Hi everyone, I know there are a lot of dog owners here in BBI so thought I'd reach out...
I love dogs and have been thinking about getting/adopting/rescuing one for quite some time.
I think I've reached the stage in my life where I'm ready - I'm getting married early next year, and my fiancee will be moving in.
I've always loved dogs, and am confident in my ability to train, take care of, and accept this (major) responsibility.
For the next year or so, I live and work in the same building - so if needed, I can go downstairs and check in on my dog, take it out for a walk, etc.
My building also is full of other dog owners, so I know there are plenty of dog walkers/caretakers around if needed.
Finally, my mother who lives in Manhattan is a former dog owner, so if I'm traveling/out of town she will be there to take care of it.
So! Finally getting to my questions:
1) Being that I'm in a 700 sf apartment in Manhattan, what are some breeds that are suited best for this type of environment? I.e. something that doesn't need a ton of room/space to run around? I've researched that bulldogs, boston terriers, and pugs are great options for this...
2) Given the space constraints, I'd need a dog that is not as "hyper," and is content lounging around the house and doesn't need a ton of company (no way I can handle/fit another dog in the house). Are there any additional breeds that I should be exploring?
3) Is there a particular time of the year I should get a dog and start training? I'm assuming summer is best? I also have a house in Long Island where we go in the summers, the dog will have a lot more room to run around/play there on the weekends...
4) As a first time owner should I be looking at a puppy? Or an older dog that perhaps is in a foster home and slightly trained?
5) Any breeds to stay away from or have huge medical issues? I know bulldogs can have hip problems and pugs with their breathing...
6) Any other tips/advice for someone like me
Thanks!
My wife and I have rescued a few greyhounds. I know they would seem to be counter-intuitive - a large dog living in a small space - but they are extremely mellow creatures, and only need a little exercise every day. They are major couch potatoes, and sleep up to 16 hours a day.
Good luck in whatever you choose, getting a dog is a great decision.
We had her in an apartment while we were in transition and she was great in limited space.
Although the French Bulldog doesn't have the shedding issue as the pug does and is only a fraction of the size of a Bulldog, which would benefit you in your 700 sq ft apartment.
Although the French Bulldog doesn't have the shedding issue as the pug does and is only a fraction of the size of a Bulldog, which would benefit you in your 700 sq ft apartment.
I've heard Frenchies can be quite hyper around other dogs and chew up a lot of stuff around the house - has this been your experience?
You MUST still go through all the obedience classes just to bond with your dog as well as learn how to handle a dog the right ways.
If you can't find what you want from a rescue, which is damn near impossible. By all means get what you think is the best fit for you.
Good luck. We want to see pictures.
Quote:
The breed historically is a mix between Bulldogs and Pugs, which are two dogs great for small spaces and just like to lounge around with you on the couch.
Although the French Bulldog doesn't have the shedding issue as the pug does and is only a fraction of the size of a Bulldog, which would benefit you in your 700 sq ft apartment.
I've heard Frenchies can be quite hyper around other dogs and chew up a lot of stuff around the house - has this been your experience?
Two family members currently have had Frenchies for the past 3-5 years. They are hyper around other dogs but in isolation situations are very calm. Didn't sound like you might be getting two dogs yet, so that shouldn't be an issue. As far as chewing, normal puppy training needs to be done when teething but both have outgrown it for the most part. Although one will destroy any slipper if left unattended. LOL
+1 if you want to get married.
Perfect dog for an apartment... She's perfectly content hanging in the AC...or chilling on the deck when it cools off.
Such a sweet goofy personality...you can tell when she wakes up crabby or in a good mood...it's totally cracks me up. And she has a face only a mother could love...
If you do opt for an English Bulldog...be ready to be woken up by snoring...she wakes my ass up with her snoring. Part of the breeds charm I guess...
She's 7 I think...her hips are starting to go...which makes using the stairs for bathroom breaks a bit difficult.
The one and only MAJOR negative...the shedding is insane. I have not put away my vacuum for 6 months. I have to sweep and vacuum daily. Even when diligent...I still find dog hair everywhere.
They have breath that could knock a buzzard off a shit house door...
That said...great dog. Other than the shedding...I'm going to miss her when she goes home.
And I don't like dogs...
We rescued one from Louisiana. They flew it up to Boston where we picked it up. So you are not limited to one already in NYC. And like I said, they represent the dogs very honestly. We got one that just lays around and doesn't bark but is very sweet. Low maintenance.
Sounds like you've given this a lot of thought. You'll be a great owner to some lucky dog.
Excellent dogs and don't need a lot of roaming room.
Both needy and both are snuggle bugs.
Currently own an Australian Shepperd.
Would never recommend that in your situation.
Just know the two dogs I recommended will fall in love with you and they will wait at the door all day for you. So if you want to go out for drinks after work and aren't a home-body I would not suggest them as a match.
It's just cruel to get a dog that requires a consistient amount or affection and attention and deny them.
Excellent dogs and don't need a lot of roaming room.
Both needy and both are snuggle bugs.
Currently own an Australian Shepperd.
Would never recommend that in your situation.
Just know the two dogs I recommended will fall in love with you and they will wait at the door all day for you. So if you want to go out for drinks after work and aren't a home-body I would not suggest them as a match.
It's just cruel to get a dog that requires a consistient amount or affection and attention and deny them.
Shih Tzu and Yorkie was the call here with similar requirements, and couldn't make up our minds, so we went with a hybrid (that's what you call a mutt when a puppy mill wants to make top dollar). Our shorkie seems to be made for NYC, the only thing he's missing is a metrocard. I'd stop short of saying he's needy but the little fucker will take all the attention you can give him and still want more. He's very chill though, which was important because my wife was not a dog person and would probably have had a hard time with a high strung dog.
Doesn't shed, not particularly hard on those with allergies (no such thing as a hypoallergenic breed, but he's not bad when we have visitors with allergies). Likes his exercise but won't get nutty if he goes a day or two without more than his usual walks.
You'll be surprised what you spend on a dog annually. Saving one not only makes you feel good, but the dogs are so appreciative. I can tell you this, as a Veteran with issues, they give me a reason to get up in the morning. Good luck with your search.
1) Yes, I'm definitely trying to get my fiancee involved. She's also a first time owner and is not a big "dog person," hence our looking for a dog with the aforementioned characteristics.
2) Will definitely rescue a "younger" dog, but not a puppy. I don't think we have the skills/time yet to train a puppy.
3) Obedience classes a must. I can stay committed to this
4) We will stay away from the more "needy" dogs as mentioned in this thread. Both of us are working professionals so no one will really be around the house
5) Going to narrow down our search to bulldogs (both english and french), boston terriers, and shi tzus
When you have a well trained dog, and more importantly, a well trained owner, you and your companion will immensely enjoy your time together.