First dog, Border Terrier or Havanese?

[ashmummy]

Hi,
We have been researching dog breeds for over a year. We have it narrowed down to 2 breeds. The Border Terrier. Which is my husband's top pick, and the Havanese, mine.

My husband and I have an 8 year old boy. We have 1 cat. I'm a stay at home mom so I'm home all day. We live in a condo, and have a park with trails next to us.

The dog would mostly be a companion for me since I'm home all day and my husband works long hours.

We are looking for a good family dog. Good with kids.
Not a lot of barking since we are in a condo.
Small size. Under 25lbs.
Moderate exercise needs.
Calm temperament.
Good dog for novice owners as this would be our first.

My husband prefers the looks of the Border terrier to the Havanese. Go anywhere, do anything kind of dog. Very adaptable, smart, trainable. Small but sturdy. Good with children.

As I'm mostly looking for a companion, and one good with a family I like the traits of the Havanese.

Ultimately my husband said he would support whatever decision I make and said he would be happy with whatever I choose. Trying to do my homework though so I get a breed that best fits our lifestyle.

Thanks. Honest opinions welcomed. Anyone experienced with either Borders or Havanese please chime in.

Have you thought about a west or a cairn? They need regular clipping but the coat isn't as much work as the havanese, and they are a "workmanlike" little dog (which your DH will like) that is usually safe with cats. We've had four westies and all have been wonderful with our cats; friend has had cairns and a cat with no problems (both breeds have the same origin). They will also be easier to get than a havanese, as they are more popular breeds.

Don't think that a havanese won't need much exercise because of it's small size - like most small breeds it will need a lot (same for any terrier you decide to get).

If you want something that needs less exercise, what about a cavalier?

Whatever you decide on, please be careful about your breeder - there are a lot of poorly bred dogs out there, and it is just heartbreak on a leash.

Borders are lovely dogs but are exceptionally stubborn. I've had 2 and both would live happily with our cats but would chase any other cat. Great characters though

My experience has been different to some others here - our vet recommended BTs as a great first dog and we have had two. Very different personalities but neither of them high exercise needs, both biddable (providing food offered ) and our current one is doing really well with training, recall, and fun obedience.

I went to a Terrier Day at Devon Dogs and they said BTs are less 'terrier-ish' than most other terrier breeds so often easier to train. I'm not familiar with the other breed you mention but I'd never have anything other than a BT now. We had a cat with our first one and he used to beat the dog up! Good luck whatever you choose.