Big dog or little dog? (Alamo, Alamo Heights: hotels, new house, pros and cons)

[nicholasa101]

What's your opinion-I want to surprise my kids with a dog, but I am not sure if I should get a big dog (lab,boxer) who will protect the kids and the house- and will also make much bigger messes in our new house during his "training" period. Or get a small dog who will be a good companion, and make much smaller messes! Any advice from big/small dog owners, what are some of the pros and cons? BTW- kids are young- 9 yrs old and 5yr old twins.

[millie61]

I have both a Boxer and 2 Pugs , would recommend a Pug for your family small dog but strong and playful - look them up and read about them

[Ms. 01 Snake]

I would agree PUG is the way to go. They are great companions.

[TXtrkgrl]

I have toy fox terriors. One weighs 3 lbs, one weighs 8 lbs. I love the fact that when they "mess" it is small. They are outside dogs so it really isn't a big deal but I still don't like "land mines" in my yard.
Jack Russel's are hearty, small dogs and very smart.
As far as protection, I like the fact that my small dogs will bark and let me know when someone is near and then I protect myself with my S&W

Good luck on your choice. If it is going to be an indoor dog I would definitely say to get a small one. But it really just depends on what you like.

[kevcrawford]

In most cases (but not all) big dogs tend to be more laid back with children. Kids can get very wound up sometimes and big dogs seem to handle that better. Every dog is different and there are some great, small dogs though.

[Chakapu]

I'm a big dog person. That's what I grew up with as a kid. We don't have a dog now just for practical reasons, but all our neighbors have mostly big dogs. My 19-month old LOVES them. She can play with them for hours. She likes the little dogs too (she loves all animals), but the little ones can get a bit hyper and overwhelming.

[rd2007]

I have a chow, chihuahua, and two chiweenies and will stay with smaller dogs from now on. I love my chow to death, but would never get another one. They are great protection, even though mine is more likely to roll over so you can scratch her belly, but they are also more maintenance and potentially much more of a mess. I can give the other three dogs a bath in half the time it takes just to bathe the chow and she hates hot weather, so we constantly have to get her shaved and that's $75.

Hopefully you have thought this all out. I don't want to preach, but too many dogs suffer from spur of the moment decisions. Also, I'd highly suggest taking one off someone's hands or getting one from the pound or a rescue. My chihuahua came from a coworker and the two chiweenies came from the Alamo Heights Kennel Club. They actually make you fill out an application with references and your vets phone number. It takes a few days and cost $100, but it's for a good cause and they make sure the animal is going to a good place.

[majormadmax]

We currently have two Westies (West Highland White Terriers) and have had a couple of them prior. Great small dog with a big dog attitude. Kid-friendly but very protective, playful and energetic but also likes to sleep quite a bit. Not too destructive but as they are terriers they may dig a little in the yard. But they are also smart so if you let them know that is wrong, they will usually stop. Just and all and out great dog...



Cheers! M2

[millie61]

I grew up with Boxers and love them but since adopting my first Pug have decided they are an easier dog to have. Far easier to travel with hotels etc and they are really good with children.
If you are looking for a puppy contact me as we got our second one after a lot of research from a breeder about 2 hours from SA. Daisy is just wonderful due to a good start in life, she is the fawn one.

[els565]

Also, don't assume a big dog will protect. As someone already said, it depends on the dog. I've had dogs in the past who would have probably let a thief in and pointed him in the right direction if it meant a treat or extra sleep!