Help with deciding on dog breed for girlfriend.
December 14, 2015 5:25 PM Subscribe
My girlfriend wants a smaller dog to live in our suburban house with fenced in yard, to get along with our 4 year old Border Collie, and we're not sure which breed would work best.
Hey there,
I was hoping you all might be able to help me in choosing a dog breed.
So my girlfriend and I are both in our early thirties and live in a suburban house with a medium-sized fenced-in backyard. I have a 4 year old border collie who is an absolutely amazing creature-- hes incredibly loving, smart, quirky, and self-sufficient (he lets himself in and out of his doggie door and free feeds.)
My girlfriend, however, wants another dog. She thinks it would be great for my current dog, based on his interactions with friends' dogs who have come over for the day. She also just wants a smaller dog. Her criteria: smaller dog (in the 20-40lb range), "cute", and quirky. Her main thoughts thus far have been between a Boston Terrier and a Shiba Inu. We've also received multiple suggestions to look into a miniature Australian Shepherd.
So my question for you is: what breed? What should I be considering re: bostons, shibas, and mini-aussies? Other breeds I should consider?
Thanks guys
/bc
Hey there,
I was hoping you all might be able to help me in choosing a dog breed.
So my girlfriend and I are both in our early thirties and live in a suburban house with a medium-sized fenced-in backyard. I have a 4 year old border collie who is an absolutely amazing creature-- hes incredibly loving, smart, quirky, and self-sufficient (he lets himself in and out of his doggie door and free feeds.)
My girlfriend, however, wants another dog. She thinks it would be great for my current dog, based on his interactions with friends' dogs who have come over for the day. She also just wants a smaller dog. Her criteria: smaller dog (in the 20-40lb range), "cute", and quirky. Her main thoughts thus far have been between a Boston Terrier and a Shiba Inu. We've also received multiple suggestions to look into a miniature Australian Shepherd.
So my question for you is: what breed? What should I be considering re: bostons, shibas, and mini-aussies? Other breeds I should consider?
Thanks guys
/bc
I have had and trained many dog breeds. After reading your Q ,I immediately thought of a Bijon Frise or a Havanese OR a mix of these. Can be trained rather easily, don't constantly bark like other small dogs and are quite smart. I would have no hesitation in recommending these pups.
Your Border Collie , one of the smartest loving breeds, would have no problem with almost any pup, however.
As an aside, all dogs should have a 'job', even if it's just warming your feet or getting the newspaper.
posted by donaken at 5:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
Your Border Collie , one of the smartest loving breeds, would have no problem with almost any pup, however.
As an aside, all dogs should have a 'job', even if it's just warming your feet or getting the newspaper.
posted by donaken at 5:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
If you are seriously considering a Shiba Inu (and you really, really shouldn't be) please read this hilarious site first, written by a Shiba breeder. The Misanthropic Shiba
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: donaken-- the fail her "cute" test
Ruthless bunny-- she wants a puppy. that makes shelter interaction difficult. Can you elaborate on why Shiba Inus are a terrible choice?
posted by quickasfoxes at 5:50 PM on December 14, 2015
Ruthless bunny-- she wants a puppy. that makes shelter interaction difficult. Can you elaborate on why Shiba Inus are a terrible choice?
posted by quickasfoxes at 5:50 PM on December 14, 2015
I have volunteered at an animal rescue so I am obligated to advocate for a mixed breed. Our rescue gets a lot of pit bull mixes which can be wonderful dogs but they might not be cute or small enough for your girlfriend (her loss - great dogs). But they also get a lot of hound, beagle and retriever mixes which are also great dogs.
Also, I'd encourage you to think about why you want a puppy. Is she employed? I have heard from people who have had both puppies and babies that puppies are more work. Plus with a puppy, you have no idea what their personality is going to be like. With a slightly older dog, you know more about what you're getting - their personality type, likes and dislikes, how big it's going to get, among other things.
You could spend a decent amount of money on a puppy who destroys your rugs, shoes and furniture, doesn't stop barking, and is aggressive with people and your current dog. Also, puppies grow up - will your girlfriend still think the dog is cute when it's no longer a puppy? Alternately, you could get a 10 month old dog who is nearly done growing, has an established personality, is already house-broken, and you'll be saving that dog's life, which is an awesome thing to do.
If you're set on getting a dog from a breeder, I understand. There are some breeds that have a special place in my heart. But I've met too many really nice shelter dogs to go that route. And I'm typing this while sitting next to my rescue cat.
posted by kat518 at 6:06 PM on December 14, 2015 [8 favorites]
Also, I'd encourage you to think about why you want a puppy. Is she employed? I have heard from people who have had both puppies and babies that puppies are more work. Plus with a puppy, you have no idea what their personality is going to be like. With a slightly older dog, you know more about what you're getting - their personality type, likes and dislikes, how big it's going to get, among other things.
You could spend a decent amount of money on a puppy who destroys your rugs, shoes and furniture, doesn't stop barking, and is aggressive with people and your current dog. Also, puppies grow up - will your girlfriend still think the dog is cute when it's no longer a puppy? Alternately, you could get a 10 month old dog who is nearly done growing, has an established personality, is already house-broken, and you'll be saving that dog's life, which is an awesome thing to do.
If you're set on getting a dog from a breeder, I understand. There are some breeds that have a special place in my heart. But I've met too many really nice shelter dogs to go that route. And I'm typing this while sitting next to my rescue cat.
posted by kat518 at 6:06 PM on December 14, 2015 [8 favorites]
Shiba Inus are very, very stubborn and difficult to train.
I second the suggestion for a shelter dog. They will have puppies! Check out Petfinder.com I just put my zip code in and searched for puppies and got over 750 hits within 100 miles of me. Given your girlfriend's preferences, you might consider searching for a terrier mix. You'll find a ton of short-haired dogs with a lot of personality. And a shelter dog will be all quirk -- no other dog on earth will be like it.
posted by OrangeDisk at 6:08 PM on December 14, 2015 [9 favorites]
I second the suggestion for a shelter dog. They will have puppies! Check out Petfinder.com I just put my zip code in and searched for puppies and got over 750 hits within 100 miles of me. Given your girlfriend's preferences, you might consider searching for a terrier mix. You'll find a ton of short-haired dogs with a lot of personality. And a shelter dog will be all quirk -- no other dog on earth will be like it.
posted by OrangeDisk at 6:08 PM on December 14, 2015 [9 favorites]
I'd encourage you to check out the FAQ in the blog Ruthless Bunny mentioned. Specifically, a shiba might not be the best choice for you two if you're planning to just let the dog run around in your backyard.
posted by kat518 at 6:25 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
posted by kat518 at 6:25 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
Rescues can be puppies - check out my profile pic for the littermate five week-old puppies I rescued eight years ago! Learned about them through petfinder (all you have to do is set the filter to "baby" for age of dog).
posted by Pax at 6:28 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by Pax at 6:28 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
Unless your girlfriend already knows how to train a dog, I would not get a puppy. It's stressful and difficult to train them the first time.
I would suggest looking at smart breeds; Australian Cattle Dogs, Australian Shepherds, Corgi's, or another BC mix; there are mixes that are a little smaller. The dog needs to be smart enough and sturdy enough to keep up with yours. If there's too big a weight gap, it can be easier for the smaller dog to get hurt, even if it's an accident. Consider getting a female; opposite genders are the least likely to fight.
Take your dog to the shelter or to a rescue, and have him meet a few dogs. There are herd-specific rescues that will know about herding dogs' needs, and may have dogs on the small side, and non-herding dogs.
Rescues/shelters will take a dog back, if it doesn't work out. Most will have resources available like training and behaviorists you can talk to, for help getting the new one settled in, and for any problems in the future.
Please choose a rescue or shelter dog above a breeder dog. There are few good breeders; most breed for money, and the conditions the dogs live in are miserable. Purebred dogs also have far more health problems than mixed breeds. Good breeders will take a dog back, whether it's a week from now or 10 years from now. Good breeders will let you see where the dog lives, and meet them in their home, and will let you meet the parents. Most breeders are not good breeders.
I'm sure you can find a great new friend.
posted by answergrape at 6:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
I would suggest looking at smart breeds; Australian Cattle Dogs, Australian Shepherds, Corgi's, or another BC mix; there are mixes that are a little smaller. The dog needs to be smart enough and sturdy enough to keep up with yours. If there's too big a weight gap, it can be easier for the smaller dog to get hurt, even if it's an accident. Consider getting a female; opposite genders are the least likely to fight.
Take your dog to the shelter or to a rescue, and have him meet a few dogs. There are herd-specific rescues that will know about herding dogs' needs, and may have dogs on the small side, and non-herding dogs.
Rescues/shelters will take a dog back, if it doesn't work out. Most will have resources available like training and behaviorists you can talk to, for help getting the new one settled in, and for any problems in the future.
Please choose a rescue or shelter dog above a breeder dog. There are few good breeders; most breed for money, and the conditions the dogs live in are miserable. Purebred dogs also have far more health problems than mixed breeds. Good breeders will take a dog back, whether it's a week from now or 10 years from now. Good breeders will let you see where the dog lives, and meet them in their home, and will let you meet the parents. Most breeders are not good breeders.
I'm sure you can find a great new friend.
posted by answergrape at 6:36 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
I have a Boston. He's nine months old, and I "inherited" him when my mom passed away a few months ago. He's great. 99% of the time. I had a lot of interaction with him when he was a smaller, younger puppy, but my parents didn't socialize him with as many dogs during that crucial time period as I'd have. *Disclaimer* he's snuggled up with me on the couch as a write this.
They went through a breeder, met the canine parents, and met a few dogs from previous litters, and decided he'd be a good fit. And he is; for me. Not so much for them. He is extremely high energy, as in, he runs a few miles with me every morning before I go to work and then walks another mile and plays fetch with the dog walker later. He never slows down, until about 2030 or so. We walk, a lot, swim, go to doggie daycare, and he visits the fire station with me a lot. He's content by himself, but I think he'd be happier with another dog or kitty, but I don't have the financial resources to care for more than one pet at this time.
He has a dog door, and learned how to use it...as I was installing it. They are pretty darn smart (I've always had hound mixes, so this was a pleasant surprise). He loves to perform and do tricks and learn and play and looooves new people. When my parents brought him home at 8 weeks, I had him house and crate trained in 4 days.
However, with the smarts comes stubbornness, and if he's decided that he knows better than I do, which he frequently does, because he's a puppy, he will be defiant or ignore me. Which usually isn't a problem, unless he's doing something stupid or dangerous, and then I change my tone and he usually snaps to attention. Also, like many terriers, he absolutely CANNOT be off-leash unless he is in a fenced in area; again, coming from docile hound mixes, this was a change.
He is a great snugglebug, and I love him very much and he loves me right back. He likes food, but he likes attention more.
A good quality diet is important - I went grain-free with him to clear up some skin allergies he's had, and it works wonders. That being said, they fart. Constantly. And sometimes issues with the anal glands (let me tell you about disinfecting my leather couch!) and they snore. Loudly. Like, louder than I do.
A Boston puppy is a lot of work. I would suggest a Boston, but I'd suggest one that's closer to 1-3 years old after they've worked some of that energy out. And they live a long time, so you'd still get a lot of time with the dog and it would probably already be fixed and you might meet one that is comfortable around other dogs. I've met a lot of Bostons who do great with other dogs, and some who hate other dogs, and some, like mine, with a Napoleon complex. He seriously decided to bully a fully-grown cane corso at the dog park once and picks fights with German Shepherds.
And be aware of the "Boston Crazies." If you've ever owned a cat, you'll understand. The Boston can be chilling or just playing and then a switch is flipped and they can get overly excited or stimulated and they *have* to have a time out. And they can be nippy and scowl and make "rawr" sounds, but they absolutely need to be removed from the situation until they calm down. I was weirded out the first time, but other Boston owners have assured me that it's a Thing with them.
They're not very vocal unless they want to be, so if you want a quiet dog, they're a good bet. They're also clowns. Winston makes me laugh all the time, and he's become my best friend; we're pretty inseparable at this point.
Good luck!
posted by sara is disenchanted at 6:42 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
They went through a breeder, met the canine parents, and met a few dogs from previous litters, and decided he'd be a good fit. And he is; for me. Not so much for them. He is extremely high energy, as in, he runs a few miles with me every morning before I go to work and then walks another mile and plays fetch with the dog walker later. He never slows down, until about 2030 or so. We walk, a lot, swim, go to doggie daycare, and he visits the fire station with me a lot. He's content by himself, but I think he'd be happier with another dog or kitty, but I don't have the financial resources to care for more than one pet at this time.
He has a dog door, and learned how to use it...as I was installing it. They are pretty darn smart (I've always had hound mixes, so this was a pleasant surprise). He loves to perform and do tricks and learn and play and looooves new people. When my parents brought him home at 8 weeks, I had him house and crate trained in 4 days.
However, with the smarts comes stubbornness, and if he's decided that he knows better than I do, which he frequently does, because he's a puppy, he will be defiant or ignore me. Which usually isn't a problem, unless he's doing something stupid or dangerous, and then I change my tone and he usually snaps to attention. Also, like many terriers, he absolutely CANNOT be off-leash unless he is in a fenced in area; again, coming from docile hound mixes, this was a change.
He is a great snugglebug, and I love him very much and he loves me right back. He likes food, but he likes attention more.
A good quality diet is important - I went grain-free with him to clear up some skin allergies he's had, and it works wonders. That being said, they fart. Constantly. And sometimes issues with the anal glands (let me tell you about disinfecting my leather couch!) and they snore. Loudly. Like, louder than I do.
A Boston puppy is a lot of work. I would suggest a Boston, but I'd suggest one that's closer to 1-3 years old after they've worked some of that energy out. And they live a long time, so you'd still get a lot of time with the dog and it would probably already be fixed and you might meet one that is comfortable around other dogs. I've met a lot of Bostons who do great with other dogs, and some who hate other dogs, and some, like mine, with a Napoleon complex. He seriously decided to bully a fully-grown cane corso at the dog park once and picks fights with German Shepherds.
And be aware of the "Boston Crazies." If you've ever owned a cat, you'll understand. The Boston can be chilling or just playing and then a switch is flipped and they can get overly excited or stimulated and they *have* to have a time out. And they can be nippy and scowl and make "rawr" sounds, but they absolutely need to be removed from the situation until they calm down. I was weirded out the first time, but other Boston owners have assured me that it's a Thing with them.
They're not very vocal unless they want to be, so if you want a quiet dog, they're a good bet. They're also clowns. Winston makes me laugh all the time, and he's become my best friend; we're pretty inseparable at this point.
Good luck!
posted by sara is disenchanted at 6:42 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
If she likes smart dogs Poodles make the list of top ten smart dogs & come in a huge range of sizes, and unlike collies you don't have the shedding problem & are cute as buttons.
If cuteness is a factor then a Shibu Inu is not for you. They look cute because of all the internet memes they are not a "cute" personality kind of dog if that makes sense. They are smart dogs, but unlike say a Collie that lives to please it's owner a Shibu Inu doesn't really care what you want, if your interests accidentally coincide with it's that's all well & good, if not they will take a LOT of regular committed training & even then you'll still have to convince the dog it has a really good reason to want to sit before it will sit. They also aren't always great with other dogs even if well socialized.
When your gf decides on a breed, check out breed specific rescues, they exist for pretty much every breed you can think of, they very often have puppies or young dogs think 6 months - 12month range.
She may want to look into Spaniels. My mother has a Cavelier King Charles Spaniel, & she is the cutest, sweetest most loyal dog around, thick as a brick, but once she gets the hang of a trick she doesn't forget it. She has never met another dog she didn't like, & happily let my terrier half her size be the mastermind. Sometimes 2 smart dogs = more than double the work.
posted by wwax at 6:48 PM on December 14, 2015
If cuteness is a factor then a Shibu Inu is not for you. They look cute because of all the internet memes they are not a "cute" personality kind of dog if that makes sense. They are smart dogs, but unlike say a Collie that lives to please it's owner a Shibu Inu doesn't really care what you want, if your interests accidentally coincide with it's that's all well & good, if not they will take a LOT of regular committed training & even then you'll still have to convince the dog it has a really good reason to want to sit before it will sit. They also aren't always great with other dogs even if well socialized.
When your gf decides on a breed, check out breed specific rescues, they exist for pretty much every breed you can think of, they very often have puppies or young dogs think 6 months - 12month range.
She may want to look into Spaniels. My mother has a Cavelier King Charles Spaniel, & she is the cutest, sweetest most loyal dog around, thick as a brick, but once she gets the hang of a trick she doesn't forget it. She has never met another dog she didn't like, & happily let my terrier half her size be the mastermind. Sometimes 2 smart dogs = more than double the work.
posted by wwax at 6:48 PM on December 14, 2015
Rescues/shelters will take a dog back, if it doesn't work out.
In fact, for my dogs, I signed a contract that I would return them to the rescue if I couldn't keep them for whatever reason - not sure how long that clause extended, e.g. if my toddler-come-lately were allergic or something) and I think the kitties I got from the SPCA in the 90s said the same.
posted by Pax at 7:06 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
In fact, for my dogs, I signed a contract that I would return them to the rescue if I couldn't keep them for whatever reason - not sure how long that clause extended, e.g. if my toddler-come-lately were allergic or something) and I think the kitties I got from the SPCA in the 90s said the same.
posted by Pax at 7:06 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
Not a "what breed to get" but "how to figure out what breed to get" --
Go to dog shows or performance trials (ie agility, obedience, rally) in an hour or two radius of your home. At a conformation trial, just wander around and talk to people showing breeds that seem nice; mostly people will be happy to tell you that their breed isn't for you and maybe think about X. At a performance trial, just watch some of the event and talk to people who have small dogs.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 7:11 PM on December 14, 2015
Go to dog shows or performance trials (ie agility, obedience, rally) in an hour or two radius of your home. At a conformation trial, just wander around and talk to people showing breeds that seem nice; mostly people will be happy to tell you that their breed isn't for you and maybe think about X. At a performance trial, just watch some of the event and talk to people who have small dogs.
posted by ROU_Xenophobe at 7:11 PM on December 14, 2015
A weird trope around "rescuing" dogs has been built up in recent times (I think Facebook memes have contributed to it?) that has turned adopting a dog from the shelter into this ultimate selfless act of kindness. See: people acting like rescue dogs are usually a huge behavioral project, or people calling their dog their "shelter dog" after they've had it for years, and I think it makes people forget that adopting a "gently used" dog was the pretty normal defacto method of acquiring a dog for a very very long time.
I say this only as a means to strongly encourage you to consider adopting a dog, whether it's from a shelter or a reputable rescue. It isn't some higher calling that only people who want to rehabilitate a basketcase should embark upon. Gosh, there are SO many great small-breed dogs in all across the country (especially in the south and LA) that are brought into rescue organizations all over the place. And if you really NEED a puppy (I think they're a little overrated), you'll find them.
posted by cakelite at 7:28 PM on December 14, 2015 [7 favorites]
I say this only as a means to strongly encourage you to consider adopting a dog, whether it's from a shelter or a reputable rescue. It isn't some higher calling that only people who want to rehabilitate a basketcase should embark upon. Gosh, there are SO many great small-breed dogs in all across the country (especially in the south and LA) that are brought into rescue organizations all over the place. And if you really NEED a puppy (I think they're a little overrated), you'll find them.
posted by cakelite at 7:28 PM on December 14, 2015 [7 favorites]
Rescue dogs are the way to go. Please don't buy a puppy or dog when so many good puppies and dogs need homes, and so many are being euthanized due to lack of shelter space. Adopting is good karma -- you're saving a life.
There are many ways to get a good rescue pup:
1. Ask among your friends and co-workers -- find a crazy motivated dog rescue person. Ask that person to help you find the kind of pup you want. They will make it their mission to find you a great pup.
2. Shelters vary in how they operate. Look at their web sites. You want a shelter that has trained staff and volunteers ready to help you find the pup you want.
3. Petfinder.com will provide a list of small rescue organizations in your area. Check these organizations' facebook pages. This is where you will find litters of puppies with their mommas in foster homes, waiting to be adopted. Puppies birthed and raised in foster homes tend to have excellent socialization with other dogs, kids, etc. This is not the case with pet stores, internet sellers, and many for-profit breeders.
4. Make a flyer for yourself about the kind of puppy you want. Stop in at local veterinary offices. Tell the staff you want a puppy. Vets often wind up taking in puppies that aren't working out for their new owners -- often simply because people didn't realize that puppies chew things, cry, and poop in the house.
5. If you are set on a purebred, look into a breed rescue organization. Most breed rescues are all volunteer. They are extremely knowledgable about their breed and will work with you and answer questions after your pup is adopted.
posted by valannc at 7:32 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
There are many ways to get a good rescue pup:
1. Ask among your friends and co-workers -- find a crazy motivated dog rescue person. Ask that person to help you find the kind of pup you want. They will make it their mission to find you a great pup.
2. Shelters vary in how they operate. Look at their web sites. You want a shelter that has trained staff and volunteers ready to help you find the pup you want.
3. Petfinder.com will provide a list of small rescue organizations in your area. Check these organizations' facebook pages. This is where you will find litters of puppies with their mommas in foster homes, waiting to be adopted. Puppies birthed and raised in foster homes tend to have excellent socialization with other dogs, kids, etc. This is not the case with pet stores, internet sellers, and many for-profit breeders.
4. Make a flyer for yourself about the kind of puppy you want. Stop in at local veterinary offices. Tell the staff you want a puppy. Vets often wind up taking in puppies that aren't working out for their new owners -- often simply because people didn't realize that puppies chew things, cry, and poop in the house.
5. If you are set on a purebred, look into a breed rescue organization. Most breed rescues are all volunteer. They are extremely knowledgable about their breed and will work with you and answer questions after your pup is adopted.
posted by valannc at 7:32 PM on December 14, 2015 [3 favorites]
Yes, definitely rescue a dog, and consider an adult rather than a puppy! But if you live in a large enough area that you might have some choice about what type of dog you rescue (whether purebred or mixed), a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be a pup to keep an eye out for. Purebreds tend to have health issues, which is another reason to look for a mutt, but they are very sweet, well-tempered dogs and they also have a reputation as being very comfortable around larger dogs like your collie. They are screamingly cute and definitely quirky-- very people-oriented, very goofy, very fun-- without being finicky or standoffish. Might be a good fit.
posted by WidgetAlley at 7:43 PM on December 14, 2015
posted by WidgetAlley at 7:43 PM on December 14, 2015
Shiba Inu is not the way to go for you. They are stubborn and can be cold & aloof.
My suggestions would be:
German Shepherd mix from a shelter or rescue. These should be available at roughly every shelter or rescue. The mix part of this equation is important. Look for a mix that contains a companion animal like a pug/boston/bulldog. I've got a french bulldog/german shepherd mutant and he is the best dog ever.
A poodle. Standard Poodles (bigger than your gf is hoping for) are smart and make great family pets. There is likely a regional poodle rescue available to you.
Pug or pug mix. If you search petfinder daily you can find a shelter pug. You can also find plenty of pug/boston mixes. The pug part of this equation brings down some of the boston energy. I've got an $83 shelter pug and he is the second best dog, ever.
A mini aussie is going to require a lot of work. They need multiple jobs to be happy.
posted by fluffy battle kitten at 7:51 PM on December 14, 2015 [2 favorites]
My suggestions would be:
German Shepherd mix from a shelter or rescue. These should be available at roughly every shelter or rescue. The mix part of this equation is important. Look for a mix that contains a companion animal like a pug/boston/bulldog. I've got a french bulldog/german shepherd mutant and he is the best dog ever.
A poodle. Standard Poodles (bigger than your gf is hoping for) are smart and make great family pets. There is likely a regional poodle rescue available to you.
Pug or pug mix. If you search petfinder daily you can find a shelter pug. You can also find plenty of pug/boston mixes. The pug part of this equation brings down some of the boston energy. I've got an $83 shelter pug and he is the second best dog, ever.
A mini aussie is going to require a lot of work. They need multiple jobs to be happy.
posted by fluffy battle kitten at 7:51 PM on December 14, 2015 [2 favorites]
If you want Loving, Smart and Quirky you might try a terrier. I recently adopted a rough coat Jack Russell Terrier Mix. They're a lot of fun and mine has made a great companion for my Lab/Aussie mix.
posted by mulcahy at 8:32 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by mulcahy at 8:32 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
There are loads of quizzes that will help you two figure out which breed would make you happy- such as this one: http://www.animalplanet.com/breed-selector/dog-breeds.html
(google for more versions and try varying your priorities to see other options.)
And I hate to sound like everyone else, but Petfinder lets you input breeds (usually to get crosses- but still) as well as your zip code. A little searching there will lead you to discover which rescue groups are active in your area.
posted by TenaciousB at 9:31 PM on December 14, 2015
(google for more versions and try varying your priorities to see other options.)
And I hate to sound like everyone else, but Petfinder lets you input breeds (usually to get crosses- but still) as well as your zip code. A little searching there will lead you to discover which rescue groups are active in your area.
posted by TenaciousB at 9:31 PM on December 14, 2015
Seconding a Jack Russell terrier. They're energetic and smart like your border collie. They're also not an uncommon crossbreed to find in shelters.
posted by irisclara at 10:00 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by irisclara at 10:00 PM on December 14, 2015 [1 favorite]
A sheltie or sheltie mix seems like a good option. They're really cute, smart, and have a lot of energy.
posted by _cave at 4:45 AM on December 15, 2015
posted by _cave at 4:45 AM on December 15, 2015
Every shiba inu I have met has been very well behaved but also not at all interested in people. They act like cats. There's one that went through puppy school with my dog, and never once has it let me pet it. I've seen this dog so many times, but I'm still just not worth its attention. When people here say a shiba inu can be aloof, take them seriously. A lot of people get shiba inus for their looks without realizing that not all dogs have the same personality.
I have a Jack Russell terrier and beagle mix, and she is absolutely the best little dog who ever existed. I agree with others that a terrier mix might be good for you... provided you can give the dog enough activity. Keep in mind that a lot of dog breeds are designed to work, and they don't always do well when they're not given any work to do.
Also, for your girlfriend: the dog you love is always the cutest dog. You don't have to focus so much on getting a cute breed, rather than a sweetie, because you're guaranteed to end up with the cutest.
posted by meese at 6:18 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
I have a Jack Russell terrier and beagle mix, and she is absolutely the best little dog who ever existed. I agree with others that a terrier mix might be good for you... provided you can give the dog enough activity. Keep in mind that a lot of dog breeds are designed to work, and they don't always do well when they're not given any work to do.
Also, for your girlfriend: the dog you love is always the cutest dog. You don't have to focus so much on getting a cute breed, rather than a sweetie, because you're guaranteed to end up with the cutest.
posted by meese at 6:18 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
It breaks my heart that a Bichon/Bichon mix is off the list and for cuteness of all things (seriously, they are adorable cotton balls) but I to want to echo the don't go to a breeder sentiment. There are so many ways to get a puppy and breed specific through a rescue that you should at least consider that.
Based on the types of dogs your girlfriend does consider cute, maybe something with a boxer mix or pug mix. The real key isn't cuteness though, its about finding a personality that fits into your life. How active are you? How much time does she have to train the new dog? How much grooming can you do? (The one pug I know sheds more than every other dog I've ever known combined!) Please consider how this new dog will fit into your life before falling in love with the way a doggie looks.
posted by GilvearSt at 7:14 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
Based on the types of dogs your girlfriend does consider cute, maybe something with a boxer mix or pug mix. The real key isn't cuteness though, its about finding a personality that fits into your life. How active are you? How much time does she have to train the new dog? How much grooming can you do? (The one pug I know sheds more than every other dog I've ever known combined!) Please consider how this new dog will fit into your life before falling in love with the way a doggie looks.
posted by GilvearSt at 7:14 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
Have to add to the pileon about rescues. We ended up with a puppy a couple years ago that some friends found out in the country and BEST dog ever! I live in a rural area and every rescue with a 100 miles has puppies available. Rescues are pretty good at estimating size and often what kind of mix they are.
I could even point you to an Aussie mix that is about 10 months old and looking for a home right now. If i wasn't the meanest mom ever she would be living at my house.
Purebread wise, look at terriers. Westies are awesome spunky little dogs, very cute and a little stubborn but awesome. Don't discount breed rescues. Dogs will probably be a little older but the westie we had years ago was a year old owner surrender when we got her.
posted by domino at 7:38 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
I could even point you to an Aussie mix that is about 10 months old and looking for a home right now. If i wasn't the meanest mom ever she would be living at my house.
Purebread wise, look at terriers. Westies are awesome spunky little dogs, very cute and a little stubborn but awesome. Don't discount breed rescues. Dogs will probably be a little older but the westie we had years ago was a year old owner surrender when we got her.
posted by domino at 7:38 AM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
I would check out the /r/dogs subreddit on reddit. Over there we get this question all the time. You can fill out the /r/dogs breed questionnaire and create a new post with your answers. You will get a lot of people chiming in with excellent suggestions for breeds that suit your preferences and lifestyle.
I would also add that in my experience, people who pick out dogs based primarily on "cuteness" and "quirkiness" are looking for accessories, not companions. So I would encourage your girlfriend to think seriously about how she will feel if her dog (a) has traits that, while quirky, aren't the kind of quirk she likes, (b) gets less cute as it grows up, or (c) develops a skin or other medical condition that makes it less traditionally cute.
posted by schroedingersgirl at 10:14 AM on December 15, 2015 [2 favorites]
I would also add that in my experience, people who pick out dogs based primarily on "cuteness" and "quirkiness" are looking for accessories, not companions. So I would encourage your girlfriend to think seriously about how she will feel if her dog (a) has traits that, while quirky, aren't the kind of quirk she likes, (b) gets less cute as it grows up, or (c) develops a skin or other medical condition that makes it less traditionally cute.
posted by schroedingersgirl at 10:14 AM on December 15, 2015 [2 favorites]
Consider a Border Terrier! From the same region as Border Collies.
They are loving, smart, get along with everyone in my household- other dogs & cats with young children. Not super clingy, very athletic and have different modes.
TV watching companion- check.
Out mountain biking - check.
Waiting at the school with hordes of kids- check.
Our Border will now stand over one of the guinea pigs or the rabbit when they get loose, all though you can tell he would prefer to do other things. They are very smart dogs with adaptable thinking. Maintenance is on the low side.
posted by slothhog at 10:15 PM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
They are loving, smart, get along with everyone in my household- other dogs & cats with young children. Not super clingy, very athletic and have different modes.
TV watching companion- check.
Out mountain biking - check.
Waiting at the school with hordes of kids- check.
Our Border will now stand over one of the guinea pigs or the rabbit when they get loose, all though you can tell he would prefer to do other things. They are very smart dogs with adaptable thinking. Maintenance is on the low side.
posted by slothhog at 10:15 PM on December 15, 2015 [1 favorite]
This thread is closed to new comments.
Rescue is the way to go.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 5:34 PM on December 14, 2015 [24 favorites]