hen on the search for a new pup the selection process can be as simple or detailed as you would like. Three years ago, when I was on the hunt for a new dog, there were a few things I knew I HAD to have: he needed to be small (I lived in an apartment), he needed to not shed (I didn’t want to have to constantly cleanup hair), and he needed to be smart (I couldn’t deal with slow/stubborn dog at that point in my life, lol ;).
Those parameters narrowed down my list pretty quickly, so similarly I would advise you to follow the steps below when choosing a new dog:
Staffordshire Terriers (aka Pitbulls), Labrador Retrievers, Rottweilers, Doberman, and Golden Retrievers seems to be the top dogs of choice for most men. This is even reflected on TV– whether its Isis, the yellow Lab of Downtown Abbey or a 3-legged Pitbull named Champion from Parks & Rec. But when living in the city you don’t always want a large dog. You low-key like your girlfriends small dog, and wouldn’t mind a similarly sized pup but Yorkies, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranian just seem too girly and froo froo. So what does a guy get when he wants a small dog…
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is from the terrier family and that originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. Weight: 11-20 Life span: 12 – 15 years. Temperament: Spirited, Alert, Obedient, Friendly, Fearless, Intelligent. Read more about them, here
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier aka the “American Gentleman” originates from the United States. Weight: 10-20lbs. Life span: 13 – 15 years. Temperament: Lively, Friendly, Intelligent. Read more about them, here.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog aka “Frenchies” originates from France and England. Weight: 16-28lbs. Life span: 10 – 12 years. Dog Temperament: Lively, Playful, Athletic, Alert, Easygoing, Bright, Keen, Patient, Affectionate, Sociable. Read more about them, here.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu originates from Japan. A small, agile dog that copes very well with mountainous terrain, the Shiba Inu was originally bred for hunting. Weight: 15-24lbs. Life span: 12 – 15 years Temperament: Charming, Alert, Faithful, Confident, Keen, Fearless. Read more about them, here.
Miniature Golden Retrievers
While creating new hybrids and mixing breeds is not looked on favorably, I will admit to really liking the newer Miniature Golden Retrievers aka Petite Golden Retriever. I first saw one in the park a year or so ago and it was a very attractive dog. Weight: 20-40lbs. Life Span varies. Temperament: varies (that of a cocker spaniel, poodle, and golden retriever).
