Which breed

[Inadither]

I'm considering getting a dog. Torn between getting a cavalier King Charles, miniature schnauzer or Tibetan terrier. It needs to be family friendly and not really high energy. I've done loads of research and these seem like they are suitable candidates although maybe the Tibetan terrier a bit to energetic...I realise ckc in particular need very careful research and DNA tests due to health problems. Anyone with experience of these breeds to help me make my mind up....oh and tips to pursuade a less than convinced DH. In no rush as want to make contact with breeders in anticipation in the next year or so. DC will then be 4&6.

[RaveclawZia13]

Cavies are lovely dogs but have a lot of health conditions. Depending on what size you want an old English sheepdog is a lovely dog. Very friendly and sweet and fairly low energy.

[Inadither]

Sorry, Medium/small size. Old English would be too big I'm afraid but thanks for your thoughts. Did think of a smaller Lab but decided too big and not sure I could put up with the shedding. Cross breeds with poodle in them don't seem to have the health tests that a reputable breeder would have on pedigree dogs and may still inherit the same problems. With a mongrel you know less what you're getting temperament wise.

[TrionicLettuce]

If you're able to a visit to Discover Dogs at Crufts next year (March at the NEC in Birmingham) could be a good idea. You can meet examples of every breed recognised by the KC plus chat to breed enthusiasts and get a realistic picture of what the dogs are really like to live with.

[RaveclawZia13]

If you want a dog low energy I would stay away from working breeds although in general they tend to be very sociable. I have a shih tzu who is very friendly, bichon frise, Maltese, show cocker spaniel dogs like those tend to be friendly little dogs but only need around an hours exercise a day (show cocker possibly a bit more). I've noticed any dog mixed with poodle tend to be lovely.

[MayorMayhem]

My mini schnauzer is a gem!

[RaveclawZia13]

Also if you want a dog that doesn't really shed you are looking at a dog which will need regular grooming so need to factor that in.

[Inadither]

I think it's just the excess of shedding in a lab. I've known a few and the hairs just get everywhere. I do have allergies to some dogs too but I'm ok with most and I know non shedding is no guarantee but it might make it less likely. I'd of course spend time with them before committing. I've been ok with show cockers and know the breed. I've known one cavalier who was gorgeous and didn't make me sneeze. Golden retrievers set me off sneezing. I really want something that will keep up with a longer walk but at occasional times where I can't leave the house because the kids are in bed and DH away would be happy with a throw of a ball and mess around in the garden. Thanks all.

[Ylvamoon]

I have Tibetan Terriers - they are fab family pets. They are intelligent and lively, and have sweetest nature you can imagine. (That's my girl, my boy is more of a cheeky class clown....)
I would say, because they are very intelligent, you will be well advised to take your puppy to training classes. And continue with training past the basic puppy course. (Do the "good citizens dog" training as set out by the kennel club.)

[Inadither]

Thanks peeps. Still torn

[Penelope52]

I have a 9 yr old miniature schnauzer who's a total delight! I too am allergic to dogs but have no problem with her. She is very bright, not destructive and can be easily trained. She loves her walks but you don't have to spend hours taking her out. She's very adaptable and loves kids too. I never used to be into dogs until my dd persuaded us to get one and I can honestly say she's transformed me into an animal loving softie. She's very much part of the family. The only negative is that she can be a bit yappy at times; she loves looking out the window, barking at anything that moves. Good luck with your choice!

[arbrighton]

We got a purebred poodle- no shed, relevant tests and papers. Bright, trainable and is happy with one walk each day. She has to go out from the garden, at least 5 minutes up the road though, can tell!

As with Penelope's Schnauzer, she's a barker but love her to pieces- it helps that she is a little cuddle monster :)