great fit we would make...lol...I'm always doing my nails ...ha ha ha!
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
31 Aug 07
You're right chichuahuas are a very yappy dog and very high strung and nervous dogs...it seems the smaller the dog, the more nervous temprament they have. Beagles are usually a nice dog to get, and have nice tempers, at least I've heard..My great-grandparents had one, named Gypsy
I don't know where you are, but yes there are laws to protect pet owners. ....Here in NY, even if one lives in an apt. with a no-pet clause...if you have the pet for at least three months and have "openly" have it, that is not hiding the dog then the landlord can't make one get rid of it or evict the person
1 person likes this
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I had a beagle when I was growing up and again when I first got married and think they do make the best pets. I have been checking into pet laws recently.
@sweepea2483 (13)
• United States
31 Aug 07
Shitsu are smart cute, little dogs, I have one and love him dearly. Easy to train, love to travel, wonderful loving pet,smart, easy to groom.
@ctrymuziklvr (11057)
• United States
31 Aug 07
I had a shitzu a few years ago and loved that little guy! His name was Henry but I had to give him up because I became homeless. He was the best though.
