I am going to adopt a small dog. I would like a small dog that isn't too hyper and doesn't bark alot. Any breed recommendations (mutt mixes ok)?

Total dog person here...

Ironically, the smaller breeds actually tend to be some of the loudest and fussiest. Dachshunds have the sweetest eyes, but they can also tend to get a bit excited and nippy, so like with any dog, you have to be sure they're well-trained. Chihuahuas are probably the feistiest, noisiest dogs I've ever met, and they tend to develop dementia and bite in old age. Beagles are also noisy and need A LOT of exercise.

If you would be open to a more medium-sized dog, greyhounds have a reputation as some of the calmest. Yes, they race them, but they don't necessarily need to be athletic and can sometimes even run a bit on the lazy side. Whippets are also pretty calm, though they tend to naturally be more active than greyhounds.

If you're AT ALL open to a larger dog, I have known Portugese Water Dogs to be extremely gentle and quiet. Bullmastiffs are supposed to be gentle, as well, though I don't have as much experience with them. Though some people are genuinely uncomfortable with some of the largest breeds, Saint Bernards and Great Danes tend to be gentle giants.

Mutts tend to be healthier (and frequently calmer) than other dogs, so I would suggest going that route if you can. Under ideal circumstances, you would probably like to find a mix of two dogs known to be very calm. Just being a mutt will not necessarily cancel out the tendencies of a larger and/or more hyper breed. The offspring will usually fall somewhere between the two temperaments, so ideally, if you get a mutt, still take both breeds into consideration. If you can meet and get to know the dog first, then so much the better. Some people actually never even get dogs without meeting their biological parents, though that's not always possible, either.

The American Kennel Club actually has a breed selector here [www.akc.org] ...you might want to try that out. If you find a breed in which you're interested, do some heavy reading on how to care for it, and if you plan to go through a shelter or dog rescue, you might want to ask them for suggestions. Different breeds are more prone to different behaviors, grooming/feeding/exercise needs, or health issues, so it is good to know these things in advance.

If you have any other pets or have children living with you, you should try to find out which breeds do the best around them. Some tend to really prefer people company to animals, dogs to non-dogs, non-dogs to other dogs, adults over children, children over adults, or vice versa. Some do better with multiple humans in the same home, while others are much more comfortable with just one or two.

I would also suggest going with a rescue dog, if you can....people who rescue dogs will generally be VERY open about a dog's personality, they will really take the time to get to know you and suggest the best possible options, and there are exceptions to the rule within any breed. Also, if you're really-super-concerned about noise and hyperactivity, I would suggest adopting a dog who is 3-5 years old or older. 6 to 7 years corresponds to middle age in most dogs, so they have typically really started to calm down by then. After their first year, they WILL start to get calmer, but you'll still be seeing close to puppy-level energy for at least a few more years.

If you already have some breeds in which you're interested, you might want to list them. It might be easier for other people to chime in with suggestions if they know in advance which breeds to which you might already be gravitating. Getting a dog is a huge commitment, though, so it pays to be cautious. It's good that you're asking around.

Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 11/04/2015 10:54AM by OceanGirl.

There are some exceptions to everything. But in general as stated above smaller dogs are the loudest usually though I do have a chihuahua and everyone is always shocked at just how chill he is. Rescue dogs are definitely the way to go. Visit the rescues and shelters and see what is there. My dog picked me and I couldn't have been happier. I went in with the intention to get a medium sized dog.

I rescued a collie / australian shepherd mix 4 years ago. She's a sweet and smart dog, though a little loud at times when she feels her territory is invaded (which includes people outside the door).

On the other hand, as mentioned above, a retired rescue greyhound may be the way to go. Very calm, and actually yes on the lazy side, especially when they are worn out from running in their past. They don't need tons of activity really, as opposed to what it may seem.

But for me the biggest piece of advice is: Rescue a dog, don't buy a dog.

After you've decided on your breed or breeds, use AdoptaPet.com and PetFinder.com. You can input your preferences (age, sex, breed or breeds, your location and how far you are willing to travel) and they will email you whenever a dog matching your requirements is at a shelter or foster home in your area. If you see one you're interested in, you go meet the dog "in person". It's a free service. Regarding breed, if you specify "basset hound" (for example), you will get basset hounds but also mutts with a preponderance of basset hound.

Speaking of mutt vs purebred, let me just say I've had much better luck on health with the mutts. I'll always go with the mutts.

It may take awhile to find the dog that's right for you, but it's worth the wait. You are getting a new member of the family who will be with you for many years, so hold out for an excellent match.

PLEASE ADOPT A RESCUE!!!!! Check out the shelters near you and online. When you see them a few will probably catch your eye and heart. You need to read about breeds.. You should consider your home and what facilities you have to offer. Can you put up with shedding or look for a short hair breed? Will you wish to maintain grooming for fussy breeds? Will you have to time to give the walks and exercise to an active, energetic breed. Consider the dog's natural tendency is for socialization. Do you want to handle the energy of an active dog or prefer a dog with lower energy level. If you don't have a place to let a larger or energetic breed get enough exercise you might consider a more appropriate breed with less energy. Match your own energy level of your household with the breed. When you see a breed you like, do research and learn what instinctual behavior and needs the dog has. Remember that the energy level you see at a kennel may not be what the breed or specific dog will demonstrate when you get him home. Take the dog for a long walk and also perhaps discuss the possibility of a trial period. This is not to say you can treat like a dress you wish to take home to try on and return if you don't like the way it looks and you return it and try again. You have a lot to learn about making the adjustment as you take the animal into your home so that you get off to a good start and you understand when to give discipline and when to give attention and love.
Start watching Cesar Milan on Nat Geo and look online for information. Read recommendations for what to consider as you make your selection.

BTW...already posted but a Basenji does not have the ability to make the sound we refer to as bark.
Also, you said small breed. I forgot to mention to google "small dog syndrome."

Definitely get a rescue, whatever else you do. They never forget what you have done for them and remain loyal and loving as long as you own them. I have a small, very yappy, adorable chihuahua-Pomeranian mix. She barks to protect us, and we can't stop her no matter what we have tried in the way of training. Our other dog is a Yorkie-poo, a sweet, small dog that looks mostly poodle. She isn't nearly as noisy as her adoptive sister, but can get very bossy sometimes and barks at us when she wants food, water, or to be taken to the dog park. Both dogs are very smart. We love them dearly and call them our fur babies. Go to a pound or shelter, get to know the dog that appeals to you, and give dog ownership your best shot. My husband and I have owned six dogs since we've been married, and had to euthanize three. That part is heart-breaking, but we owned those dogs for 15 wonderful years apiece. Go for it. You won't be sorry, I promise.

Get a Rescue!
Avoid Beagles (or Bugles as many people call them for good reason! )
I like the adage about having a dog-
Remember - they may only be in your life for a short time.But you'll be in theirs for the whole time.

I rescued a rat terrier/chihuahua mix. Google "Ratcha" and look at those little faces. They are smart as a whip and totally devoted to their family. They have the cutest personalities and are good around children and cats. When you get a dog from a shelter or a rescue the dog is really appreciative of it's home.

What do you know about Whippets and Whippet mixes?

@emm2131 wrote:

Take the dog for a long walk and also perhaps discuss the possibility of a trial period.

If you take the dog for a trial period there is a very strong chance that you will keep the dog. In sales that is called "the puppy dog close". I also recommend a rescue dog. We have had 4 rescue dogs and still have 2.

@KathyC: Volunteering to be a foster parent allows you to "test drive" dogs, so to speak and you can usually specify size. (We did, after the first one.) I'm excited for you! Please keep us posted!

(heart)

@dkpskipper wrote:

Get a Rescue!
Avoid Beagles (or Bugles as many people call them for good reason! )
I like the adage about having a dog-
Remember - they may only be in your life for a short time.But you'll be in theirs for the whole time.

Why avoid beagles? My first two dogs were rescued beagles. One of the was the sweetest dog ever. The other one was a little naughtier, but still a good dog. They loved my children and to date my oldest daughter still cries when she remembers them... All rescue dogs come with a baggage, but most of them can be educated.

When rescuing a dog, ask for some background and habits just to be sure you'll be able to meet the needs of both the dog and yourself so it doesn't become a burden on you. I'm sure there's always a right match for every dog out there.

Did your Beagles bugle often?

All dogs have characteristics as well as their own personalities. I only recommend rescue dogs. They sometimes let you have them for a "test drive".

@KathyC wrote:

Did your Beagles bugle often?

All the time!! And yes that could be annoying at times (specially when I lived in an apartment building)... But they were still so lovable...

Yes, please rescue. Everyone has some wonderful advice here. The only thing I would add is since you want a dog who is more on the calm/quiet side, avoid terriers!

I have two rescued terriers (a Jack Russell and a Ratshi (Rat Terrier/Shih Tzu mix) who are the best dogs I've ever had. I love them so much it hurts. But there is a reason I call them my little terrier-ists. They are horrid little beasts who are always up to mischief. I'm hopeless at stopping them, because when one of them does something naughty like stealing my panties out of the laundry, running out the pet door and parading them around the front yard for all to see, I can't stop laughing long enough to yell at him! They bark at leaves, talk back to me, make their own "fun" when they're bored, and generally terrier-ize the household.

I have evidence that this one ate my family!!!

I absolutely adore the spoiled little brats.

@KathyC: Excited for you and anxious to hear! Any update?

(heart)

Update: We had to put our cat down (the lovely Madison) two weeks ago. She came from a rescue shelter and graced our household for over 18 years. Our hearts are still hurting but we are going to move forward. Yesterday we watched the National Dog Show with a great deal of curiosity and enjoyment, so that's a step in the right direction. Every contribution to this thread educates us and nudges us in the right direction. Thank you so.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/28/2015 03:22AM by KathyC.

Thanks for sharing informative views. I have a pet Pomeranian white dog. but little worried about diet could share some tips too.

Welcome Reenamathur. Check out dogfoodadvisor.com. It is very informative.

Shitzu.
Those dogs are "chill."

All of my pets are rescues or ferals that adapted to home life. I love them dearly.

That being said they do take work. I had to put my oldest dog down a few months back. She was a Rotti mix with the sweetest personality until it wasn't. She wasn't ill, but she started biting, snapping and growling basically because of old age. I was raised with guard dog breeds and it's just better to cut the cord than incur a lawsuit. Her personality changed overnight. I had no problems allowing this dog around children of any age.
My other dog is a Chi/Terrier mix. He is the smartest dog I've ever owned. He was also the most damaged personality wise. It took 2 solid years of solid positive reinforcement to make him a great guy. He still hates men, because of his first year of life. I still have to make sure no one attempts to pick him up (he's not thrilled if I pick him up). All that being said, he makes me smile everyday. He taught himself to play. He has a bad habit of barking when he wants his way. I call it "What?, Timmy fell down the well?". He's a yapper outside, especially when he sees buzzards.

I've had him for 7 years. The first 2, all I said almost every day was 'what was I thinking?'.

Oh I mentioned earlier I was brought up with guard dogs. I didn't mention they were all the military/k 9 trained kids. My little Chi/terror is the best guard dog I've ever owned. Men at least 6'5" have been known to take a single jump to get on their tailgates when my guy is letting them know who's the boss.

I whole heartily recommend going to a shelter for a rescue. Just know that you
may be in for a lot of work to undo the damage from the previous owner.

@OceanGirl wrote:

If you're AT ALL open to a larger dog, I have known Portugese Water Dogs to be extremely gentle and quiet.

Really? One of my best friends had 2 (1 passed away) and they were a MESS! Plus they needed tons of exercise. On top of that I'm fairly certain the chances of finding one that is adoptable are slim to none considering they normally run ~$2k.

@KathyC wrote:

I am going to adopt a small dog. I would like a small dog that isn't too hyper and doesn't bark alot. Any breed recommendations (mutt mixes ok?]

I would say that to a great extent, a dog is a product of its environment, as much or more, than its breed.

Terriers - Yorkies. Carins and Pits are small to mid-size. I have known, and fostered some, including mixed breeds. They have been rescued, are loving, and rank an 8 out of 10 on the calm scale. I had a full-bred pit bull. He was rescued, after being taken from his owner for fighting him. It took some time with him. He cowered and was scared, but never showed aggression. He would not bark unless I told him to speak. Knowing pit's reputation, we watched him like a hawk. He was loving, appreciative, and truly docile til the day he died.

I also had a 10 pound poodle. High strung and a one-person dog.

Had a small sheltie. That was one sweet doggie. Quiet. Obedient (for the most part). Loved everyone, except one guy. I shared that opinion.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/16/2015 03:56AM by Mert.