An email from a reader:
Hey John,
First off, I read your blog and like it a lot, though I don’t comment. Second, my grandmother’s looking to get a dog, partly because she’s been kind of lonely since my grandpa died, and I was wondering if you have any suggestions. We’re looking for a small dog, since she lives in an apartment and might want to be able to carry the dog in a bag onto public transportation, but we don’t want anything too yappy. Are there breeds that you’d recommend? If she picks up a mixed-breed puppy at a shelter, would she be able to make sure that it wouldn’t grow up into the Hound of the Baskervilles? If she does decide to go with a purebred I’ll push hard for her to get it from a breed rescue instead of a pet store.
She’s had dogs before, and is perfectly comfortable taking care of my aunt’s Golden now that he’s mellowed with age.
If you feel like it, I’d be fine with having this put up as a thread, since it’d be great to get input from the whole BJ crowd.
When my grandmother died about 15 years ago, my parents inherited her little Pekingese named Brandy, and she was just the sweetest little lapdog ever. I just don’t know that much about dogs to come up with a suggestion, but I would say avoid Jack Russell Terriers at all costs for a new dog owner. I also know that there are a lot of chihuahas that need to be rescued.
Your thoughts?
zeppo
Shih Tzu’s are awfully nice, well tempered little dogs that don’t bark a lot…
eric
David Broder seems to be an obedient lap dog, though i can’t say for sure if he fits in a bag for travelling.
eric
General Winfield Stuck
I think Chiuhaha’s are excellent dog pets — for the deaf. Or that come with permanent ear plugs. They are very loyal but loud and many bark constantly.
I am partial to Terriers, though JRT’s scare me a little, and I agree with Cole as a first pet. But the other breeds and mixed ones, are the best, smart loyal and good for indoor pets.
If you have a lot of outdoors space or fenced yard of large size, then Aussie Shephards, or mixed breeds are the best imo, as are Border Collies.
You Don't Say
I know an 85 year-old woman who has a bichon and they’re totally in love with one another.
I’d also like to advocate for cats. She wouldn’t have to walk a cat and a cat could be great company as well.
MattR
I would definitely avoid a mixed breed shelter puppy. You just never know what exactly you are getting. On the other hand, I would recommend an older mixed breed shelter dog. My mutt was fully grown when I got her at 7 months, but I would guess a year (or older) would be a safe cutoff. The only downside is that they may require more training. Or you can always go with an adult dog who is hopefully better trained and more mellow.
Triumph
I would avoid Terriers in general. My mom has a Shih Tzu that became very sweet and a great little dog after he got neutered.
GReynoldsCT00
My mom lost her beloved Maltese this past September, so there’s that. We miss her still. The new puppy is a Havanese and she has a wonderful temperament — very affectionate. Don’t know how many of these types need to be rescued but they’re good dogs.
beltane
I’ve met some very sweet, very quiet cocker spaniels. I’d check out a breed rescue organization.
harlana peppper
Chi’s are deeply loyal, my mom’s chi is a pretty cool little dog, just shy. He worships her. If picking out a chi, just check the demeanor of the dog to make sure it’s not one of the neurotic/hyper types, some are that way, and some are pretty mellow and friendly. There are miniatures and teacups which would easily fit in a handbag.
harlana peppper
and, yes, a shi tzu would be a good choice also
Ailuridae
@zeppo:
This. Not sure if most Shih Tzu’s stay small enough that they can do the Paris Hilton dog-in-a-bag thing. I think my dad’s two Shih Tzu’s that he’s had topped out in the mid-teens in terms of weight as well.
MattR
http://www.petfinder.com is a pretty good resource for breed info as well as finding an actual dog to adopt.
JAHILL10
I would recommend a rat terrier. Small enough to carry around in a bag and smart, affectionate little dogs, easy to train and not yippy like a chihuahua.
clonecone
Boston terrier. They are small, gentle, well behaved, quiet, clean, and they don’t like being outside for very long. They are perfect for an old lady (or anyone else for that matter).
donovong
With apologies to all Bitsy lovers (I’m one too!) we have two Pomeranians, and although they are technically my wife’s, we would not trade them for anything. They are not too yappy, are easily trained and are absolutely the most affectionate dogs I have ever seen.
Of course, the female, “Boo,” is queen of the household and owns and operates my German Shepherd. While she may only be 10 pounds of fluff, she controls that 100 pounds of muscle like he were her bitch.
Zhirem
Remember, if there is a specific breed one is after, many shelters and rescues will keep you on file, and notify you if such a dog becomes available.
All the dogs I have had in my life have been mixed breeds. Any dog will be well behaved if trained gently and consistently, but some breeds tend to have character traits.
If traveling with the dog is critical, you should most likely go with a Chihuahua. However, Cairn Terriers can also be wonderful little dogs. A bit on the yippy side potentially.
My two bits,
– Zhirem
Halteclere
My two cents: If you want to buy a dog from a breeder, try the newer breed Mi-Ki:
This is a newer breed, and I doubt there are many if any rescue dogs available. My wife wanted an indoor dog, and my only two requirements were that the dog 1) wasn’t a yappy, barky dog, and 2) it didn’t significantly shed. The Mi-Ki that we got was so wonderful that we got a second one a couple months later.
Generally I’d prefer taking home a shelter dog, but my wife and I don’t have the time or experience to make a bad dog good. Let me know if anyone wants the name of a very good Mi-Ki breeder.
Mnemosyne
A lot of humane societies have “Seniors for Seniors” programs where senior citizens can adopt an older dog or cat (usually age 5 or up) for free or a nominal charge. Since it sounds like the reader may want a smaller breed anyway, that might be one way to go, and the dog’s temperament and size would already be known quantities.
maya
Cocker Spaniels. They are excellent companions, very loyal and also make good watchdogs. The first dog I can remember in our family was a black Cocker, Dutchess. She was my babysitter on several occasions and would hang under the dining room table waiting for me to sneak her some snacks. {My mother wasn’t always the greatest cook.)
Flitterbic
The ASPCA has a program called “Meet Your Match”, which uses proven testing to find pets suitable for a person’s lifestyle. They implement the program with many shelters around the country. The success rate of adoptions (defined by decreased “turn-ins”, I believe) is pretty impressive.
This person (and other potential adopters) should ask their local shelter if they participate in the program.
==-+
Most shelters will have the small dogs in a different area.
Quick and easy way to check out what’s available in your area: Pet Finder.
I’d look for a older mutt. That way you don’t have to deal with the puppy energy or genetic idiosyncrasies. Keep in mind that small dogs tend to be more high strung than their bigger brethren. Oh and stay as far away from Chihuahuas as possible.
Quaker in a Basement
Go mutt! Purebreads are generally high-strung. You want yappy? Get a purebread. You want Not yappy, get a mutt.
serge
There are rescue groups for just about every breed around. I know only one small dog that I would recommend, a Havenese. They’re expensive as shit, but they have to be available from the rescue folks for that breed.
I’m a big dog guy, and I don’t generally look kindly on the yappers, but my brother has one of these and it’s the best and sweetest small dog I’ve come in contact with, not a yapper. Maybe not able to fit in a bag, you have to go real small for that, or carry a big tote bag. My motto is rescue, rescue, rescue. MuttsRUs.
beltane
@General Winfield Stuck: Border Collies are best in situations where they are given a job to do. They are real, not yet overbred, working dogs that can become somewhat destructive when bored. I’m not sure they’d be the best choice for an elderly, first-time, sheepless dog owner.
My Lab is very gentle and goes for weeks at a time without barking, but she does pull on the leash and would be overwhelming for the old folk.
Sue
My experience with Bostons (three of them) is that their energy level is really high. Of course, one of the Bs was raised with kids and the other two live together and playplayplay all the time, so maybe it’s environment.
And I would check on that public transportation thing. I’m not sure even packaged dogs are allowed in most places.
Houdini's Ghost
Pugs are great for the mildly incapacitated and/or lazy — they’re small and manageable, are generally content to spend their entire lives snoring on your lap, and don’t yap much. They have lots of personality and are incredibly affectionate.
Mine flips out when the doorbell rings, but otherwise never makes a peep (barring the snoring, which is really no joke. They don’t have much of a snout, so I’m not sure how they fit entire teams of chainsaw-wielding lumberjacks in there). For what it’s worth, she also handles public transportation and even airplanes (she rides in the cabin, under the seat) fine.
Captain Goto
My ex got a longhaired miniature dachshund, a little while after we split. He’s not especially yappy, but he will make a racket when someone comes to the door. So he has at least some security value. He’d probably fit in the bag, tho’ I don’t know how well he’d like it.
She said she picked that breed because they had a reputation as “a little dog with big-dog attitude.” That seems to be the case–once when I was dog-sitting, I remember him dashing across the street barking up a storm to confront a dog about five times his size–then, of course, turning and running like hell when the big guy decided to return the favor.
In general, I like him a lot. He’s about eleven now, and still always happy to see me when I come over to see my kid.
==-+
As a side note, PIt Bulls are some of the sweetest dogs you’ll ever meet, most I deal with just want to sit in your lap and be petted. Too bad they have such a horrible reputation, they really are just love bugs.
Mary
She should check out an all-breed rescue – one that has an extensive foster system. This type of organization can help match her up with a dog of known temperament and personality. If she lives anywhere in the Mid-Atlantic region I would be happy to help her find the right pup.
Neil Hudelson
While ‘no terriers’ is generally a good rule of thumb if you don’t know the differences, there are a few good terriers that are calm, pleasant, and generally quiet. Boston and welsh terriers come to mind. Good luck finding a kennel/rescue welsh terrier though.
Uriel
Well, as far as small dogs go:
I just finished watching a yorkie/ dachsund mix for a friend and I have to admit that it was, in fact, the best dog ever. Mellow when you wanted it, excitable when you wanted it, affectionate, but small enough that it didn’t overwhelm you when it was…
Within three hours, my family and I were scouring the shelters in a hundred mile radius to see if we couldn’t find another.
And I don’t even like dogs, as a rule.
Colonel Danite
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. We have two and they are the sweetest, smartest, most loving dogs we have ever had. They are the largest of the toy breeds and can weigh up to 18-20 lbs, so they might be a bit on the heavy side to carry around too much.
peach flavored shampoo
Friend has a Havanese. Wicked fun, gentle, playful, and generally travel-friendly. Small poop.
For a completely non-barker, gotta go with that African breed (cant remember what it’s called).
satby
Of the hundreds of dogs I’ve fostered, transported, or handled in some way, only Chiuhahas have bit me. So I’m not a fan of that breed. There are a lot of “designer” toy mixed breed dogs available now; they’re essentially mutts that somebody was schmoozled into paying big bucks for and then they get dumped at pounds when they’re about 7 months old and the cute has worn off. I think that’s a perfect age to adopt a dog, they’re still pups, but they’re almost over the destructive chewing stage and are usually housebroken. It’s a shame really, just as the dog is making progress in training is when a lot of people give up.
And yeah, Boston terriers are really high energy, it’s the breed. So not a good choice for an older person particularly.
kid bitzer
i’d add my voice to those saying:
1) avoid any kind of terrier;
2) look at a small spaniel. totally mellow, low-exercise, low-stress. ideal for old folks
Max
@serge: I second the Havanese.
Halteclere
A shameless plug: my father’s office manager breeds dogs on the side. I fully vouch for her as being a very good breeder. This woman grills the potential buyer, and if she thinks they are not a fit for her dogs she’ll politely (or not so politely) tell the buyer to go elsewhere.
If you are looking for a Maltese, Coton de Tulear or Frenchies contact Carol.
Mary
@==-+:
@General Winfield Stuck:
Pit bulls and border collies are my absolute two favorite breeds of dogs, but I would hesitate to recommend them to just any adopters. They are both wonderful, smart, affectionate dogs, but both require a lot of attention and training. Definitely not breeds for the casual dog-lover.
Also, a note on small dogs: A dog that is small in body is not necessarily one that needs less space. I’ve seen Great Danes that do better in an apartment setting than Jack Russell Terriers. Physical size is just one factor that should be considered, along with age, temperament, behavior history, etc.
Mary
@==-+:
@General Winfield Stuck:
Pit bulls and border collies are my absolute two favorite breeds of dogs, but I would hesitate to recommend them to just any adopters. They are both wonderful, smart, affectionate dogs, but both require a lot of attention and training. Definitely not breeds for the casual dog-lover.
Also, a note on small dogs: A dog that is small in body is not necessarily one that needs less space. I’ve seen Great Danes that do better in an apartment setting than Jack Russell Terriers. Physical size is just one factor that should be considered, along with age, temperament, behavior history, etc.
Woodrowfan
Get an adult dog rather than a puppy and go with a rescue group, especially one that uses foster parents as they can help with picking a dog with the right temperament, etc.
We’ve had great luck with a rat terrier and a fox terrier.
beltane
@Colonel Danite: Oh, those sound lovely. Just the right size to warm up the bed without taking over. If we ever get a second dog, I think a Cavalier King Charles would be on the short list. So cute.
Jackie
I beg to differ with MattR (#5). I have been volunteering at a shelter for 6 years now, and our director can pretty much decipher what went into the mix of the mutts who come our way. She can predict a puppy’s ultimate size and is amazingly fast reading the dog’s temperament. What you WILL get with a shelter mutt is hybrid vigor, which means you won’t have a bunch of health problems and vet bills. My friend lost a bichon to cancer at age 5, and she’s a vet! She now agrees that pedigreed dogs are too inbred. So it is the pure bred dog that is the unknown, genetically speaking, not the Heinz 57 variety types.
satby
And you know, I think a cat would be a really great option for an older peson too, just look for a lovey, friendly one at any shelter. Oddly enough, black cats are notoriously friendly and good companions but they aren’t adopted as much.
Stroszek
I would second Pugs and Boston Terriers as low maintenance dogs for low activity people. French Bulldogs are also great in that sense.
I would add that, when helping an elderly parent adopt a dog, it’s important to to vocally commit to adopt him/her in case of a tragedy. Concern for what will happen to pets is something that weighs heavily on a lot of elderly people and many are kind of culturally conditioned to think it’s unseemly to ask anyone to be their pet’s guardian. Making it clear that you would happily welcome the dog into your household should make it a worry-free experience for everyone.
Emma Anne
Actually, I would avoid a rescue for her. We have a rescue we love to death, but she has taken (and will take) a lot of intensive and careful handling to overcome her issues. It doesn’t seem like a good choice for a first time dog owner or a person with limited energy. Pet shop dogs can be as bad as rescues – they are usually from puppy mills and haven’t spent enough time with people and were taken away from their mothers too young.
If she wants a purebred, she can get one from a reputable breeder. It’s a bit more expensive, but these dogs are properly socialized to people and their mother and siblings.
Yorkies are darling and small enough to carry. They do yap a bit though.
beltane
@satby: Cats also have the advantage of keeping away vermin, which makes them indispensable for those of us who really dislike mice. And you’re right, I’ve never met a mean black cat.
Maxwel
Black cats are supposed to be smarter.
kid bitzer
“I also know that there are a lot of chiuhaha’s that need to be
rescuedkicked.”sorry–i’m a dog-lover, but i’ve got limits.
thomas Levenson
@beltane: Cocker spaniels start out sweet but can get very nippy as they age. Kind of like my psycho cat, actually, friendly as hell until he takes your arm off at the elbow.
Truly outre suggestion: Pulis. They’re the smaller of the Hungarian wet mop breeds. Loyal as hell and funny looking too.
thomas Levenson
@beltane: Cocker spaniels start out sweet but can get very nippy as they age. Kind of like my psycho cat, actually, friendly as hell until he takes your arm off at the elbow.
Truly outre suggestion: Pulis. They’re the smaller of the Hungarian wet mop breeds. Loyal as hell and funny looking too.
S. cerevisiae
@peach flavored shampoo: Second on the Cavalier. We have a lovely one who is about 15 pounds, loves to fetch her soft frisbee, and points like a big field dog. Alert and smart, she will bark when the door bell rings, but is a perfect lap dog. She is a big dog in a little dogs body, but does her barking from the deck where she can beat a hasty retreat if needed.
edit- should be reply to Colonel Danite @ 30 – sorry
Mary
@beltane: Totally agreed on the border collies. One of my two favorite breeds, but I think as a general rule people who are looking for a casual pet should avoid breeds that are bred for work. Not that all border collies need to be working sheep to live happy lives, but they will require a lot more attention and energy in general
Ditto on the pit bulls (my other absolute fave breed). While not specifically bred for “work” in the manner of a border collie or even a JRT, they are bred for a fairly intense personality that is not right for everyone.
Stroszek
@Emma Anne: I agree that ethical breeders are the best route for people with very specific needs, but unfortunately, it’s become morally fashionable to dump on responsible breeders in recent years. Adopting rescues is a wonderful thing to do, but like adopting older children, it often requires a certain skill set and level of commitment that many people simply don’t have.
Donna
John,
Whatever breed she ends up with, tell her to look at older dogs. A young adult (around 1-2) has grown out of the puppy stage…something most older people really don’t need anyway.
Depending on her age, she might also consider and older adult dog. This is what I’ve talked to my 75 year old mother about. She’s still active, but she doesn’t need the activity level that a younger dog can bring.
After that, tell her to definitely look at rescue groups and shelters. http://www.petfinder.com is an outstanding resource.
tinat
I third the Cavalier idea! Sweet and smart dogs, love to be in your lap but are still smart enough to alert you to something unusual going on.
No to Cocker Spaniels unless you like cleaning up their piss every time they get excited.
serge
@thomas Levenson…I agree to the max. They’re not that small but they are sweet. I had a puli/standard poodle mix, I called him a McClellanville dirt-dog, cuz that’s how I found him. He existed only for love…otherwise he was asleep. His name was Dustmop. Great dog whom I miss with all the others.
feebog
I know the emphasis has been on small dogs, but if she is looking for a mellow, low maintenence dog she should consider a retired Grayhound. They are large enough to provide a sense of security, but are very gentle and laid back. If she was ok with an older GR, then this might be the way to go.
Estragon
I will fourth the suggestion of cavaliers. I had one for 14 years – best dog ever. Sweet, affectionate, and loyal – although I’ll disagree with the commenters here who seem to think that Cavs are smart dogs. Our old boy was no Rhodes Scholar.
Demo Woman
Dachshunds are really sweet!
MazeDancer
Two good choices: the “Seniors for Seniors” programs mentioned above, where you know exactly what you’re getting.
And little dogs who recently lost their homes through no fault of their own because their owner, alas, passed away, and hadn’t made arrangements.
Every large shelter receives small pets who used to be pampered by someone recently departed. Often, these previously adored pets are taken in by rescue groups. The little pet is bewildered and only wanting to be spoiled and petted and in return love someone again.
Could be just the thing.
Will Danz
A lot of chihuahua’s WHAT?
Dude! Misspelled and possessive?
Know-it-all-jerkism aside, I’d second the pug or Boston Terrier. Small, pretty easy to train, not hyper.
Jackie
You fans of Cavaliers might have a look at this. Warning: Very hard to watch.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHup_bE6GQQ
Comrade Mary
The single most loving, demonstrative and cuddly cat I ever had was black (and born on Valentine’s Day). I tried to foist her off on my ex for the first few years we had her because I couldn’t take the way she would embrace me with her paws, claws mostly retracted, and avidly lick my face and neck several times a day. But eventually I gave into her wiles, she forgave my coolness, and she became My Cat (or, rather, I became Her Human) and she slept in my armpit, purring away, every night until the last visit to the vet when she was 16.
If any of y’all are ever looking to adopt a cat, take a look at the black ones first. They’ll own you, and you’ll love it.
ms. denver
i’d like to second the rec for a pug. great low maintenance dogs. don’t require a lot of exercise, very affectionate, loads of personality, not yippy. my pugs will get barky at thunder & lightening but that’s it. they get spurts of playful energy, but are generally content to nap and cuddle. easy to transport. our pugs are really really wonderful w/ small children/babies. not aggressive at all. male pugs are known for peeing in the house tho. my male pug wears a belly band when we aren’t at home. haven’t experienced the same issues w/ female pugs. (my mother has two female pugs, has never had incontinence problems. and our newest addition, chloe, doesn’t have any incontinence problems either.)
went through pug rescue for both of my pugs. i’ve had my first pug for the last 11 years. He’s 13 and he’s still got some spunk. just adopted our second pug over the summer, she is 4. the two of them are cuddle buddies. rescue orgs are very very good at matching dogs w/ owners. they really want to be sure they are placing the dog in their “forever home.”
aimai
I’m reading too fast: I misread the entire post because I thought the writer said his grandmother was “looking *like* a dog.” Thought it was going to be about Obama voter remorse.
aimai
aimai
That being said there is another great cat to be considered. They are called Ragdolls and I swear to god they are the most loving, intense, all over you cats of all time. I was raised with Siamese so I’m more in the “I like a cat with attitude” family but a friend of mine had one of these Ragdolls and she couldn’t get enough of me, a perfect stranger, and after an afternoon with her I wanted one really badly. They are just so loving and so cuddly. I highly recommend them to her if she is mistaken about wanting a dog.
aimai
KyCole
What about a poodle? Although not my cup of tea, they can be small and are very intelligent (so I’ve heard). Frankly, I think the idea of getting an older dog or a cat is the best. As for rescue dogs- my dad got a rescue Golden, and although he was a great dog, he had serious issues with storms that they only found out about after he dug a hole in the floor in front of the bedroom door while they were out.
mainsailset
After you watch this you will see why I am totally unqualified to make a suggestion and yes I own a Newfie. Alert, I was laughing so hard at the youtube I may have hit the wrong key, enjoy http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDe8Z94HUXI
Violet
@KyCole:
Poodles can be great little dogs. Second the recommendation for getting an older dog. Love the Seniors for Seniors suggestion. A little looking around should turn up a couple of good dog candidates for your grandma. That’s sweet you want to help her!
Keith G
I have seen many senior citizen/pug relationships. Both parties seemed overwhelmingly satisfied.
I got to know several of the dogs in question. They were gentle, personable and loving to a critter.
treefrogjohn
I’ll add another recommend for a Cavalier Spaniel. Mine is five , topped out at seventeen lbs, and is the sweetest dog I have ever owned. It is like his whole purpose in life is to be there when I need a head to scratch or my lap is empty. He loves to run but is unwilling to ever get far away from me. He comes when called and has a tail that never stops wagging.
Stroszek
@KyCole: I have a mini-poodle and love him, but despite their reputation as lap dogs, they require a lot of exercise to stay happy. They were, after all, bred as bird-hunting dogs.
RedKitten
Pugs are lovely. I would also definitely recommend the Shih Tzu — a neighbour of mine has one named Josie, and she’s just the sweetest, friendliest little dog you’d ever want to meet.
Bostons are sweet, but they ARE high-energy.
Welsh Terriers are nice as well. My MIL has one, and she really seems to take to senior citizens, for some odd reason. They’re not at all yappy, don’t shed, and for the most part are sweet-tempered. You might want to avoid a female that’s had litters, though — they can get possessive with their toys, making them a little nippy and bitchy at times. They’re a little big to carry, though.
I think my highest recommendation would be for the Shih Tzu. They don’t shed either (as a general rule, any dog whose coat grows in length won’t shed as much). Your grandma can keep the coat long if she would enjoy spending time grooming it, or they can have a “puppy cut”, which looks freaking adorable.
RedKitten
Be careful with the Cavalier Spaniels, if your grandmother does go that route. They’re VERY popular right now, which sadly, often translates into unethical breeding practices.
Honestly, your grandma will likely wind up with a healthier dog if she finds one that is predominantly the breed for which she’s looking, with something else mixed in. No matter what breed you choose, pretty much all purebreds are more prone to health conditions than mutts are.
What NOT to adopt
I will second thumbs down on Jack Russell Terriers for a new dog owner. My wife’s cousin has had three of them. Frenetic Muppets on Meth doesn’t begin to describe what having two of them in the same room is like. I remember back after 101 Dalmations was released when a lot of people thought they wanted a Dalmation, only to find out what a handful that breed could be. If only more people would take the time to consider the personality traits of the dog they bring in to their home, I think there would be a lot fewer mismatches. That being said, the Norwegian Blue makes for a wonderful pet.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npjOSLCR2hE
Carrie
I also suggest a Cocker.
I have an American Cocker ands she’s the sweetest, most affectionate non-yappie lap dog i’ve ever known. The American Cockers are smaller than the regular Cockers.
mandarama
@KyCole:
As a rescue Golden person, I’m sorry to hear this story: rescues are supposed to carefully observe their dogs in foster before placing them, and be candid about any neuroses up front with the adopters. Goldens are prone to storm fear (often because they’ve been tied outside in storms; a lot of folks’ answer to a cute puppy turning into a large spaz who sheds everywhere is to tie them outside permanently) so we watch for that and rehabilitate / screen for an owner who can help too. I’m sorry your dad had to deal with that unexpectedly!
I have to add my voice to the chorus for Shih Tzu. While they’re not my kind of dog (I like ’em big and stupid! –Downtown Julie Brown*), they are sweet-natured and not very yappy for little dogs. I think a 2-3 year-old would be a great fit for an elderly lady.
(*N.B. I don’t really think Goldens are stupid. Mine’s just not what you’d call an independent thinker.)
jean
Greyhound rescue dog. Not small, but VERY used to small confined spaces, trained (!?) not to bark, and very gentle. And if ever a breed needed rescue, it’s greyhounds. They are put out to pasture in a garbage can after their racing days are over.
They like a walk, but don’t go nuts if they don’t get out. And I’d guess they travel well, as they are carted around the country.
mandarama
@What NOT to adopt:
Heh. Do I know you? ‘Cause I see you’ve met my kids.
bey
@kid bitzer: Tinabutt, my rescue chiweenie, forgives you for your unreasonable prejudice against her chihuahua heritage.
She barks only to announce visitors (encouraged), break up catfights (also encouraged), and to chase away squirrel invaders (halfheartedly discouraged).
The “designer dog” rescues are often small adults. Just the right size and age for someone to enjoy and train without the craziness of puppy behavior.
I’ve said this before, but adopting her ranks up there with my all-time great decisions.
Lesley
@General Winfield Stuck:
What the General said.
The best option IMO would be a dog from the Humane Society. Rescuing an animal brings comfort and much love. The animals are acutely aware they have been saved. Most reputable rescue societies give prospective owners an opportunity to get to know the animal before they decide.
The Humane Society of the United States http://www.humanesociety.org/ should be able to provide a list of reputable rescue agencies in her geographic area.
Buying from a pet store should be a no go as these are nothing more than peddlers for puppy mills. Buying from one would mean contributing to supporting an industry that is systemically and routinely cruel to animals.
If she decides to buy a purebred she will need to do homework as some breeders are actually puppy mills disguised. Our family was ripped off by a less than reputable breeder and we didn’t know until the dog grew older and the deformities from inbreeding became apparent. The dog also suffered and had to be put down, because of the actions of the breeder. The experience was devastating.
eastriver
I say put her in the JC Pet Pic Of The Day Club and call it quits.
Woodrowfan
I’ve had five rescue dogs, FYI, and only 1 had “issues.” (very over-protective of my wife and me)
And I’ve also heard great things about rescued greyhounds, loving, gentle couch potatoes.
Fern
I recommend getting an animal that is old enough that you get a decent sense of its temperament.
I’d also suggest considering a cat if your grandmother is old enough that she might be facing mobility issues in the not-too-distant future.
DPirate
Help me get a dog?!? wtf
Go to the dog pound and pick out a dog for pete’s sake!
Does no one care about animals unless they are a status symbol anymore?
Speaking of which, was anyone else pissed off when Obama chose to get a purebred animal instead of a pound pooch? I figured it was an omen of where his sympathies would lie – with the money-dogs instead of the mutts.
HRA
I recommend a Shorkie. That is a mix of a Shih-Tzu and Yorkie. There are 2 in our family. Ours (Tiki) maxed out at 15 lbs.The other one (Chouee) is a petite little lady and much smaller. They do not shed. They have hair which is a plus. Yes, they will bark when they sense someone at the door.
My sister has a Shih-Tzu (Ching) who is a very loving quiet dog, too. I have never heard him bark. This would be my recommendation as well.
We did have a miniature pit bull (Ginger) in our family who was a slight bigger then our Shorkie. She was quiet and loving. She died and now that family has a huge pit bull mix that I would not recommend at all for an older person. High strung and like a bull in a china shop. We all had to dodge him on Christmas or get injured.
I had a Welsh Corgi (Trapper) for 17 years and a black long haired retriever (Tasha) for 9 years. Both were great dogs for a younger age and children.
Jinx
@feebog:
I second the (rescue) Greyhound suggestion. I’ve had 3 over the years.
Rescue greyhounds rarely bark or jump, are extremely gentle/affectionate and easy going. While mine enjoyed running and playing in a fenced area they only needed about 15-30 minutes activity to get their ya-yas out. Many grey owners find a walk sufficient. The rest of the time they want a soft place to lay down and enjoy their retirement.
They require premium food (they can nearly starve on the cheap stuff), they do shed and they CANNOT be left outside. Greys have no undercoat to insulate against heat or cold. Adoption costs are usually between $100-250. Most greys have been fostered before they are made available for adoption so there is first hand information about them for interested adopters.
Regardless to breed or non-breed, I think a mature dog (greys are anywhere from 2-7 generally with a life that ranges from 10 – 15 years) should be considered here.
Also, where greys may seem too large for consideration, their unobtrusiveness really offsets it.
RedKitten
@DPirate: Um…researching the temperaments and energy levels/ care requirements of various breeds before getting a dog is actually considered responsible. This isn’t about a status symbol — this is about making sure that this woman is getting a dog who will fit in with her life circumstances, which vastly reduces the odds that the dog will wind up back at the pound where it started.
If more people actually DID that kind of research, and asked those kinds of questions, instead of just going to the pound and picking out a dog based on the emotion of the moment, there would be a lot fewer dogs being returned to pounds.
Tattoosydney
Damn time zones. This may be as close as we get to an open thread before I crash into jet lagged sleep, so I will stick this here. Can one of you kind people direct asiangrrlmn, yutsano, ahab, Laura et al here? Thanks muchly.
Amsterdam. Still cold. Sunny today. Bought some opera glasses, two handpuppets for friends’ babies (I particularly like the dinosaur), and some new tulips (which go for eight euros for fifty tulips). Had pretty good caipirinhas, and Alaskan crab claws for dinner.
Pictures (including a particularly cute Pedro doing upside down dog, and a cute cat on a window pic) are at:
http://m.flickr.com/#/photos/45957530@N02/4221749524/
Excuse the naked link. iPhone HTML linkage hard to do when you desperately need sleep.
Tattoosydney
Agh. Is in moderation. Plz halp.
ETRepost. sorry.
Damn time zones. This may be as close as we get to an open thread before I crash into jet lagged sleep, so I will stick this here. Can one of you kind people direct asiangrrlmn, yutsano, ahab, Laura et al here? Thanks muchly.
Amsterdam. Still cold. Sunny today. Bought some opera glasses, two handpuppets for friends’ babies (I particularly like the dinosaur), and some new tulips (which go for eight euros for fifty tulips). Had pretty good caipirinhas, and Alaskan crab claws for dinner.
Pictures (including a particularly cute Pedro doing upside down dog, and a cute cat on a window pic) are at:
http://m.flickr.com/#/photos/45957530@N02/4221749524/
Excuse the naked link. iPhone HTML linkage hard to do when you desperately need sleep.
Betsy
@Tattoosydney:
I know asiangrrlmn was leaving on a jet plane, not sure when she’d be back (on the internet) again. But I’m sure if she makes an appearance someone will point her your way. :)
The pic of your Amsterdam apt. makes me sick with jealousy.
Betsy
@DPirate:
Did you even read the request? It is entirely appropriate to do research about the kind of pooch that would be appropriate for one’s apartment-dwelling grandma.
My stepmom runs a dog rescue group and would give her right arm to have more people who did that kind of research before adopting.
Paul in NC
All those commenters who advise against terriers have never had a rat terrier. They are high energy but have an off button. They love human contact. True lap dogs. Smart, curious, non-aggressive around children. Lots of personality. Only drawback is if they get loose they have no sense of territory. They might not come back, or will recklessly run into traffic. They won’t stay at your heel. Otherwise, best dogs I’ve ever had.
Tattoosydney
@Betsy:
Thanks Betsy. Inciting jealousy not my intention I promise. That said it’s a pretty damn nice apartment. And not hideously expensive for Amsterdam. Which is I suspect the same as saying hideously expensive.
Oh well. You only honeymoon once. Even if it means you eat a lit of soup. Did I mention the soup? Dutch very good at soup, including premade stuff from the supermarket.
Poicephalus
See Atrios here
So many things you need to know to answer a question like that.
C
Angela
We have Bedlington Terriors. They are the sweetest most eager to please dogs I have ever mothered. Non-shedding, rarely bark, happy sleeping all day, or walking, and very easy to train. They Iook like lambs and have the heart of lions. I know there is a Bedlington rescue too.
Good luck with finding a great dog for your grandmother. I spent 4 years without a dog once, way too much time to waste without a loyal companion.
fraught
@Colonel Danite: I’m with you on the Cavalier King Charles. They simply do not yap ever. They adjust to any level of activity and are known as comfort dogs. And their faces are so cute they can make you cry.
Gus
@mainsailset: Lucky you. I love Newfies, but my wife is allergic to any shedding dogs. Plus we don’t have the room for a dog that big.
Anne Laurie
Papillons! (And shame on you, Mr. Cole, for not mentioning them sooner, since you’ve mentioned your uncle’s a breeder.)
To second the most helpful suggestions above: By all means go through a rescue program, breed-specific or not, and pay particular attention to dogs over the age of two. Many rescue programs have discount programs for senior citizens — even if it’s not mentioned on their website, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Most of the breed-specific rescues also find space for ‘crosses’, and they can be very helpful with transport issues if the Perfect Dog turns out to live beyond the end of the subway line. The adoption forms can seem a little intimidating, as can the ‘home study’, but it helps to keep in mind that these people want to find the right homes for dogs who’ve already been “failed” by their original families. Also, every breed rescue I know of will take back a dog whose adopter can no longer care for it, so Grannie doesn’t have to worry about “burdening” a family member or having her new little darling end up in a kill shelter.
“Purse dogs” actually have a history going back to the Stone Age, and some of the modern breeds — Maltese, Italian Greyhounds, Shi Tzus, Chihuahuas — haven’t changed much from the pictures / descriptions of their ancestors a thousand years ago. They’ve survived because being a good companion, especially to someone with limited mobility, is just as real a “job” as fetching birds or herding sheep. However, part of that job frequently involved serving as a form of pre-battery-power personal protection alarm, so they can be yappy and they can be over-protective of “their” person, especially when they haven’t been exposed to strangers and new experiences. Also, toy dogs are notoriously hard to housebreak, partially because they’ve got relatively tiny bladders, and their relative ‘neotony’ means they don’t always outgrow the submissive-puppy piddling even after they’re physically mature. On the positive side, a tiny dog can be trained to use a piddle-pad or litterbox, at least for emergencies, so Granny doesn’t have to go outside late at night during a storm. Working with a good rescue group, breed-specific or not, will help you find the particular dog that’s quiet enough to live in an apartment and who won’t “resource guard” their new favorite person.
Much as I’ve loved every rescue Greyhound I’ve ever met, I would hesitate to recommend them to an older person. Yes, they are amazingly calm and wonderfully affectionate dogs, but they also have an ingrained, training-reinforced “prey drive”. Even the gentlest Greyhound is liable to leap after a running squirrel, cat, jogger, or fluttering rag at the worst possible time — their reaction time is SCARY fast and when they lunge, they can knock a healthy ex-Marine arse over tip. All that man sustained was a bruised hand & a nasty pavement rash on both knees & one hip. But during the years I worked with obedience classes, I saw a lot of older people who suffered much nastier injuries, from leash-inflicted wounds that required stitches to broken bones, because their beloved dogs forgot how fragile humans can be. When an older person is looking for a new canine companion, Smaller is definitely Better!
True story: A dear friend well past retirement age was bragging about how his rescue Lab was “absolutely the best dog in the world — I can’t believe anyone was dumb enough to give up such a great animal.”
“Marvin,” I said, “during the first few months after you adopted Sparky, he put you in a walking cast, and then he broke your wrist!”
“Yes, and also three of Lenore’s [his wife’s] ribs, when he pulled her down the stairs by mistake! But when you’ve been married as long as I have, you’ll know: Every relationship requires compromises.”
(Yes, Lenore was listening… she just rolled her eyes.)
RedKitten
@Angela: I’ve always been intrigued by Bedlingtons — they seem like they have a bit of that great terrier spirit, but aren’t as feisty as many other terriers.
Mind you, I have a huge soft spot for terriers in all forms (except for Yorkies — they ARE yappy little things.)
2liberal
my dad is retired and in his 80s and wanted another dog. he researched and came up with a ‘king charles spaniel’ as his breed of choice and it has worked out great.
Original Lee
Good luck on finding the dog for the grandmother.
I am sitting here still waiting to bring my “new” dogs home. I got all the way through the adoption process, only to find out that Dog One tested positive for heartworm, and Dog Two is recovering from being bitten by one of the other rescue dogs (not by Dog One). Foster mom is being terrific about it all – very fiercely protective of the dogs and of making sure they’re healthy before I come to get them – but it is frustrating when you’ve met your new canine heartthrobs and circumstances are keeping you apart.
reality-based
@Maxwel:
re black cats being smarter – my darlin Edith, coal black and slender, now 10 years old – is not only a cat genius, she’s the most loving, talkative, snuggly girl you can imagine.
She is, however, obsessed with fetching. It took me 10 minutes to teach her the game when she was a kitten – and now, you cannot say the word “ball” in her hearing, or she starts jumping up and down and calling loudly, waiting for the promised game to start. She will fetch for HOURS, if someone will play that long.
Now that I’m back in NoDak, near my 87-year-old mom, I’m amazed at how devoted she and Edith have become to each other – it helps that they both like to talk, and the mom-cat conversations go one for quite some time!
However, if your mom wants a dog, I second the cocker spaniel suggestion!
reality-based
@DPirate:
um, jeez – is there ANYTHING people won’t blame Obama for?
(said as one who has been grumbling a bit about the man myself, lately. )
FYI, they got a Portuguese water dog because:
A. they are the most hypoallergenic of all dog breeds, and their daughter Malia desperately wanted a dog, even though she was allergic to them, and
B. Their dog came to them by way of Senator Ted Kennedy, whose two adored Portuguese water dogs the Obama girls had met and loved.
Jeesh – give the guy a break, OK?
Aaron
Pug.
Glocksman
My niece’s large breed rescue has an 8 month old Great Dane up for adoption, but I suspect that small horse might be a tad large. :)
That said, smaller mutts are available from many sources and will (I know from personal experience) make loyal and loving companions.
Plus they carry the side benefit if you live in a ‘not so great’ area of being wonderful mobile burglar alarms that give you time to grab the .45 in the night table and ventilate said burglar.
Glocksman
If the adoptor in question was either younger or had the yardage available, I’d recommend a boxer.
That said, boxers require a lot of ‘playtime’ and are very rambunctious.
My own boxer chewed up a $100 Yamaha* receiver remote before she became ‘acclimatized’ to me.
Once they get over that period though, they are very loyal and protective animals who’d sooner die than see harm come to you and yours.
Though I’ve often said that Haley’s sole job is to delay the SOB just long enough for me to open fire. :)
*Normal price was $190, but after I explained to the Yamaha rep that I wasn’t seeking a free warranty replacement, but rather wished to purchase one because of the dog eating it, she sold it to me for almost half off what I normally would have been charged.
That incident made me a lifelong customer of Yamaha WRT A/V equipment.
drunken hausfrau
We have a pug — and I want to say “ditto” to Houdini’s Ghost at #25 — with one caveat: if you need a “small” pug, make sure to adopt a small adult pug. We got a puppy, who was supposed to be “small” when grown — instead, he is HUGE. We adore him — but, he does not fit in a handbag or under the seat in an airplane!
And I love the snoring… it’s the most soothing little white noise sound… and I have it in stereo, with Mr. Drunken on the other end of the bed.
Keenanjay
I vouch for the Chichi as a great lap dog and cuddle partner. We have 3 and 7 over the years. They are territorial and very loyal, ergo the yapping at strangers, but don’t buy them being constant barkers – that only happens with lazy owners who don’t train them to behave at home. Socialization is important too – expose them to as many people as possible to include in their circle of “friendly” people.
gelfling545
I am in my 60’s and enjoy my pug and find her easy to deal with, move about, etc. They do shed (a lot) but are great companions. My daughter found her for me through a pug rescue and she’s been a delightful pet. They tend to be of placid temperament but sociable as well.
Moesha
I have a 9 pound toy poodle. Best little dog ever. He’s not yappy, totally affectionate and he’s smart as a whip. Since I live in NYC and take public transportation, he’s totally portable.