Help with dog choice please! - Lung Conditions C...

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Help with dog choice please!

BronchyBronwen profile image
73 Replies

I have, after much consideration over a much longer period than lockdown, decided to get a dog! I have bronchiectasis (not severe fortunately, but with current exacerbation). It would be a tremendous help if anyone could recommend specific breeds. I already have a cat and dog hoover! Am also torn between a rescue dog or a puppy. Have been shielding, have small house and garden, so thinking small dog, perhaps hypoallergenic. Would be so grateful for some advice please.

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BronchyBronwen profile image
BronchyBronwen
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73 Replies
watergazer profile image
watergazer

That's great- dogs are amazing. Not sure what to advise as my last dog was a German Shepherd - too big for your house and garden. There are dogs that don't have fur like most. Rescue dogs can be very rewarding and puppies cute but a lot of hard work needed for training . Sorry I not helping but wishing you well in your choice x Anita

Damon1864 profile image
Damon1864Volunteer in reply towatergazer

Hi I have a little Jack Russell rescue dog he is so loving, I love small dogs infact any dog. I wish you luck with your choice and please let us know what you decide. Have a good night and take care 😊 Bernadette xx xx and Jack the jack Russell xxx

I guess if you are able to walk the dogs regularly and are ok to pick up their poo when out another dog would be ok Perhaps a smaller dog since you say you have a small flat, take into account their character, ie some dogs need a lot of walking and play time otherwise they can get destructive and even depressed or aggressive.

I love little Midge and would adopt her given half the chance :)

I would suggest a Jack Russell puppy. Rescuing a dog is certainly a worthy thing to do but most are homeless because they have developed problems that their owners have been unable to deal with. Choosing a good breeder who will provide you with a pup of known parentage which is likely to have inherited good traits will suit you much better. It will learn only what you teach it and develop into an ideal companion. Choose a smooth haired type, a bitch I would suggest and you won't need much help from your hoover. A bitch will learn to pee where you want it to, a dog will lift it's leg where he wants to. Early training is important and if you have no experience of that there are plenty of dog training places around, good for socialising, or books and magazines on the subject. Just my thoughts on the matter. 😉

Hi BronchyBronwen, as you can see, Twinkle, my companion for the last eleven years, is a Pomeranian. During a lifetime of bronch I have had 2 Bernese Mountain dogs and a cavalier together when the children were growing up. Then a huge Leonberger with a japanese spitz. I loved them all and they all kept me walking - and copiously brushing!

I always had large houses, well adapted to large dogs.

When I was contemplating moving to a much smaller and easier to manage house I decided to go for a much smaller dog to fit his surroundings.

He is certainly no cissy handbag dog and had to be trained just as a larger dog would be. Also his coat takes some brushing.

It is worth bearing in mind that small terrier dogs have very muscular bodies and this makes them heavier to pick up than those with a lighter frame such as poms, chihuahas, papillons, japanese chins etc. Also, terriers really do need that walk every day whereas the other type of small dog loves to go for a walk but is not going to be too troubled if you have one of those when you just don't have the energy.

Don't think that I want to put you off a terrier type dog. They are fabulous companions. Just pointing out the differences when you are deciding which sort of dog will suit you. I have never had an allergy to the fur of any of my dogs or my many cats so I am lucky.

Do let us know what you decide.

in reply to

Your are right about the terrier breeds, they are muscular and heavy for their size. They don't like being picked up but do like to be close to you. This makes them useful guard dogs ideally suited for people living alone. Whilst very friendly on the whole not many undesirables risk messing with a Jack Russell. Often people with our complaints need a bit of encouragement to get up off their backsides, and a Jack Russell will provide that. 😉

in reply to

I had a friend who had a pack of six Jack Russells. I adored all of them. What a bunch of characters they were. Nobody messed with her !

Bevvy profile image
Bevvy

Why don’t you do both? Get a puppy from a rescue centre!

in reply toBevvy

Knowing the parents is important. Taking on a badly bred pup could land you with a load of vet bills in a very short time.

peege profile image
peege

I'd make list of priorities ie top of the list: size, sex, pup, young dog, old dog

I have an £800 mongrel. 50% Tibetan terrier, 25% cocker spaniel & 25% poodle. She doesn't shed but her hair, like ours never stops growing. I cut it myself - just like j did the childrens, 1" all over. Non shredders need to be cut regularly at about £35 a pop.

I've already decided that should I outlive Lola then my next will be a cavalier cross poodle. They're smaller than mine, easy to pick up a d put in the kitchen sink for a bath.

So much to consider. I agree with Don, rescues can come with problems. My lovely chocolate lab resue (at 7 months) was always a quite tricky.

in reply topeege

You and Don are so right about rescues. My heart has said to have a rescue but I have always ended up having a puppy from a reputable breeder, especially as I have grandchildren. Every rescue dog that I have known, much as they were loved, had problems which made life with them as you say -tricky. With a puppy you imprint yourself on them.

peege profile image
peege in reply to

Yes, you're right. Heart says save them but in reality it's to risky unless you're a dog behaviourist or can afford to employ a good one.

Towards his end Freddie took umbrage when I put a bit of food in his bowl, he took a chunk out of my upper arm. 21 stitches . All I could think was "it could have been a small child's cheek". He was a stunningly handsome beautiful animal who'd been so badly treated as a pup involving beatings and drugs - I only found that out years later. So sad. P xx

in reply topeege

Oh poor Freddie. These rotters damage them for life.

Annie31 profile image
Annie31

Having had two golden Labradors and two shih tzus, my recommendation would be given the size of your house and garden, a shih tzu. They have all the attributes of a Labrador in that they are loyal, affectionate, fun loving but in a much smaller body! Also they are non-shedding and classed as one of the hypoallergenic breeds. The only downfall that I claim is that they need grooming every day and need to have their hair cut every six to eight weeks if you want to keep their hair under control. But they are so pretty!! Lol! Such lively, comic little characters and if you need a dog to cuddle you can't do any better!

We have got a year old black standard poodle now (the large poodle). We have had her since 15 weeks old, hyperallogenic and she has been I have to say the best puppy we have ever had to train. But they do require a lot of exercise each day but my husband is very fit luckily so fulfills the role of exerciser, no problem! This breed was his choice and after letting me have the pets of my choice throughout the years I felt obligated to bow to his choice!

She is a wonderful dog, very intelligent and quick to learn but as I said very boisterous. Good luck with your search. Funnily enough my first Lab was a notch and her pedigree name was Bronwen Girl! Lol!

maryemma profile image
maryemma

Hello how lovely to be getting a new member of your family ,a puppy , I got a Yorkshire terrier ,he was easy to train ,their hair does not shed and poodles are the same .u tube have loads of videos on every kind of training . I have two lung complaints and was fine with a Yorkie 🐩🐕🐾

Kristicats profile image
Kristicats

I would absolutely love a miniature Jack Russell or mini poodle. Unfortunately my cats would not tolerate another pet. It’s very sad as I thought a small dog would be great for my exercise and retirement . I had two dachshunds until around 10 years ago ( Pepsi and parcel ) I still miss them. I did check the parents before I got them Re temperament though.

Be very careful with rescues though as you could get one with real behaviour issues and it must be awful to have to return one.Good luck go for it Cx

Caspiana profile image
Caspiana

Please look in your local shelter. I got my Chom from a shelter. Best dog in the world. xx 👋😊

janeworried profile image
janeworried

Hi, we have had a bichon frise from a puppy. She is now 11 years old and adorable. She is a cross between a poodle and a water spaniel. Her fur is hypo-allergenic and she doesn't malt. She is a small dog and very friendly and loving. Would recommend this breed to anyone. Hope this helps,

Jane.

Johnsel profile image
Johnsel in reply tojaneworried

Hi Jane yes had two adorable Bichon Frise when in the UK. Very affectionate and loving dogs and a real lap dog. Now in Spain have a rescue Jack Russell, was 4 years old when we had her, she is nearly 15 now and a very loving and ultra intelligent dog. Still loves to play. Carole x

Ep1234 profile image
Ep1234

Please don’t think all rescue dogs are given up because of bad behaviour , my last three dogs are rescues ,Charlie was a Scottie his owner died he was a beautiful boy but needed a lot of walking ,I now have a Pekingese ,had her two years she is ten now a lovely nature ,doesn’t need much walking and then I Have Harry a tiny Yorkie he is 14 he was ill treated and only has one blind eye ,two teeth and is the most loveable boy you could wish for he is constantly curled up next to me . Being blind doesn’t stop him he runs around the garden as happy as can be , not every rescue is a bad dog there are a lot of bad owners .

ledge profile image
ledge

An unexpected choice for a dog could be a rescue ex racer greyhound

There coats are easy to maintain... in fact they are so lightly coated they need jackets when its cold wet. Some even wear pjs when the heating is down at night

Despite their looks they only need 40 minutes excerise a day. They will then happily snooze on your couch nrxt to you all day. They curl up remarkable small too

They are gentle and want to please

They do range in size from medium to large....all walk well leads.

Some will tolerate cats... for the first few weeks walking out with a muzzle on is obligatory...but as you get to know your dog you will know whether a muzzle is needed anymore. If you see most walked greyhounds they are all generally eithout muzzles. In fact i have seen far fiestier small dogs.

The homing kennels will know a lot about each dogs temperament and match the dog to the owner

Good luck in search ...

Tinker26 profile image
Tinker26

I have my adorable Bonnie a little collie cross that I got as a pup from the dogs trust ,she is now 14 and has a little bit of arthritis,love her to bits x

kathbrad3 profile image
kathbrad3

Over the years I have had half a dozen rescue dogs and all have been well behaved and loyal I would always choose a rescue dog

scotagee profile image
scotagee in reply tokathbrad3

Me too...over the years I've had rescues, usually more than one at a time and a variety of sizes, ages, and both dogs and bitches.

When I said to my vet that I'd always been very lucky with them, he said "Luck has nothing to do with it"

I think if you give love and respect then you'll get it returned tenfold. Pity that doesn't always apply to humans :)

Willanna profile image
Willanna

I have a Border collie she is the sweetes natured dog ever, she's gentle with lots of love & affection. She is 11 years old now but she was so easy to train as border collies love to please & are eager to please.

crystalboots profile image
crystalboots

Hi Bronwen we have a yorkshire terrier he is the most loveing dog we have evere had

and the do not have a under coat so dont shed he is our first small dog our others where border collies and hamilton hound all big and bouncy .

hope this helps ,stay safe

x john

Ozzydiamond profile image
Ozzydiamond

Ive always had rescue dogs and all three have been fantastic. A huge Rottweiler/ Alsatian cross, a small daschund cross, and a Parsons Jack Russell. All three have been fabulous but the Jack Russell needs a lot of exercise, he’s very energetic and much harder work than the other two! he’s very nosy, and will chase anything that moves! I would always have a rescue dog. Rescue centres will help you with choosing the right one for you.

Good luck!

scotagee profile image
scotagee in reply toOzzydiamond

Well said. Most rescue dogs end up in shelters through no fault of their own and make wonderful companions if treated well.

Too many people buy a "cute" puppy with no thought to their future needs, or are just so fickle that they get fed up with them and pass them to rescue centres.

Then there are some who's owners have died or gone into long term care where dogs aren't allowed.

Very few are beyond rehoming

SDio profile image
SDio

I did a lot of research years ago for a hypoallergenic dog. My choice was 100% Bichon Frise, but I end up with a parrot from the Amazon Forest. The Bichon Frise is very playful with a happy personality, the only concern you might have is that you can't leave this dog alone for long periods of time (a day), they are too emotional and attached to their human beings. Good luck!

Jandm profile image
Jandm

Hiya BronchyBronwen. We have a labradoodle. Fabulous temperament, really relaxed, good at letting you know if anyone is around clever, just a wonderful little boy and the bigger bonus is he doesn’t shed at all. They literally the package deal. I hope you find your perfect dog. He certainly completes our little family

Bronchi1 profile image
Bronchi1

I had a rescue mongrel as a pup. Amazing dog! Very clever. A family member has a border collie. Also an amazing dog but very energetic , easy to train, affectionate but needs lots stimulation and exercise. The most intelligent breed. Dont forget the costs involved with having a dog. Vet bills etc . Can be astronomical. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Elaiworthy profile image
Elaiworthy

I have a cockerpoo, they don’t shed, just need clipping from time to time. Cavapoo and cavapoochon are the smaller no shedding dogs. I have Bronchiectasis and Asthma and chose the cockerpoo due to no shedding low allergy breed. We got her from a reliable breeder, who also helps an owner to rehome a dog who came from them but owner who can no longer care for eg their other dog doesn’t get on with new dog. We researched fully before getting our lovely Hatty who is great with other dogs and exceptional with our young grandchildren and is fine in our small garden. But we all favour certain breeds which suit our life and environment.

Good Luck.

Johnsel profile image
Johnsel in reply toElaiworthy

Trouble is sometimes you can get it wrong, my daughter bought a Cockerpoo thoroughly researched it first. It was the puppy from hell, very aggressive, bit my daughter and granddaughter and was into everything. Could not get him toilet trained. He was taken to training classes as soon as he could but nothing made any difference. Unfortunately they had to return him to the kennel where they bought him. Broke all their hearts but the children ended up being frightened of him. Other friends I know who have Cockerpoos have had no problems at all. Some dogs do have mental problems, just like some humans. Personally I think a lot of this inbreeding now days doesn’t help. All the best to whatever dog you choose. They are wonderful companions. Carole

Tarzy profile image
Tarzy

I have a Jack Russell called suzzie she is such a loving dog I wouldn’t be without her now since my husband passed away in September 2018 she has been such good company for me since my cancer operation she is always by my side it’s like she wants to protect me

I am asthmatic as well as bronchiectasis, and allergic to most dogs so was anxious when my eldest daughter said they were getting a dog. They did a lot of research about allergy etc and her husband is a vet so plumped for a border terrier. He's a lovely small dog with a great temperament and I am not allergic to him at all! I can stroke him and he can lick me and no ill effects.

helenlw7 profile image
helenlw7

I have asthma and Bronchiectasis. We have hypoallergenic two dogs, Schnoodles - schnauzer/poodle crosses. They don’t affect my breathing, don’t moult and don’t need a huge amount of exercise. From my experience, any of the poodle crosses are a good choice. They are friendly and have lovely personalities. They have been a life saver to me during lockdown.

royvax profile image
royvax

hi bronwen like you i gave a lot of consideration before i bought my dog candy, i decided i didnt want a big dog as they would pull me over and they do big poos lol i didnt want a terrier as they tend to be a bit to lively for me. i decided i wanted a dog that i was able to pick up and cuddle and didnt need long walks but would go on one if i wanted to also one that didnt moult and a few other considerations. after serching the net i decided on a cross between a bichon friese and a shitz zu. my main reason for want a dog was companionship as i was forced to retire through ill health and i hated it since i have had candy she puts a smile on my face every day. before you decide look up zuchon on the internet. best of luck and borra da

Bingo88 profile image
Bingo88

I would have thought a Short haired dog because of moulting etc. And There are Greyhound rescues That look for homes after their racing career has finished And its a fallacy to believe that they need plenty of exercise We Always had Staffordshire bull terriers 3 rescues we had all very loving and Placid Good luck with your choice Brian

kathbrad3 profile image
kathbrad3 in reply toBingo88

Most of my rescue dogs have been greyhounds or lurchers the only complaint I had about them is there was never a place in the sofa for me I had a saluki cross who knew what time I went to bed and if I hadn't moved within ten minutes of that time would sit and stare me out

Bingo88 profile image
Bingo88 in reply tokathbrad3

Lol oh yes they are more intelligent than you realise Our last Staffie As soon as the phone started ringing for me to tell the wife roughly what time I would be home She was waiting to get in the back garden and sat waiting for me I still miss my dogs A little Whippet Would do Good luck with your choice Brian

kathbrad3 profile image
kathbrad3 in reply toBingo88

Yes a whippet would be a great choice I had one from a pup he was a lovely gentle dog

Wimble profile image
Wimble

You have already been given lots of advice so I won’t bore you. I went through the same thing many years ago and with hindsight I think I should’ve got a retired greyhound but if you have a cat, that’s probably not a good idea! I’m sure you have considered the expense, the walking, the dog hairs and the cat which seem to be your main issues. Poodles don’t shed and shitzus are great. I love Jack Russell‘s but they are definitely terriers and very strong willed! The smaller the dog, the more secure your garden has to be. I tried to get a rescue dog but I waited for ages and all they had were Staffordshire bull terriers. Not suitable for the likes of us. Good luck and be prepared for your cat to go into a mega huff. I shouldn’t make light of that as it could be a issue.

Lynnetp profile image
Lynnetp

Hi, I have severe COPD & I had a bichon Frise. They’re a hypoallergenic breed. Very loyal, lap dogs! Do need lots of brushing but their fur is more like hair & so doesn’t shed. Hope this helps 😊

Love Lynne xx

Steveb4257 profile image
Steveb4257

Hi I have a little Malshi (maltese shitzu cross) as it does not shed hair there are also other breeds such as Shitzu, maltese, cockerpoo, poodle, Lhasa apso etc that also do not shed. Apart from the poodle and cockerpoo they are small breed dogs, with my allergies and Asthma they are better for me.

Stay well and enjoy your new dog whatever you choose.

Jamesmum profile image
Jamesmum

That be lovely.., great company. We have a much more n frise... Hypoallergenic, small enough, beautiful nature... Just st perfect!! X

Kate0307 profile image
Kate0307

Hi, I was given a Chihuahua 2 years ago. This wouldn’t have been my choice until I spent a month with my daughter in NZ who also has one. I always thought that they were yapping little dogs! So wrong! They are feisty little dogs that are delusional in that they are convinced they are the same size as a Lab or German Shepard. Extremely protective, a little stubborn, very funny, and so long as you don’t mind them being next to or on your lap, amazing (big 😉) little dog. He is a rescue dog with awful history of abuse so a little timid sometimes, but he is amazing with people, particularly the grandchildren, well anyone really so long as they give him some attention. Couldn’t recommend highly enough! Good luck and enjoy

Maulics profile image
Maulics

We have a Cavashon. No malting at all. Needs regular hair cuts. Both my wife and I have my lung issues and our dog does not affect us.

Pityme91 profile image
Pityme91

Most important to have dog which doesn’t moult , poodle or poodle cross are the only ones I know are safe. Greyhounds are lovely natured dogs but shed copiously. I dog-sit one. Ask vet to advise.

,

CFer profile image
CFer

I have Cystic Fibrosis and I would be lost without a dog. I have a Bedlington terrier which doesn't shed hair and is fantastic with people and especially children. Small to medium in size. It does need a fair amount of exercise though and it helps to keep me as fit as possible without going to the gym and picking up viruses everywhere. If you have a cat though being a hunting dog it would be natural for it to chase. Although if bought as a pup it would probably bond.

gillianTS profile image
gillianTS

Hi, I rescued dobermanns for over 30 years which is very rewarding and great but with lots and lots of hard work.

Many rescue dogs can be hard work due to the lives they have had beforehand, regardless of their age, some work really well to training and changing behaviours already started and others will continue with this long term. The rescue centres are really good at listening to you and your requirements and usually very helpful with any issues you might come up against afterwards.

Having a puppy can be very challenging and time consuming if you have not had any experience or you have not got the time and energy to put into training, having a younger dog that has had socialisation and toilet training is a much better option.

If hair is an issue the following link will help you choose from the 23 breeds listed here, and note peoples comments about others too not listed like the Bedlington etc:

blog.homesalive.ca/dogs-tha...

Having a dog that does not loose it's hair sometimes has a down side especially if it needs to have its hair clipped which is quite costly, unless you are happy to do this yourself.

Owning a dog is a huge huge joy and provides massive amounts of love and happiness, provides endless amounts of entertainment and exercise, as well as the social aspects of owning a dog.

Many behaviours in dogs are man made and can with time and effort be overcome, I had one rescue dog who did not like being left alone at any time, we just increased the time minute by minute until eventually she was more than happy to be left. Other's have been overly protective, or aggressive, unfriendly, protective over food and toys, any issues can be worked on and helped.

One thing I will add and that is if at any time after you have taken on a rescue dog please make sure before you go that you can take your dog back, it is absolutely fine if things do not work out, afterall this is a new relationship, most rescue centres apply this option and if they do not please do not go there.

Good luck, have a fantastic time. 🐕

Lulabelle70 profile image
Lulabelle70

I have a Jorkie ( 1/4Jack Russell crossed with 3/4 Yorkshire terrier) or a mongrel as they used to be called!

She’s small enough to use a cat flap so can be left all day, hardly moults and has a very gentle but sassy personality. She needs as much walking as I am able, so if I’m having a bad time with a chest infection she’s happy either not to go out or a quick 10mins, but if I’m well she loves to be out for an hour or more.

sandravale profile image
sandravale

I would personally recommend going for a small /medium size dog as you need to be able to control it and exercise it. Larger dogs can be more problematic. I'm in your shoes (as I have bronchiectasis) and I have a cocker spaniel. She certainly helps me exercise!

From a practical viewpoint, I would recommend a poodle or poodle cross. Yes the coat has to be clipped but less hair and more hypoalergenic. I have had poodles in the past and they are very intelligent and friendly dogs. Easy to train.

Terriers could be a good option as they are small and intelligent but they can be stubborn and difficult to train.

Rescue v puppy. Looking back, I don't know how I survived Dusty's (my adored cocker spaniel) puppyhood. She had no 'off switch' at all. Speaking to people with a cockerpoo, they agreed about no 'off switch'. I reckon it took a good year for her to calm down. Some breeds are like this and take ages to reach adulthood. Do some research as there is good feedback on the web.

Rescue dogs may take a bit of time to adjust and fit in. They may be a bit set in their ways but can be very rewarding. I would go somewhere with a reasonable choice and discuss your needs with staff. Make certain you spend some time with the dog before you say yes. Yes, I personally think Staffordshire bull terriers get a bad press but they are very athletic strong dogs and can to difficult to control (I certainly couldn't). I'm mentioning them specifically as unfortunately rescue centers tend to have a lot of these dogs.

Anyway, back to my recommendation - a poodle or poodle cross. Up to you but now I would have a big toy / small minature

Sandyeggo profile image
Sandyeggo in reply tosandravale

Excellent advice. And we have the same problem here in USA with the Staffashire and pit bull terriers. A lot of wrong people got ahold of those dogs as status symbols and nearly destroyed the breed with their personal hang ups and so our rescues & shelters are overrun by them and so many get put down every year bcuz they’ve become too aggressive being locked in a cage that their damage is irreversible in the hands of an everyday regular person. You seem to have good knowledge on what it takes to eliminate bad behaviors and encourage responsible dog ownership. Nothing better than walking your best friend down the street going the same pace as you and not the constant pulling dragging you down the sidewalk or lagging behind smelling every particle of earth and peeing on it. I’m laughing here remembering some puppyhood challenges. Thanks

Response profile image
Response

How lovely.

When the respiratory physio came to show my mum Bronch exercises, she said to leave pets outside for an hour before doing the nebuliser or lung exercises.

(You probably know this but I'll thought I'd say it in case you don't.)

Mooka profile image
Mooka

I have always had rescue dogs and refute the suggestion that they have always been given up for bad reasons. Please check out your local rescue centres reputable ones will take into account your circumstances and then match you with a dog. For instance Dogs Trust won’t let some dogs go out to people with young children. My dog is a rescue and she adores children and is really good with my grandchildren. As others have said greyhounds don’t need a lot of exercise and are affectionate dogs. Good luck with your search I’m sure you will find the right dog for you if you take your time.

DeeSending profile image
DeeSending

Hello Bronchy,

I have had many dogs but my greatest joy was a miniature poodle. Having IPF with loads of coughing and extreme sensitivity to constant dropping hair from dogs, the poodle is great as their coats don't shed. Pinot, my current mate is a black poodle cross called a snoodle.He is loving, intelligent and fabulous company. He loves my 2 cats and often sleeps with Ruby and Winkle. He uses a litter tray. As a pup he saw that the cats were using their own litter trays and wanted one too. Their all part of the family. He loves my cooking especially spaghetti dishes. Just a wonderful friend.

Scotjo99 profile image
Scotjo99

Hi, if you are over 60 please have a look at giveadogabone 's website. A relatively new charity based in Glasgow but can operate nationwide, they match up dogs from rescue centres with their potential new humans .

They have an amazing success rate, offer unlimited support & advice, can help financially with expenses & vet bills etc, also have a couple of dog friendly drop on centres offering all sorts of activities :)

Hang on a wee bit & I bet the rescue centres will be busting at the seams h with very confused pets when their owners go back work after months of lockdown, leaving poor pooch on his own again after he's been enjoying company for months too. Not an ideal situation but 1 think that any dog would find unsettling so heaven help us trying to rehome this lot.

Second the suggestions for thr greyhound, might even have to poke gently with a stick to wake him to go fr a walk?

Good luck, hope you find your canine soulmate & it's the start of a beautiful friendship!

rachelmi profile image
rachelmi

Little terriers are great 👍 I’ve had mine since a puppy ( my first dog) but now in future I would always get a rescue dog 🐕 as there are so many needing a second chance of a happy forever home. Good luck with your pooch, I’m sure he /she will bring you a lot of happiness x

Izb1 profile image
Izb1

Hi BB, why dont you ask your local rescue centre if you can foster for a while and see what type of dog you can live with, it may give you an idea of what you are looking for. Wish you all the best x

Sandyeggo profile image
Sandyeggo in reply toIzb1

Really a fantastic idea

Izb1 profile image
Izb1 in reply toSandyeggo

Thank you Sandyeggo, I figure this way you could give back a dog that you didnt get on with or find a dog that you really love and perhaps wouldnt have picked x

Bardear profile image
Bardear

How about a Bishon Frish (not sure I've spelt that right) OR a poodle. Both are pretty small dogs and as far as I remember neither of them moult. So no fur hairs flying around in the air. Both breeds seem to be quite placid and I don't think they need too much walking.

Puppies can be boisterous and they do chew things and go to the loo where they shouldn't. and are hard work if you are unwell. Consider instead an older dog - we have had several elderly ones - they are usually fully house trained, like slow steady walks, do not chew up the place and love you to bits. We have never been disappointed.

As we now live in a 2nd.floor flat and are both unsteady on our feet a dog - sadly - is out of the question.

Pop into your local vets and ask their advice - they might even know of someone whose pet needs a new home because they are unable to look after it.

Happy dog-seeking

lol

xxxxx

winnabago profile image
winnabago

I would go with a rescue dog, your local shelter is a good place to start. My choice of dog's would be a female yellow or white lab. A senior dog might be easier than a puppy. Yellow lab, female, are sweet, docile, well mannered, smart, and very loyal.

jhorsf profile image
jhorsf in reply towinnabago

black labs matter lol

winnabago profile image
winnabago in reply tojhorsf

I have had two black labs and, currently own a chocolate lab, they are all great.

jhorsf profile image
jhorsf in reply towinnabago

I lost my girl a black lab x lurcher 6 years ago , she was a rescue at a year old , she was 14 when I had to tell her everything would be ok whilst holding her at the vets ,I will never forget and live with the sadness of having to have her put to sleep . I have heart failure and bronchiectasis so are unable to now have another dog as I cannot walk far now.

jhorsf profile image
jhorsf

PLEASE consider a rescue a lab x is what you need

Elaiworthy profile image
Elaiworthy

You could get it wrong with any type of dog and it is sad. But my experience was very good. Ours cockerpoo is a girl and and is brilliant. We’ve had other dogs all good each mixed types (Heinz 57) from puppies only problem we had was a older dog from a rescue centre that went to bite me so returned it.

Blackbird8 profile image
Blackbird8

Hi what a fantastic idea regarding getting a dog for company they are the best .. do lots of research on any breed you may be interested in .

Try rescues such as spaniel aid trust etc ...

Jack's have fantastic characters as do lots of small breeds ..

Your dog will find you good luck with your decision making 💜💜💜

Sandyeggo profile image
Sandyeggo

Congratulations all dogs deserve a good human as well as good human deserves dog. That being said rescuing any animal is a very honorable and lovely thing to do. So much to consider since you don’t know what they’ve been through before you. Keep in mind how big of a dog you’re willing to share your life with. My girl is a wolf shepherd and she weighs 83lbs and she’s 10&1/2 yrs old. She’s still very active and in good shape but has her days where she can’t quite jump up in the truck like she use to an I have to help lift her. So how much can you lift,how much can you afford in your budget to spend on feed every month, can you bend over to pick up poop, are you willing to vacuum everyday, not wear black clothing? I personally don’t feel complete without a dog so I’m not trying to discourage but there is quite a lot to consider. If you buy a pup it needs more attention than a newborn child. Pick the runt of the liter as I find they’re most loyal and devoted. If you can’t handle dog hair everywhere go with the poodles and terriers. If you’re looking for intelligence go with shepherd family. Dogs with lots of wrinkles are really fun to look at but super expensive at the Vet. A Shitzu could be everything you’re looking for and small but so are Papions, Pekinese are sorta bratty, Chihuahuas are very loyal and loving but not friendly usually to outsiders. Good food, good training- great life. Good luck. Someday when it takes a nap tell us all who you end up with. As a couple others mentioned a jack russel terrier/comedian is a great dog until you throw the ball and then they want you to keep throwing til your arm falls off, they aren’t big on lazy days or down time until they’re much older. Think about age: do you want somebody in your age group or are you ready for a toddler that will be a teenager at 2 yrs old. Peace and love be with you

Sandyeggo profile image
Sandyeggo in reply toSandyeggo

Oh I should’ve read what blackbird said first as she is right your dog will find you just have your eyes and heart open

Tissot profile image
Tissot

You cannot go wrong with any poodle cross no hairs just love

Georgiab123 profile image
Georgiab123

West highland white best dog for molting , not a pick of bother , we had 2 had them both 20 years when they died miss them both very much

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