Bichon, Cavalier, Maltese, shih tzu or whippet

[alessandrae83]

As in the title..can anyone tell me more about each of these breeds please? We are not first time owners. Some facts about us are

• we have 2 children aged 9 & 5
  

• we have a small yard but live close to parks and woods
  

• we previously had a laid back dog but he was so independent and we never saw him apart from when he wanted food. We would like a dog that would sit with us and enjoy a walk.
  

• someone would be at home most of the time.
  

• we live in a terraced house so I don't want a dog that barks obsessively
  

Thanks

[Kate123cl]

Bichon has my vote but I'm biased
My Bichon does bark when left alone though.
Fits the rest of your requirements x

[MardyMavis]

Shih tzus are independent so if you don't want that don't bother.

[Twinklyfaerieglade]

Maltese owner here. The love of my life. LOVEs walks but loves company even more

[lastqueenofscotland]

I grew up with cavs and they are wonderful, however a lot of health issues, also a lot of hair,

[PeggyIsInTheNarrative]

Whippets are lovely, quiet, clean, nondestructive, chilled.
Love a walk. Love a sleep.

But they can be independent as they were bred to work with people rather than for them like a gun dog. Ours are absolutely lovely to live with but they will wander off and enjoy their own company like a cat.

They have been bred to chase small furry things and so are terrible if they see a cat. If they chase a squirrel up a tree, that’s ok but hurtling off down the street after the neighbours cat is not OK so we have to keep them on a lead at all times in residential areas.

[PetraDelphiki]

Our Maltese is the soppiest dog ever...loves people, happy to do nothing all day! 2 30 minute walks is fine but will go further!

[katesmithl]

whippets are less likely to bark than the other breeds you mentionned. they're very affectionate and playful, and are generally great with kids. The only downside i'd say is that they need quite a lot of exercise! well it's not really negative... it's actually a good way to organise daily family activities and keep fit!

[Joiningthegossip]

We have a shihtzu, she’s very laid back & quiet. My parents have bichons and they yap yap yap yap!! Lhasa apso’s are also a nice breed