Small dog breed with few health issues??

Question

My little girls want a dachshund very badly. I have heard they can have chronic back problems that are quite costly. I would love to give them a pet, but I could not afford the rediculous vet bills.

Can anyone suggest a small breed of dog that is typically healthy and happy living in the house most of the time being coddled by people?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

First of all, how old are your girls. Very small dogs are typically not particularly good with young kids because the dogs get nervous around them and can get nippy.

I strongly believe that you should do your own research because otherwise you're going to have everyone recommending whatever breed they have. The best thing you could do is either get an all breed book or better yet, take your girls to a dog show. When you find a breed or breeds you like the looks of, then research that breed as to health problems, temperament, energy level to see whether it fits your lifestyle, grooming needs, and so on. If you're at a dog show you can talk to people who have the breed and actually interact with the dogs to find the dog that is the perfect fit for your family. Good luck with your search!

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Realistic and sensible.....confirms my own thoughts....thanks!

Answer 2

I have a miniature Italian Greyhound. He loves kids and is always on my lap, but he runs really fast if he gets loose you ll never catch him.

Answer 3

ive had my dachsund for 3years now i got him at 15 so i was looking for a sturdy kind of dog i chosse him and he has been fine just dont let them jump on or off things and it should be fine. dont let this put you off them they are lovely dogs trust me, good luck with finding a dog for your children they are lucky to have a parent who is whiling to let them experiance what it is like to own a dog gd luck

Answer 4

MALTESSE, FOX TERRIER

Answer 5

Go for staffies, they make wonderful family pets and are great with kids. They will be also very protective over your girls.

Just remember to teach your kids to grow up and respect not only their animals however all. If your thinking of getting a Maltese ( I have two, gorgeouse, gorgeouse Malteses) remember they need to be respected, just like all.

Answer 6

A schnauzer. They are good watch dogs, very smart and playful and they don't shed either.

Answer 7

Any type of terrier with a wiry coat would be best, they don't shed & are easy to maintain though not a fox terrier or jack russell as they are very energertic!
Poodles are low allergent & pretty smart.

Answer 8

There is a long list of small dogs not so prone to problems. I'm sure your girls will like any breed you bring home. I'm glad you are thinking in advance about bills associated with pets because they do happen (to almost every animal at some time).

Now the list...shetland sheep dogs(great dogs!), miniature poodles, lhasa apso, shih tzu, maltese (although they seem to present more often at the clinic), west highland terriers, scotch terriers (the last 2 are very sturdy little dogs), miniature schnauzers, pomeranian, shiba inu.

There are many out there, you can look them up on the web, you are doing the right thing to look at major breed problems. It doesn't mean every dog will get the disease but it does prepare you for it if it does happen.

Perhaps your best bet...take your girls to the SPCA and choose a puppy that needs a loving home, they really do make excellent pets and often cross breeds get the better genetics of both parents so are less prone to breed specific problems.

Good luck with it all!

Answer 9

I would suggest a rat terrier puppy to start out with so they can grow up together. They have very few health problems and if they come from good lines they should be structurally sound. They are great family dogs and very loyal. They are also quite smart and pretty easy to train as long as you are consistant. Mine all live indoors and sleep with us.

Answer 10

Caveleir King Charles Spaniel. They are GREAT family dogs and they are adorable, they grow to about 10 pounds.