Which breed should I get ?

[Shaggy]

Hello everyone !
Soon I will be living alone in app 30 square meters(323 square feet) and I would like to get one dog to at least have some company since my parents are divorced and have their own lives(kinda long story).

Because of school and work afterwards, I wont have much time to spend with dog. Ofc i would take him about 3 times a day for a walk and stuff but when im gone, he should be able to take care of himself for at leats 5-6 hours if its possible in any way. Intelligent enough for not pooping and peeing in apartment and not crying for my absence.

First thought was Pug, but they dont seem very inteligent and probably full of energy. I wouldnt like fighter dogs like Pitbulls, terriers or similar cause they easily get overprotective and I dont have experience to train them. I took quiz and got the hot dog one(Besset or similar hound). He is cute but i dont think it will work out. I also got Mastiff and Clumber spaniel.

Anyway, what do you guys think ? What do you reccomend ?

 

[teacuptiger]

What about a nice senior dog from the shelter? I think that would work really nicely for your situation.

 

[*blackrose]

A retired racing Greyhound sounds like a fantastic fit.

The intelligence of a dog really doesn't have any influence on whether or not a dog barks, or messes in the house, or is non destructive...it is their personality, training, and management.

Most grown dogs will be just fine being left alone for 5-6 hours.

All puppies, regardless of breed, are going to be active (borderline hyper), mess on the floor, bark at things, cry when youre gone, and need to be let out every hour or so to potty. Those are just...puppy things. So, in your situation, I'd avoid a pup.

And, since a pup won't be a very good fit, the breed becomes less important since you'll be adopting an adult dog, with a known personality/behavior set. I'd get in touch with a rescue and see what they have available. An older adult (4+years) or senior would be a good place to start looking. Look for a dog that is already housebroken/crate trained, isn't highly active, and would be a good companion.

Alternatively, have you thought about a cat at all? Many cats have AWESOME personalities. The right cat can be taught to walk on a leash, play fetch, and are just generally awesome.

 

[JacksonsMom]

I would definitely say retired Greyhound.

 

[GoingNowhere]

All of the above recommendations came to my mind, as did a cat instead of a dog. Cats are great company, but many are more independent and require less time than the average dog. An outgoing cat could still be leash trained/trick trained. Plus, they are generally more innately quiet/clean than a dog would be. That said, greyhounds are known for being notoriously calm, clean, and quiet dogs.

 

[Julee]

Seconding both a retired racing greyhound or an older shelter dog

 

[Shaggy]

First of all, thanks for responses

My grandmother had cats and they were like, you just see them when they are hungry. No love, not playful and certainly not loyal. Maybe just bad luck I guess.

I think I will pick one from shelter since I dont have much money. Is there any other dog that would fit my situation ? Greyhounds look nice but highly doubt that he will be available.

What do you think of Bulldogs and Pugs or Labradors ?

 

[Ozfozz]

First of all, thanks for responses

I think I will pick one from shelter since I dont have much money. Is there any other dog that would fit my situation ? Greyhounds look nice but highly doubt that he will be available.

What do you think of Bulldogs and Pugs or Labradors ?

Instead of getting hung up on a single breed, if you're going to the shelter why not just keep an open mind and choose the dog that fits best with you?
Not all dogs are typical of their breed.
I don't know much about pugs and bulldogs specifically, but younger labs tend to be higher energy.

I'd recommend seeing what the shelters have got for an older/more mature dog that is around the size and energy range that you're looking for.


Be aware though that for the first little while, any dog is liable to mess in the house. Even typically housebroken dogs can have a lapse in their training when in a new home with a new owner. Patience will be key there.

 

[*blackrose]

You can check www.petfinder.com for dogs that need home in your area. Greyhound rescues are pretty popular, so while you may not be able to find a Greyhound at a local shelter, there are probably quite a few needing homes in your area.

Pugs are pretty active indoors. They're a brachy breed, so they snort/snore/have issues with heat. They shed a ton. They tend to be "stubborn".

Bulldogs...I would not recommend one for a first time owner, simply due to the amount of health concerns they have. Yeasty skin, allergies, breathing problems, joint issues, ear infections, skin infections...they are just a high maintenence breed. And one from a reputable breeder, where you have a less chance of encountering the health probkems, is going to be $$$$$.

A senior Labrador would work out okay, but young Labs are INSANE. Wouldn't be a good fit at all.

 

[Shaggy]

I've checked petfinder but unfortunately it doesnt exist in Europe, Croatia in particular. But there were other sites and plenty of other dogs. Most common are some mixes with Labradors, German Sheppard and Golden Retrievers. Didnt find one Greyhound, maybe because dog races arent very popular in Croatia.

Anyway, ill keep you in touch with my choice and thanks for all the informations. If you would like to add any other reccomendation, I highly appreciate it.