A Small, Calm Dog? - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 01:48 PM

Hubby and I are investigating dog breeds that weigh between 20 and 30 pounds, and have a calm disposition. (We have always preferred the large and giant breeds, but we are no longer able to lift them when they are sick or injured.)

There are numerous small dogs that are appealing, but I have yet to find one that isn't hyperactive or in need of constant attention. I remember a couple of prior topics concerning breed characteristics, but can't seem to find them now.

So TFPers...any suggestions based upon your experience with a breed that is both small and calm? Thanks!

PS: It sure would be nice to have pet topics all in one place.

Gatorade Frost · 08-08-2006, 01:54 PM

Top Dog Breeds for Seniors

I feel so malicious posting that...

maleficent · 08-08-2006, 02:11 PM

glares at the young whippersnapper...

Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big.

Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day.

Bulldogs ugly as sin, but loyal, patient and very sweet low mainteance dogs. my brother has one.. somedays betty pretends she's stuffed and doesnt move.. but will go for walks when asked... is social... Wil put up with abuse by children and well the downside is they snore like fred flinstone...

I'm very partial to that exotic breed of dog known as the MUTT... that comes from the Humane society and will be grateful to you forever for saving it from death row.

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gatorade Frost

Top Dog Breeds for Seniors

I feel so malicious posting that...

My first mail from AARP was some back. I'm over the whole "senior" thing for the most part, sorta, maybe.

snowy · 08-08-2006, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maleficent

Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day.

Unfortunately, greyhounds are huge, heavy dogs. My poochissimo, Jack, is a lab/greyhound mix, and he is NOT small. He is 80+ lbs and TALL. But he's also a very good, obedient dog, and very low maintenance, because of the greyhound factor. He's happy to be a lapdog.

But if size is a concern, no greyhounds, unless you're going to get an Italian greyhound, which are similar in personality to regular greyhounds.

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 02:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maleficent

glares at the young whippersnapper...

Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big.

Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day.

Bulldogs ugly as sin, but loyal, patient and very sweet low mainteance dogs. my brother has one.. somedays betty pretends she's stuffed and doesnt move.. but will go for walks when asked... is social... Wil put up with abuse by children and well the downside is they snore like fred flinstone...

I'm very partial to that exotic breed of dog known as the MUTT... that comes from the Humane society and will be grateful to you forever for saving it from death row.

Greyhounds are really tall, aren't they? I don't know why I didn't think of beagles, who wouldn't want a Snoopy? My granddaughter is a big factor in our choice, so the bulldog sounds good too. Ugly? Should improve my selfesteem.

Rottie and Gus are both rescue MUTTS, but Gus is truly the worst dog we have ever owned. He was a little sweetie when we picked him up, so there really isn't a sure way of telling the disposition of a pup. A beagle or bulldog mixed breed might be a good choice though.

Thanks!

maleficent · 08-08-2006, 02:47 PM

I don't remember the pure bred greyhound that I met as being that big... Tall and slender... but a great disposition.. and the owner of the dog was a major yutz - so the sweet temperedness of the dog came from within... they are smart.

The only real problem with beagles I think, is that they can develop weight problems... and that makes for an unhappy doggy but if it's figure is watched.. tehy are fairly low key..

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gatorade Frost

Top Dog Breeds for Seniors

I feel so malicious posting that...

Wow! That is a great list. Thanks, ya young punk.

Quote:

Originally Posted by maleficent

The only real problem with beagles I think, is that they can develop weight problems... and that makes for an unhappy doggy but if it's figure is watched.. tehy are fairly low key..

That may be a problem. Hubby thinks dogs were made for table scraps. That would be a problem for any breed, I would think.

*Nikki* · 08-08-2006, 03:13 PM

Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big.

Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day.

Bulldogs ugly as sin, but loyal, patient and very sweet low mainteance dogs. my brother has one.. somedays betty pretends she's stuffed and doesnt move.. but will go for walks when asked... is social... Wil put up with abuse by children and well the downside is they snore like fred flinstone... [/QUOTE]

The only breed I agree with here is the beagle. While Greyhounds are calm, they are not small. Also BullDogs can be very wild and have numerous health problems. I hate working with them when they come into my clinic. I am trying hard to think of a small calm dog and the closest thing I can come up with is maybe a Shi-tzu or a Sheltie.

The thing about finding a calm dog is that EVERY dog is different. It's hard to say really that one breed is more calm then the other. I would recommend going to the shelter and picking one based on the behavior you witness. After all mix breed dogs are known to have fewer health problems.

Willravel · 08-08-2006, 03:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maleficent

glares at the young whippersnapper...

Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big.

My beagle has the energy of 15 supergiant stars. He's over a year and a half old, but still is 100% puppy, and acts accordingly. He is also very vocal. He can, and has, barked himself mute over the coures of about a week on several occasions. Compared to my last dog, a wire-hair fox terrier, my beagle is pure mahyem. He is loyal and kind, but he requires supervision. He is also nearing 30 pounds, and none of it is fat (I exercise him twice a day).

BTW, a wire-haired fox terrier might be a good choice. Mine was quite loyal, behaved himself, and didn't shed at all.

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 03:35 PM

Thanks, Will. I should have remembered the Snoopy Dance.

Toaster126 · 08-08-2006, 03:40 PM

Beagles are famous for barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking.

I think you get what I'm trying to say.

Seaver · 08-08-2006, 03:47 PM

A calm dog? Any small dog with owners who can control it.

Basically what it comes down to is small dogs are allowed to get away with things large dogs never would be able to. Therefore they're used to barking, being aggressive, etc and it's acceptable.

Treat small dogs the same as large ones and they'll be calm and friendly.

Gatorade Frost · 08-08-2006, 03:55 PM

Yeah - I got that link from googling "Small calm dog" and voila...

Beagles are energetic barky dogs. They're sweet, but a bit of a pain in the ass sometimes.

paddyjoe · 08-08-2006, 06:22 PM

Elphaba, I know one of these dogs:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/englishspringerspaniel.htm

and can vouch for what a sweet, good natured pooch he is. I think he may be a bit over 30 pounds, but probably not by much.

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 07:05 PM

The bitch usually reaches 40 pounds and that is beyond my lifting ability. Hub might be able to lift that weight sans back problems. I need to consider the maximum I can manage. I followed your link. The "rage" response sounds unsafe for me or my grandchild. Ordinarily, Hub has been the alpha dog for decades. I can't risk a dog challenging his place any longer.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gatorade Frost

Yeah - I got that link from googling "Small calm dog" and voila...

Beagles are energetic barky dogs. They're sweet, but a bit of a pain in the ass sometimes.

I should have added "quiet" dog to my request. I have a home office and I certainly don't need a chronic yapper disrupting phone calls. And I love quiet. A barker would be unloved very soon.

Thanks for the heads up.

Quote:

The only breed I agree with here is the beagle. While Greyhounds are calm, they are not small. Also BullDogs can be very wild and have numerous health problems. I hate working with them when they come into my clinic. I am trying hard to think of a small calm dog and the closest thing I can come up with is maybe a Shi-tzu or a Sheltie.

The Shi-tzu showed up on the list that young fella gave me. I have seen good Sheltie's in obedience classes. I'm going to give them a look.

Rodney · 08-08-2006, 09:02 PM

My parents had a sheltie mix. He was energetic but not loud. He was also very socialized, and basically a sweet little guy. He liked being around people, but didn't necessarily need their undivided attention.

Elphaba · 08-08-2006, 09:04 PM

Rodney, was he patient with babies? I'm really starting to like the Sheltie.

qtpye4u84 · 08-08-2006, 11:12 PM

I have a Teacup Chihuahua he is so cute and small and he doesnt bark hardly at all, even if ppl come over to the house. hes so calm and quite but they cost alot, my friend sold him to me for only $100 better then the pet store they are like $500 there.

I also have a pomeranian but man does he bark his head off dont get one of those.

I have a friend with a fox poo they are pretty calm.

Brewmaniac · 08-09-2006, 02:14 AM

A calm quiet little dog, unless old, I'd try stuffed first. Big dog or no dog for me.

ryfo · 08-09-2006, 03:08 AM

cavilier king charles spaniel are well known for their calm disposition and are quite small and cute. They are also cuddle fiends.

maleficent · 08-09-2006, 04:59 AM

Cavaliers are sweet... but they're kinda barbie dogs... they have accessories and you have to pack for them if you go anywhere

I'd have a tough time seeing you go from two rottweilers to a cavalier...

amonkie · 08-09-2006, 05:16 AM

The only cavaliers I've known have been skittish and barkers - there goes the quiet.

I had a cocker spaniel for 10 years, and she was ~30 pounds. She did not bark unless someone was at the door, and loved nothing better than to follow you around and lay on your feet.

However, the other 5 cockers I have had ranged from the one above to never ending ball fetching machine. It all goes back to the individual dog. Size wise, cocker spaniels are near the higher end of your weight requirements if kept in shape. I have one right now that is ~15 pounds and another that is ~28 pounds.

JustJess · 08-09-2006, 05:58 AM

Meh, my best friend growing up had a cocker spaniel. Whiny little scaredy-cat (or is that scaredy-pup?). Guess it depends.

I generally HATE small dogs. They're higher strung and yappy. However, there are two that I've seen several examples of that have been really sweet and cuddly: Pugs, and daschunds (sp?). Pugs are sprightly, energetic, and affectionate. The daschunds I've met are cuddly and sweet, and enjoy their walks. I think the cutest ones are those with the black bodies and black and white spotted legs. SO CUTE! These guys are pure companion pups. And not yappy, if brought up well.

Plus, if you have big dogs already, the puppies will be socialized by them, thus learn to act more like big dogs in small bodies. Always a plus, and a saving grace for the small and yappy.

abaya · 08-09-2006, 06:16 AM

I'd say NO on the Shih-tzu... my advisor has one, and I end up dog-sitting it every single time he goes away for a few days (how I love being a grad student slave). That dog is the most high-maintenance animal I've ever known. My advisor tells me it's because the dog was a lapdog for emperors for thousands of years, so it's bred into him to be treated like a king.

I guess the dog was treated badly in his previous home (he was rescued from the pound), because he's terribly insecure and must be basically touching a human at all times. Even at night, he crawls up on the bed, slowly, until he's practically sitting on my chest or in my ear (where he promptly licks his chops all night, which drives me CRAAAAAZY). He doesn't bark too much, I'll give him that.

So, I recommend NOT getting a shih-tzu, though of course, you could find a perfectly quiet and obedient one. You just never know.

Maybe the best thing to do would find someone who already owns a dog and wants to get rid of it, so that you already know the dog's disposition. People are always moving and wanting to schluff off their animals

so I bet you could find one on Craigslist or something?

Crack · 08-09-2006, 06:20 AM

I have always wanted a Dachshund. They are the coolest dogs ever!
I would name him Weiner-dog. But... alas, no weiner-dog for me

I don't reccomend getting a dog from a Kennel, but here is a site all about the little guys: http://www.thedachshundnetwork.com/

Quote:

Originally Posted by http://www.thedachshundnetwork.com/adopttips.htm

Mini Doxies: Weigh between 6 and 12 lbs.
Tweenie [small standards]: Weigh up to 20 lbs.
Standards [Full Sized]: Can weigh up to 30 lbs.

Doxies are wonderful dogs around children and other Dogs

Quote:

Originally Posted by http://www.petnet.com.au/dogs/D129.html

Whereas the larger Dachshund breeds were utilised primarily as badger dogs, the miniature varieties were specifically bred to go to ground after smaller quarry, such as rabbits.

A spunky little fellow, the Miniature Smooth-Haired Dachshund is bold and brave, defiant and determined. His lack of stature does not stop him being a highly effective watch dog and household protector. Stand-offish with strangers and not given to bestowing his friendship lightly, he prefers to reserve judgment until he knows people better. However once a friend, he is devoted and loyal in the extreme.

Virtually maintenance free, the Miniature Smooth-Haired Dachshund has a coat which polishes like antique furniture with just the wipe of a sponge. His sleek, odourless coat is impervious to rain and mud. He needs exercise in order to maintain his trim physique, bearing in mind that he is supposed to be a fit, active little sporting dog. However, like all Dachshunds, he should avoid rough games, jumping down from furniture or in and out of cars, for fear of possible back injuries.

Lively, confident, with a dominant personality and a positive air of self-importance the Miniature Smooth-Haired Dachshund makes an intelligent and affectionate pet for adults and gentle children.

I want one! Such an awesome indoor pet!

shoegirl · 08-09-2006, 06:32 AM

My vote is for a beagle! They're so darn cute and lovable. Plus, in my experience with them, I've never come across one that barked a whole lot and they're always good tempered.

Crack · 08-09-2006, 06:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crack

Lively, confident, with a dominant personality and a positive air of self-importance

Just like me! hehe

lurkette · 08-09-2006, 08:06 AM

http://www.selectsmart.com/dog/

That'll help narrow things down.

IMHO, you'd be best off going with a well-socialized rescue/shelter dog whose temperament is well established, rather than going with a particular breed.

If, however, you're looking for a pure-bred or dominant breed...

Shelties are barkers. BIG barkers. Bark bark bark bark bark.

You might look at basenjis - I haven't heard anyone mention them. They are rather sweet - no barking, and SUPER smart, but those smarts can get them into mischief.

Whippets are also sweet, although a little timid.

Remember that calm and quiet are largely a factor of having a dominant owner who doesn't let the dog think it's in charge. If the dog doesn't know that you are the alpha, and are in charge of protecting the pack, they're going to do it for you, which means barking and being neurotic and possibly aggressive. A lot of people neglect this with smaller dogs, treating them like toys rather than like canines - they're still pack animals and still ruled by doggie evolutionary forces. You still have to be firm and in charge with them.

Good luck!

Brewmaniac · 08-09-2006, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lurkette

Remember that calm and quiet are largely a factor of having a dominant owner who doesn't let the dog think it's in charge. If the dog doesn't know that you are the alpha, and are in charge of protecting the pack, they're going to do it for you, which means barking and being neurotic and possibly aggressive. A lot of people neglect this with smaller dogs, treating them like toys rather than like canines - they're still pack animals and still ruled by doggie evolutionary forces. You still have to be firm and in charge with them.

Good luck!

You've been watching The Dog Wisperer, haven't you?

Elphaba · 08-09-2006, 12:55 PM

This is all great feedback. You have given me a lot to consider.

Thanks, everyone.

Rodney · 08-09-2006, 05:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Elphaba

Rodney, was he patient with babies? I'm really starting to like the Sheltie.

Weren't any babies around. But he was pretty patient with everybody. A truly friendly dog, and easy to psych. Say "Bad Dog," and he'd fold his ears and creep back to his box.

He was a Sheltie/Corgi mix, to be precise. Short. Low to the ground. Solid

maleficent · 08-09-2006, 06:00 PM

Elph, you currently own two dogs that many people, including myself woudl say you were insane to have around a grandbaby... gus and rottie are very docile not because the breed makes them that way -- rottweillers are a tad on the badass side... they are that way because of how they were trained to be...

any new dog you get would also be trained...

some dogs I think are naturally obnoxious, but they're pretty rare...

meet a bunch of dogs and see which one likes you best

lurkette · 08-10-2006, 07:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brewmaniac

You've been watching The Dog Wisperer, haven't you?

No, I'm just a fan of behaviorist training for dogs. I have several friends who are trainers, and have read a lot of Jean Donaldson.

Elphaba · 08-10-2006, 06:46 PM

Gus will be moving on tomorrow, so there will be a missing part in our family. You have all given me great leads in what to look for in a small, calm, quiet, and good with children Dog.

The advice to rescue a dog strikes home with me. I live in a rural area and I see pups and older dogs dumped every year. You have given me a good idea of what I should be looking for, and something tells me the dog I am looking for will find me, as Rottie did. Of course, Rottie will have last say in this choice.

Sincerely, I thank all of you for your input.

Pen

level five · 08-13-2006, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brewmaniac

You've been watching The Dog Wisperer, haven't you?

ceasar is great with the dogs!

toy or mini poodles are great smaller dogs. toys go around 6-10 lbs while the minis can get in the upper teens to low 20s. they are smart (second only to border collies), don't shed and are easily trained. plus they love poeple and other dogs. we have two toys and their best frined is the chocolate lab next door. it's wild to watch the three of them run and play together. and my oldest is a pet therapy dog and loves to hang out with kids in a hospital - or anywhere.

thingstodo · 08-13-2006, 10:29 AM

I second the poodle vote. I've had them for years and they're awesome pets!

genuinegirly · 08-13-2006, 01:21 PM

My favorite doggie to pet sit for is a Miniature Schnauzer.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureschnauzer.htm

photo from: http://www.champdogs.co.uk/guided/al...schnauzer.html

They are small, loving dogs, but not as boring as a beagle. The one that I know and love is about 15-20 lbs. Perky, but not loud, easy to pick up and wonderfully cuddly. They do require a considerable amount of brushing, and they're not a good breed to leave at home alone all day. On the flip side, they are wonderful companions and obedient. If you're the sort that loves cuddly companionship from a pup, you may be picking them up a lot since they're just a little too small to hop onto a couch or into bed without assistance.

Elphaba · 08-13-2006, 02:02 PM

I also found this breed on a list that are good with kids. Thanks gg.

KungFuGuy · 08-15-2006, 04:57 PM

english bulldogs are usually pretty friendly and low key. the breed is prone to health problems, particularly with snoring and stuff.

boston terriers are insanely energetic.

in my general experiance, most dogs only get calmer when they get older. I'm not sure there's one particular breed out there that has a calm trait just wired in.

08-08-2006, 01:48 PM	#1 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	A Small, Calm Dog? Hubby and I are investigating dog breeds that weigh between 20 and 30 pounds, and have a calm disposition. (We have always preferred the large and giant breeds, but we are no longer able to lift them when they are sick or injured.) There are numerous small dogs that are appealing, but I have yet to find one that isn't hyperactive or in need of constant attention. I remember a couple of prior topics concerning breed characteristics, but can't seem to find them now. So TFPers...any suggestions based upon your experience with a breed that is both small and calm? Thanks! PS: It sure would be nice to have pet topics all in one place.

08-08-2006, 01:54 PM	#2 (permalink)
Gatorade Frost Rookie	Top Dog Breeds for Seniors I feel so malicious posting that... __________________ I got in a fight one time with a really big guy, and he said, "I'm going to mop the floor with your face." I said, "You'll be sorry." He said, "Oh, yeah? Why?" I said, "Well, you won't be able to get into the corners very well." Emo Philips

08-08-2006, 02:11 PM	#3 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	glares at the young whippersnapper... Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big. Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day. Bulldogs ugly as sin, but loyal, patient and very sweet low mainteance dogs. my brother has one.. somedays betty pretends she's stuffed and doesnt move.. but will go for walks when asked... is social... Wil put up with abuse by children and well the downside is they snore like fred flinstone... I'm very partial to that exotic breed of dog known as the MUTT... that comes from the Humane society and will be grateful to you forever for saving it from death row. __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

08-08-2006, 02:47 PM	#7 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	I don't remember the pure bred greyhound that I met as being that big... Tall and slender... but a great disposition.. and the owner of the dog was a major yutz - so the sweet temperedness of the dog came from within... they are smart. The only real problem with beagles I think, is that they can develop weight problems... and that makes for an unhappy doggy but if it's figure is watched.. tehy are fairly low key.. __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

08-08-2006, 03:40 PM	#12 (permalink)
Toaster126 Extreme moderation Location: Kansas City, yo.	Beagles are famous for barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking and barking. I think you get what I'm trying to say. __________________ "The question isn't who is going to let me, it's who is going to stop me." (Ayn Rand) "The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers." (M. Scott Peck)

08-08-2006, 03:13 PM	#9 (permalink)
Nikki ~~~~~~~ Location: Charleston, SC	Beagles have very sweet dispositions and are rather bumps on logs.... and don't get all that big. Greyhounds are also very sweet tempered dogs (especially if you can get a rescue dog or a retired racer) they like to run really fast for short bursts, but then sleep the rest of the day. Bulldogs ugly as sin, but loyal, patient and very sweet low mainteance dogs. my brother has one.. somedays betty pretends she's stuffed and doesnt move.. but will go for walks when asked... is social... Wil put up with abuse by children and well the downside is they snore like fred flinstone... [/QUOTE] The only breed I agree with here is the beagle. While Greyhounds are calm, they are not small. Also BullDogs can be very wild and have numerous health problems. I hate working with them when they come into my clinic. I am trying hard to think of a small calm dog and the closest thing I can come up with is maybe a Shi-tzu or a Sheltie. The thing about finding a calm dog is that EVERY dog is different. It's hard to say really that one breed is more calm then the other. I would recommend going to the shelter and picking one based on the behavior you witness. After all mix breed dogs are known to have fewer health problems.

08-08-2006, 03:35 PM	#11 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	Thanks, Will. I should have remembered the Snoopy Dance.

08-08-2006, 03:47 PM	#13 (permalink)
Seaver Junkie Location: Fort Worth, TX	A calm dog? Any small dog with owners who can control it. Basically what it comes down to is small dogs are allowed to get away with things large dogs never would be able to. Therefore they're used to barking, being aggressive, etc and it's acceptable. Treat small dogs the same as large ones and they'll be calm and friendly.

08-08-2006, 03:55 PM	#14 (permalink)
Gatorade Frost Rookie	Yeah - I got that link from googling "Small calm dog" and voila... Beagles are energetic barky dogs. They're sweet, but a bit of a pain in the ass sometimes. __________________ I got in a fight one time with a really big guy, and he said, "I'm going to mop the floor with your face." I said, "You'll be sorry." He said, "Oh, yeah? Why?" I said, "Well, you won't be able to get into the corners very well." Emo Philips

08-08-2006, 06:22 PM	#15 (permalink)
paddyjoe through charlatans phone Location: Northcoast	Elphaba, I know one of these dogs: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/englishspringerspaniel.htm and can vouch for what a sweet, good natured pooch he is. I think he may be a bit over 30 pounds, but probably not by much.

08-08-2006, 09:02 PM	#17 (permalink)
Rodney Observant Ruminant Location: Rich Wannabe Hippie Town	My parents had a sheltie mix. He was energetic but not loud. He was also very socialized, and basically a sweet little guy. He liked being around people, but didn't necessarily need their undivided attention.

08-08-2006, 09:04 PM	#18 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	Rodney, was he patient with babies? I'm really starting to like the Sheltie.

08-08-2006, 11:12 PM	#19 (permalink)
qtpye4u84 Flavor+noodles Location: oregon	I have a Teacup Chihuahua he is so cute and small and he doesnt bark hardly at all, even if ppl come over to the house. hes so calm and quite but they cost alot, my friend sold him to me for only $100 better then the pet store they are like $500 there. I also have a pomeranian but man does he bark his head off dont get one of those. I have a friend with a fox poo they are pretty calm. __________________ The QTpie

08-09-2006, 02:14 AM	#20 (permalink)
Brewmaniac Searching for the perfect brew!	A calm quiet little dog, unless old, I'd try stuffed first. Big dog or no dog for me. __________________ "That's a joke... I say, that's a joke, son" Last edited by Brewmaniac; 08-09-2006 at 02:16 AM..

08-09-2006, 03:08 AM	#21 (permalink)
ryfo Psycho Location: melbourne australia	cavilier king charles spaniel are well known for their calm disposition and are quite small and cute. They are also cuddle fiends.

08-09-2006, 04:59 AM	#22 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	Cavaliers are sweet... but they're kinda barbie dogs... they have accessories and you have to pack for them if you go anywhere I'd have a tough time seeing you go from two rottweilers to a cavalier... __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

08-09-2006, 05:16 AM	#23 (permalink)
amonkie Drifting Administrator Location: Windy City	The only cavaliers I've known have been skittish and barkers - there goes the quiet. I had a cocker spaniel for 10 years, and she was ~30 pounds. She did not bark unless someone was at the door, and loved nothing better than to follow you around and lay on your feet. However, the other 5 cockers I have had ranged from the one above to never ending ball fetching machine. It all goes back to the individual dog. Size wise, cocker spaniels are near the higher end of your weight requirements if kept in shape. I have one right now that is ~15 pounds and another that is ~28 pounds. __________________ Calling from deep in the heart, from where the eyes can't see and the ears can't hear, from where the mountain trails end and only love can go... ~~~ Three Rivers Hare Krishna

08-09-2006, 05:58 AM	#24 (permalink)
JustJess Unencapsulated Location: Kittyville	Meh, my best friend growing up had a cocker spaniel. Whiny little scaredy-cat (or is that scaredy-pup?). Guess it depends. I generally HATE small dogs. They're higher strung and yappy. However, there are two that I've seen several examples of that have been really sweet and cuddly: Pugs, and daschunds (sp?). Pugs are sprightly, energetic, and affectionate. The daschunds I've met are cuddly and sweet, and enjoy their walks. I think the cutest ones are those with the black bodies and black and white spotted legs. SO CUTE! These guys are pure companion pups. And not yappy, if brought up well. Plus, if you have big dogs already, the puppies will be socialized by them, thus learn to act more like big dogs in small bodies. Always a plus, and a saving grace for the small and yappy. __________________ My heart knows me better than I know myself, so I'm gonna let it do all the talkin'.

08-09-2006, 06:16 AM	#25 (permalink)
abaya Location: Iceland	I'd say NO on the Shih-tzu... my advisor has one, and I end up dog-sitting it every single time he goes away for a few days (how I love being a grad student slave). That dog is the most high-maintenance animal I've ever known. My advisor tells me it's because the dog was a lapdog for emperors for thousands of years, so it's bred into him to be treated like a king. I guess the dog was treated badly in his previous home (he was rescued from the pound), because he's terribly insecure and must be basically touching a human at all times. Even at night, he crawls up on the bed, slowly, until he's practically sitting on my chest or in my ear (where he promptly licks his chops all night, which drives me CRAAAAAZY). He doesn't bark too much, I'll give him that. So, I recommend NOT getting a shih-tzu, though of course, you could find a perfectly quiet and obedient one. You just never know. Maybe the best thing to do would find someone who already owns a dog and wants to get rid of it, so that you already know the dog's disposition. People are always moving and wanting to schluff off their animals so I bet you could find one on Craigslist or something? __________________ And think not you can direct the course of Love; for Love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course. --Khalil Gibran

08-09-2006, 06:32 AM	#27 (permalink)
shoegirl Addict Location: Ohio	My vote is for a beagle! They're so darn cute and lovable. Plus, in my experience with them, I've never come across one that barked a whole lot and they're always good tempered.

08-09-2006, 08:06 AM	#29 (permalink)
lurkette My future is coming on Moderator Emeritus Location: east of the sun and west of the moon	http://www.selectsmart.com/dog/ That'll help narrow things down. IMHO, you'd be best off going with a well-socialized rescue/shelter dog whose temperament is well established, rather than going with a particular breed. If, however, you're looking for a pure-bred or dominant breed... Shelties are barkers. BIG barkers. Bark bark bark bark bark. You might look at basenjis - I haven't heard anyone mention them. They are rather sweet - no barking, and SUPER smart, but those smarts can get them into mischief. Whippets are also sweet, although a little timid. Remember that calm and quiet are largely a factor of having a dominant owner who doesn't let the dog think it's in charge. If the dog doesn't know that you are the alpha, and are in charge of protecting the pack, they're going to do it for you, which means barking and being neurotic and possibly aggressive. A lot of people neglect this with smaller dogs, treating them like toys rather than like canines - they're still pack animals and still ruled by doggie evolutionary forces. You still have to be firm and in charge with them. Good luck! __________________ "If ten million people believe a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing." - Anatole France

08-09-2006, 12:55 PM	#31 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	This is all great feedback. You have given me a lot to consider. Thanks, everyone.

08-09-2006, 06:00 PM	#33 (permalink)
maleficent Junkie Moderator Emeritus Location: Chicago	Elph, you currently own two dogs that many people, including myself woudl say you were insane to have around a grandbaby... gus and rottie are very docile not because the breed makes them that way -- rottweillers are a tad on the badass side... they are that way because of how they were trained to be... any new dog you get would also be trained... some dogs I think are naturally obnoxious, but they're pretty rare... meet a bunch of dogs and see which one likes you best __________________ Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less.

08-10-2006, 06:46 PM	#35 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	Gus will be moving on tomorrow, so there will be a missing part in our family. You have all given me great leads in what to look for in a small, calm, quiet, and good with children Dog. The advice to rescue a dog strikes home with me. I live in a rural area and I see pups and older dogs dumped every year. You have given me a good idea of what I should be looking for, and something tells me the dog I am looking for will find me, as Rottie did. Of course, Rottie will have last say in this choice. Sincerely, I thank all of you for your input. Pen

08-13-2006, 10:29 AM	#37 (permalink)
thingstodo A Storm Is Coming Location: The Great White North	I second the poodle vote. I've had them for years and they're awesome pets! __________________ If you're wringing your hands you can't roll up your shirt sleeves. Stangers have the best candy.

08-13-2006, 01:21 PM	#38 (permalink)
genuinegirly Eat your vegetables Super Moderator Location: Arabidopsis-ville	My favorite doggie to pet sit for is a Miniature Schnauzer. http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/miniatureschnauzer.htm photo from: http://www.champdogs.co.uk/guided/al...schnauzer.html They are small, loving dogs, but not as boring as a beagle. The one that I know and love is about 15-20 lbs. Perky, but not loud, easy to pick up and wonderfully cuddly. They do require a considerable amount of brushing, and they're not a good breed to leave at home alone all day. On the flip side, they are wonderful companions and obedient. If you're the sort that loves cuddly companionship from a pup, you may be picking them up a lot since they're just a little too small to hop onto a couch or into bed without assistance. __________________ "Sometimes I have to remember that things are brought to me for a reason, either for my own lessons or for the benefit of others." Cynthetiq "violence is no more or less real than non-violence." roachboy Last edited by genuinegirly; 08-13-2006 at 01:24 PM.. Reason: Because I like to edit.

08-13-2006, 02:02 PM	#39 (permalink)
Elphaba Deja Moo Location: Olympic Peninsula, WA	I also found this breed on a list that are good with kids. Thanks gg.

08-15-2006, 04:57 PM	#40 (permalink)
KungFuGuy Insane	english bulldogs are usually pretty friendly and low key. the breed is prone to health problems, particularly with snoring and stuff. boston terriers are insanely energetic. in my general experiance, most dogs only get calmer when they get older. I'm not sure there's one particular breed out there that has a calm trait just wired in.