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Rellee asked in PetsDogs · 9 years ago

Small and calm dog breed?

My family wants to buy a puppy but we aren't sure which breed is the best for us. We're looking for a dog that doesn't require too much attention, is calm and lazy, but also small (my children are afraid of large dogs). I know not all the requirements will fit in an ideal puppy but if you could give some suggestions and point us in the right direction that'd be great!

Update:

What about the Bolognese breed?

8 Answers

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  • 9 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    A Lhasa Apso is ideal .. they are quiet, calm, intelligent and can be quite happy exercising within the confines of the house/property. Also they don't shed, so they are a good choice to reduce the possibility of allergies. They can live up to the age of 17 year old. The down side is that many small breeds need regular grooming - sometimes daily - unless they are short haired; and the smaller the breed the more prone they are to fractures because of their tiny bones. There are many things to consider about getting any dog, before you even think about a specific breed. Mixed breeds are less likely to have the medical problems that some pedigrees suffer from

    Small dogs have a reputation of being snappy and yappy - but this is largely to do with how they are raised. Many people treat them like little people or even babies and let then get away with things that wouldn't be tolerated (or even possible !) with larger breeds and then wonder why their dog is snappy and yappy ... No dog is naturally like that. It depends on how they are raised.

    BUT - to end up with a well balanced dog when they are older, you need to put the time and effort in when they are puppies - they have an absolute need to be socialized with other dogs and situations - e.g. meeting people other than the family, cars, etc. etc. They need obedience training, lead training etc. They need to be shown how to share their food with others (in case a small child goes near them when they are eating) .....

    A puppy will take up alot of time and commitment before it grows into the type of dog that needs less attention.... It's like having another two year old toddler in the house !!! have you considered getting maybe an older dog, even a one year old perhaps? That way, you don't have house training etc. to consider ...

    Source(s): 30 years ownership/training experience with small through to giant breeds; dog trainer; dog behaviourist; dog rescue (rehanilitating rescue dogs with behavioural problems)
  • Lyssa
    Lv 5
    9 years ago

    The problem with most small dogs is that they are excitable and nervous. Only makes sense really, as in the animal kingdom anything bigger than you is seen as wanting to eat you. If you want a small dog that will be calm and lazy, you will have to do alot of research, and I will tell you its likely not going to be about the breed you find, but the individual pup. I have seen yorkies brought up that are nervous and quick to bark/bite, while I have seen others brought up to be independent and strong.

    If I were you, I would go for a medium to large sized dog, which will in the end be a much better family pet. The kids would start out knowing the dog as a small puppy, and watch it grow to its adult size without fear. I dont know anything about your home, how many kids you have or the kind of space you have to give to a dog, so unfortunately I cant make any specific breed recommendations. There are a number of medium to large breeds that would be ideal as lazy and calm. Please feel free to email me if you want to provide more information and get some breed suggestions.

    Regards

    Lyssa

  • Anonymous
    9 years ago

    Chihuahua, Maltese, Miniature Pinscher, Silky Terrier, or Yorkshire Terrier.

    Most small dog breeds are not very suitable for children. They tend to be more active and have higher energy needs. They can also be snappy and if they aren't given proper direction and training as soon as they come into your home, they can get what is know as "small dog syndrome" - when owners let their small dogs get away with things that large dogs would be reprimanded for. Getting a puppy would even be worse.

    But, every dog is different, so when it comes to behavior, you shouldn't stereotype breeds. Go onto Petfinder.com and search for small, adoptable dogs in your area that have personality descriptions along with pictures. Getting an older dog would be more responsible.

    Source(s): I'm somewhat of a dog expert.
  • ?
    Lv 4
    5 years ago

    A 7 lb. Weight limit does no longer give you a lot option for a canine. Please do not feel a small dog, means little to no endeavor.... Small puppies are handiest huge puppies in little applications. Additionally, much less a hairless breed... ALL dogs shed. Don't study on humans's opinion, research on fact.... Then go from there. I would find a rescue/refuge canine above 7 yrs. As these are viewed senior puppies & even just a little better canine would be extra sedentary via mentioned age.

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  • 9 years ago

    Get a mid-sized grown dog. You will save yourself so much time and headache. Go to a shelter and have a look. There are many, many dogs there needing a home. The puppies are babies themselves. They need to be potty trained just like your children. They chew on EVERYTHING when they are teething. They will need all types of training as well. ALL dogs need attention, training, time with the family, etc. If you cannot commit to raising and caring for a dog, do yourself a favor and especially the dog a BIG favor by not getting one. Also, dogs can live to 15 or even a little older. Can you commit yourself to taking care of a pet for that long?

    Source(s): I have always had a dog or cat. Loved them all. Now we have seven dogs - two are rescues, one came in out of the woods one day - thin and hungery, and the others were just given to us.
  • Anonymous
    9 years ago

    NO offense, maybe you didn't explain yourself right but you really don't need to be getting a puppy. ALL puppies and dogs require as much attention as your children. All puppies are high energy. I would recommend a pug, they are great with kids and they can be pretty lazy and they are low activity dogs but not during the puppy stages. Also these breeds will suit you well: French Bull Dog, English Toy Spaniel, Maltese, Shih Tzu. They are considered the most laid back. Good Luck.

    Source(s): Personal experience
  • 9 years ago

    First puppies and children especially small puppies are a dangerous combination. Second no puppies are calm. Please get an older dog for the safety of the puppy. Get a mid sized older dog like a Basset Hound. Most small dogs tend to be high energy and many are absolutely hyper.

  • my grandparents have a nice dog who is very calm and lazy.

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