A reader asked..
I have been researching toy breeds for quite some time, trying to figure out which toy breed would fit my needs best. I'm usually working 8 hours a day (forty hours per week) and I have no other pets, so I'm looking for a dog that will be okay by itself while I'm at work. Other characteristics that I'm looking for in my new pet is that it is small (preferably under 10 lbs), is friendly with other people/animals, loves to sit in my lap, and is not an obsessive barker. I live in an apt complex right now and I don't think my neighbors would appreciate a loud dog barking all day while I'm a work. Any ideas on what toy breed may be right for me?
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we LOVE our jack russell terrier……he’s NEVER been a problem, but apparently, they aren’t the best house dog……the italian greyhound is really good, so are corgis (and VERY sweet, both of them).
Why get a dog if it will be alone for most of the week????????
Would you want to spend 8+ hours each day in a crate????
Hmm, well I own a pug and I’m in and out all day but she works well for us. Pugs average from 12-20 lbs. If you get a puppy the 8 hours a day wont work if youre trying to crate train and most toy dogs cant be outside all day. Perhaps if you got an adult or even better, get two. Two is better than 1 if you know that you are going to be gone a lot (they wont be so dependant on your attention). We’re already contemplating getting another . good luck !
Sounds like you might like a laid-back, easy going, independent Pekingese.
To see what they look like, check out my web site. http://www.empresspekingese.com
I have had large dogs and small ones, currently I have two ShihTzus. I am having a hard time house training them, they were rescued. My large dogs were not hard to house break at all. I love both the Shih Tzus and Greyhounds. Greyhounds are couch potatoes who only need walking around the complex in the morning and evening. They are not hyper and can be trained not to bark. They love to cuddle in the evenings and will share your bed and couch. Small dogs seem to over compensate their size with barking! Good luck choosing your breed.
Your description of what you desire fits almost any well-socialized toy breed. To ensure you get a well-socialized specimen, buy from a reputable breeder when the pup is at least 12 weeks old.
To avoid a yapper, the Bichon, Yorkie, and Toy Fox Terrier come to mind. Any of these three are likely to bark when someone is at your door, but they generally settle right down once they know nothing unusual or dangerous is afoot.
Good luck.
I would suggest a Shih Tzu. I have one right now. He is a full grown 1.5 year old and is about ten pounds. You have to take him to the groomer about every three months to get his hair (that means he doesnt shed) clipped. They like meals twice a day (breakfast, dinner) and water available the whole day. My Shih Tzu loves to run so after work, take him outside for about 20-30 minutes for a short walk to relieve himself and excercise a little. Good luck!