Friday, May 21, 2010

What kind of dog do you suggest.?

My wife and I have told our 6 year old and 9 year old that we would get a dog this spring. We're going to rescue a dog from an area shelter (it just seems like the right thing to do) I'm think of a Jack Russell, I want a smaller dog with lots of energy. (we're an active outdoor family). Any suggestions about what kind of dog to adopt, or negative things to say about the Jack Russell.
Answers:
While Jack Russells are energetic and would be good for your active outdoor lifestyle, I think you might find that they have a hard time settling down - they want to play, bounce and go ALL THE TIME! This may be just what you want.
JR"s are like the energizer bunny. If that fits your life style then go for it.
If your kids can handle all of the energy, maybe some roughness and a little barking, then go for it! Every dog breed has a negative side, but we learn to deal with them.

Jack russells are awesome. I don't have one, but they play with my 50 pound dog like they are bigger then him lol.
If you want a small and active dog, get a pomeranian. My pomeranian loves being outdoor and is great around my younger cousins. Jack Russell is also a good idea, but pomeranians are more energetic and cuter (in my opinion)
i suggest a cocker spanniel. youll never get tired of them.
My bassett hound/springer spaniel mix is a small dog but full of energy. But, dont depend on picking out a breed. When you go to the shelter, and if you see a dog you like.ask them to let you spend time with the dog. It's all about the personality of the dog...not necessarily the breed.
Bulldog.

Thos are so cute and fun to have.

They make good cuddling partners. ^^
Jack Russels are great dogs. But since you are going to a shelter I say go in with an open mind and look at and let the kids play with all the small dogs they have to offer.sometimes a mutt will steal your heart and they need homes too. Good luck and best wishes.
It sounds like you already know WHY there are so many Jacks in rescue. They are high energy even in old age. Many people wish a more mellow dog.
Another good dog for kids that ends up in rescue quite a lot are the "large black dogs", black labs or some mix thereof. For some reason, they are the most passed over dogs. The lab breeds (including black, yellow, chocolate and golden retrievers) make excellent family pets. They're loyal, devoted to children and have high energy levels.
If you're set on a smaller dog, since you know the pitfall (and greatest treasure) of the JRT, then you'll be all set.
The bad thing about a Jack Russel Terrier is that they tend to fall in love with one member of the family and are completely loyal to that person. They also some times bite. They are not patient dogs so if you have young kids you might want to th ink about it. What ever you get from the shelter will be a mix. (People with pure breeds don't take them to the shelter) I would let your kids pick out the dog they want. Just make sure that when they walk by or when they stand outside of they cage the dog isn't barking or jumping up. Then hold the dog, if it is calm and lets you turn it over onto its back then it will be a patient and understanding dog. It could take what a child could potentially put it through.
I think you should get a Cavalier king Charles. They are lovely pets that love attention and kids. They would go with you where ever you go. Very good, trusting and obedient dogs.
Jack russels are good. Any kind of terriers are like the best dogs! they are nice, friendly and have lots of energy. (at least most of them) I had a wheaten terrier and he lived for a very, very long time. 13 in people years! I would suggest any kind of terrier. (except bull terrier)
GAHHHHHH! Whatever you do, DON'T GET THE RUSSEL! I had one, and I loved it because it was so friendly and lovable, that is until I learned that it scared the socks off of my little sis, who was also 6. The dog jumped up on her (j russels can jump REALLY high), knocked things out of her hands, and tore up her toys. If you really want a j russel, wait till you're kids are older, and big enough to handle the dog. Plus they were originally bred to go down in animal holes and drag the animals out, so if you have a small animal of any kind, it might be injured.

I would recommend a border collie. They're gentle, lovable, easy to train, intelligent, loyal, and safe. Plus they're really cute, and non-aggressive.
Whatever you do, DON'T get a Border Collie. They are absolutely fantastic dogs but need experienced owners. It sounds as if you haven't had a lot of experience yourself with dogs so do some research as to breed types. Size is obviously an issue, what about coat type, amount of food and exercise?
Dogs are very adaptable creatures and will adapt to your lifetstyle as long as their basic needs are met and you make sure that they are trained and respect the house rules.
Jack Russels are generally pretty low maintenance. Whatever you decide to go for please make sure your children fully understand the do's and dont's of living with a dog.

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