Breeds for the first-time owner.

[ravennr]

I'll point her in that direction.

I wish I could be more hands-on. This isn't a soon-to-be thing, just her trying to figure out what she's looking for and what she's suited to. It's harder when you only have the internet for communication, but I figured it's safe to ask and throw some ideas her way and steer her AWAY from these designer mixes.
She had posted a photo of an AKK pup and called it a Husky/Pom mix and said she wanted one. She understood completely after explanation though so she's not hard-headed, just new!

[Maxy24]

Does she want a more playful athletic small dog or a chill around the house, cuddle, maybe a short walk every day dort of dog? Shih Tzus are great for the average dog owner who doesn't want a particularly athletic dog, but if someone is planning on a more go out and do stuff dog Shih-Tzus are not the best, particularly in the summer. But chances are, if she's like most average dog owners, lazier is better and Shih Tzus are great. They are not particularly barky either, which is nice since many small breeds are vocal. They do need regular, professional grooming though. Pugs might be good too, but I don't know a ton about them.

[AdrianneIsabel]

Pug? Pug rescue may be a great place to start. Or Bostons... I love bostons.

[Kat09Tails]

I'd suggest a senior dog rescue. You know what you're getting into, are less likely to be overwhelmed, and the odds of getting a quiet housepet would be pretty good no matter what the breed.

[HayleyMarie]

Originally Posted by AdrianneIsabel

Or Bostons... I love bostons.

I dont think I have met a Boston I didnt like. They are such neat little dogs.

[Lilavati]

Rescues. Both breed and non breed. Honestly, a lot of rescues, if you told them you want a small, quiet, easy to manage dog will probably be able to find you a good match. Having a breed in mind might help, but its probably better to aim for temperament regardless of of breed; they don't always turn out the way they are supposed to!

[cliffdog]

Mini poodle. Smart, small, good companions. I had one as a kid. Very embarrassing to walk, but a great little dog.

[Dizzy]

Rescue.

[ravennr]

Originally Posted by cliffdog

Mini poodle. Smart, small, good companions. I had one as a kid. Very embarrassing to walk, but a great little dog.

Thanks for the suggestions, I'll pass them along.
Hopefully she will be easily persuaded against any byb designers.

[Aleron]

Does she want a puppy? Highly unlikely to find a toy breed puppy in rescue or a shelter. Besides, "Rescue/shelter dog" isn't a breed or something you can really tell her much about

TBH the toy "designer dogs" are often just as nice and cute as the purebred toys. A lot of the companion oriented toy breeds are suitable for a first time owner. What is her level of interest in grooming or having the dog groomed? Does she have look preferences?