Do Westies make good family dogs? (shih tzu, allergic, terriers, breeders)

[GypsySoul22]

We're kicking around the idea of getting a dog. It's just the three of us (me, husband and son age 9). My son is well behaved, but a bit scared of dogs, so we think now we are 'allowed' to have one we may get a small dog.

I want a rescue dog and saw a Westie mix might be available. What sort of dog are they? I think Westies are so adorable but I want something that is not going to nip my son. (or us!).

We're pretty active people (go to parks every weekend). I walk every day and would be able to bring it to the local park (or my husband would). What do you guys think of this breed?

If not, what's a good small dog for a family? (we're only allowed a smallish dog due to our lease).

[kelly3120]

I don't know a thing about them ...sorry

We have a mini Aussie who loves kids( I always say I need to rent a kid to play w/ him) and doesn't heard them ....but he needs more then a walk in the park for sure

I hear papillons are great dogs but I don't know much about them either

[titaniummd]

Originally Posted by GypsySoul22

We're pretty active people (go to parks every weekend). I walk every day and would be able to bring it to the local park (or my husband would). What do you guys think of this breed?

If not, what's a good small dog for a family? (we're only allowed a smallish dog due to our lease).

I have read numerous books recently since I am in the same situation.

Westies are wonderful dogs and have an excellent temperament. However, with poor breeding they have had negative qualities.

Westie Profiler

If you want predictability, consider a purebred dog - especially, given your living arrangements (it's you or the dog).

A great couple of books are "Paws to Consider" and "Adoptable Dog".

There are so many factors in choosing one (I have taken 5 weeks) and I am still wondering if the Rescue will give us a chance:

Size
Temperament
Shedding issues
Grooming issues
Energy level
Dog Health issues
Exercise requirements
Caveats about specific breeds
Male v Female
Age: Puppy, Young versus Old

There are a couple of sites that are helpful:
Before you get your puppy & basic pet care. - First Time Dog Owner and Basic Questions - Dog Forums - Your #1 Pet Forums for all dog breeds and needs.

Find the Perfect Dog, Dog Search, Dogs broken down into Search Categories, Which Breed is right for you, Breed Search

Whatever you do, don't get one from a pet shop - you're only perpetuating a growing problem of pet overpopulation:

CAMPAIGNS | LCA - Last Chance for Animals (http://www.lcanimal.org/cmpgn/cmpgn_012.htm - broken link)

Stop Puppy Mills

Your alternative is to consider reputable breeders or a pet rescue (www.petfinder.com): (broken link)

WHWTCA Breeder Listing
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I am working on getting a Bichon Frise from a Rescue. Otherwise, I will search for a Shih Tzu.

[kelly3120]

if you have a child I would push that you get a baby or young dog rescue, as you don't know the background of a older dog. Our guy was 8-9 months(young) when we rescued him and we had our hands full. I think rescue is awesome and we always will rescue but the first few months can be full of surprises.

[gardener34]

Westies are a nice size. But like to bark. Be prepared to do bark training. And cause they are white, they can get fleas and can be allergic to flea meds.

[Valerie C]

Westies are great, and are one of the better terriers to have with kids. However, some can have a pretty high prey-drive (keep them on leash at the park, unless it's a fenced dog park. Also, remembering back to my vet-tech days, Westies seemed to be very prone to food and environment allergies. Just something to keep in mind... They are cute cute cute!

[GypsySoul22]

Thanks for all replies!

[kelly3120]

Originally Posted by gardener34

Westies are a nice size. But like to bark. Be prepared to do bark training. And cause they are white, they can get fleas and can be allergic to flea meds.

I know fleas are attracted to white ...is this your reasoning for saying this?

[maggiekate]

the Bichon Frise is a great dog, also the australian terrier. if you use frontline you
should be o k flea wise.

[elmosworld893]

a westie has is a very active and loving dog. however, it has some problems. when they're left home and unattended they can be trouble makers and destruct the house. they LOVE to play and dig so put a invisible fence up! just a regular fence wouldnt work. westies are VERY intelligent and intelligent enough to dig holes under fences to escape. male westies are more outgoing and active and females are relaxing and easy going. both will be loving though.

hope this helped

caroline