Anyone own at dog?

[yesygerm]

Outside dog.

[cmotherofpirl]

I recommend a short-haired St Bernard. They are excellent with children, can do with a medium-sized city yard, and curl up in the corner to go to sleep. They are not high-strung dogs, and are rather mellow. They can even learn to appreciate cats and ferrets and guinea pigs, but have a habit of stepping [or sitting] on mice.
My children were raised from infancy with a seccession of Sts and you cannot find a better dog for kids. All my kids learned to walk by holding on to whatever they grabbed for balance and it was usually the dog. :
They also make excellent pillows for naptime. Their only bad habit is to insist on carrying their own leash as they graciuously agree to go for a walk [i]with[/i] you.
If you insult them they lay down and refuse to get up til you apologize.
It doesn't occur to them you are their master, its an equal relationship.

Edited July 22, 2005 by cmotherofpirl

[StColette]

Bichon around 11 lbs minimal exercise
Border Terrier 11 lbs minimal exercise
Cairn Terrier 15 lbs regular exercise
Havanese 15 lbs regular exercise
Lakeland Terrier 15 lbs regular exercise
Norfolk Terrier 10 lbs regular exercise
Norwich Terrier 10 lbs regular exercise
American Cocker Spaniel 19 lbs regular exercise
Beagle 26 lbs regular exercise

[StColette]

Cmom is right St. Bernard's might be a big dog but they don't require a lot of exercise and they are wonderful with kids.

Before I was born my parents owned one. My brothers and sis were 4,3, and 2 at the time.

[StColette]

Okay PetPlace listed these as the Top Family Picks

Below is a list of the top 20.

Golden retriever. The golden retreiver is an excellent choice for families that enjoy lots of outdoor activities. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the golden rapidly proved himself as a loyal and devoted family member.

Pembroke Welsh corgi. At about 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh corgi is a popular pet. This stocky short tailed breed needs daily exercise and loves romping with the kids.

West Highland white terrier. This small white terrier is playful and loveable but does require some exercise to keep him happy. The Westie is a good watch dog and faithful friend that needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free.

Irish setter. This beautiful red dog was originally developed to help with hunting but early on, the breed showed his natural aptitude as a companion. Loved by many and always eager to please, the Irish setter is a part of many families.

Schnauzer. The schnauzer is a wonderful family pet. Eager to please and to keep the family safe, this breed usually requires regular grooming and daily exercise. This breed thrives on human companionship and is available in three different sizes.

Labrador retriever. The lab is a popular choice for active families, especially those that enjoy water sports. The labrador seems to have boundless energy to keep up with the kids as well as natural protective instincts. Though originally developed to help hunt birds, the lab is also a loyal and devoted family member.

Poodle. The poodle is an intelligent and friendly dog that craves human companionship. Happiest when allowed to run and play, the poodle is well known for being low shed, and comes in three different sizes to suit any taste.

Bichon frise. This white fluff ball is a happy-go-lucky dog. Faithful and obedient, the bichon is a wonderful addition to any home. The bichon does require regular grooming to keep his coat looking great but loves to investigate and participate in anything.

Airedale. A sturdy dog, the airedale takes his job as a family friend and protector seriously. Willing to join in the fun anytime, the airedale always keeps a watchful eye out for any potential dangers.

Basset hound. With his sad droopy eyes, you may think the basset is a lazy hound. But, as soon as kids are around, this dog will jump right in and keep up with the best of them.

Beagle. The beagle may be an active breed but he fits in well with very active families. Needing a good place to sleep and plenty of games to play, this breed can easily join any family.

Shih tzu. Originally bred as a companion animal for royalty, the shih tzu still enjoys a life a luxury. Not too proud to get down and dirty with the kids, this dog loves nothing better than sharing time with people, even if that means getting dressed up for a tea party.

Boxer. The boxer may look a bit intimidating but he is actually a sweet and friendly dog. A natural guardian, the boxer prefers to spend his time with people than with other canines. Though this breed can do well in quiet homes, he can also thrive in busy active families.

Cairn terrier. Despite their small size, the cairn terrier is a tough little dog. This breed does well in any living environment as long as there are people around. As a terrier, this breed does need exercise and a romp in the park or running with the neighborhood kids suits him just fine.

Collie. Forever connected to "Lassie", the collie is considered by many to be one of the best family pets. Intelligent yet patient, the collie is loved by families all over the world.

Boston terrier. The Boston is a small black and white terrier that loves to make you laugh. After brief periods of activity, the Boston loves to curl up on the sofa while you read a good book. Obedient and loyal, the Boston is a good watch dog and loyal family pet, especially for the not so active families.

Newfoundland. This gentle giant may drool a little too much for some people but has made a wonderful big protective teddy bear for many lucky children. Because of his size, families with very young children may want to wait a few years but those families who enjoy life near water can rest easy with this dog near by.

Pomeranian. This little fluffball looks just like a tiny fox. Weighing around 5 pounds, the Pom is an adorable breed that thrives on human companionship. Requiring little space, the Pom is great for a family with older children.

Pug. Not at all pugnacious, the pug is an affectionate, loveable, even-tempered breed with great charm and dignity. Pugs love being part of the family. They are playful companions for children and will happily curl up on your lap for a nap.

Whippet. Whippets are quiet, gentle and loyal. This dog tends to greet strangers with a kiss and loves children. The also love to chase things so should always be kept on a leash or in a secure yard when venturing outdoors.

[yesygerm]

WOW... so many choices. But I like the site you gave me StColette. REALLY Helpful.

[StColette]

lol Glad it's helping I used to be a Vet. Med. student before I changed to Theology lol So I know dog breeds lol


Just as a note. You could always check your local humane society. They often have really good dogs that are wonderful with children. They even allow little play times to see how the dogs will act around the children, if you bring them with you. Plus you'd also be possibly saving the life of an animal

[Theologian in Training]

I was looking at the title of this thread, and the thought occurred to me, there's a difference?

Sorry, couldn't resist...