Looking to get my first dog?

i currently have a moody calico cat. but im sure she'll warm up eventually. i need something small since we don't exactly have a large yard for a large dog to exercise. something not too loud because we have close neighbors, little, cuddly. i prefer longer hair to short. with the exception of the pug.

suggestions? i've wanted a dog for the longest time and i can finally afford to care for one properly. i'm just not familiar with the different breeds/variations and temperments.

Looking to get my first dog?

I recommend Shih-Tzus. I like them even more when half poodle. Good luck with your new puppy. God bless!!

Looking to get my first dog?

Size wise you might be looking at a small or toy dog. the American Kennel Club has a very nice site put together on breeds. Research as many small/toy breeds you can. DOn't be concerend as much about look, as you should be about attitude. Match the breed's attitude to yours. For example if your cat is allready moody, a chiuaua wouldn't be a good choice. They are yappy and high strung and think they are big dogs. Cain terriers are also out, since they have been origionally bred to flush out rats, They'd be holy terror on poor kitty.

edit to say: If you can't find a purebred that sutes you, or the price range is too high for purebred, why not look into your local anamal shelter? For this I reccomend getting an adult dog because you know what size itd be allready! You can spend time with it before purchase, to see if your attitudes click.

Looking to get my first dog?

Rachel, I think you should seriously consider a Japanese Chin. They are beautiful and just super sweet. They are not pocket puppies, but some are smaller than others. My Presley weighs about 9lbs, and she is considered a large japanese chin. I spoke with one breeder, he was selling some of his puppies as pets because they were too big for show. I asked how big was too big and he said anything over 7 he thought, was too big for show. Most of them rarely bark. I have heard of a few that are pretty vocal, but they are few and far between. They do shed. Which to some might be a turn off. But they are just perfect in every other way. Presley loves everyone. She wants to play with every animal she sees. She stays with my husband and myself all the time. She wants to be with us. She is so funny and playful. I could tell you a million sweet and funny stories about her. Plus, they are not a really common breed. So I would do some research and look for the dog that best suits you and your life style, but look at the Japanese Chins too. I think you will fall in love. Good Luck!

Looking to get my first dog?

A good breed for first-time owner is a Yorkie. Some others is Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, or Shitzu, which are sweet dogs. Best thing is finding a good breeder with healthy dogs and titled parents.