I've always bought dogs from breeders, and two of our cats from pet stores. I know, my bad. I want to adopt, but I don't know how to go about it. I want a small dog, no more than 10 pounds with short hair. I don't like hyper dogs. I know two people that have Jack Russell terriers (Eddie from Cheers), and those dogs are too hyper. I'm looking for a lazy dog, lol. Well, a dog that's low-key, a lap dog. I'd like even a mixed breed. I also have two cats to consider. I'd like a dog that's a year or so old and is housebroken. Am I asking for too much?

I could never go to the local pound to pick out a dog because I can't see all those animals in cages with their sad eyes. I'd want to take them all home. I'd appreciate any advice from someone who knows about this process.

I would very much suggest getting an animal from the local animal shelter. Google what kind of dog you would like before you get it, check for health issues, temperment, allegies etc... I got a Shih Tzu and they are kind of troublesome. :wave:

I would very much suggest getting an animal from the local animal shelter. Google what kind of dog you would like before you get it, check for health issues, temperment, allegies etc... I got a Shih Tzu and they are kind of troublesome. :wave:
Thanks. My mother also had a Shih Tzu. She was a sweetie named Tiffany, but she was hyper and a bit of a barker too. We have two Persian cats now. We bought that breed because of their gentle temperment. They sleep when we do, even if it's a nap, lol. I'm looking for a dog with a cat temperment, if that's possible. This is a lazy house, just me and my husband and the two cats. The dog has to fit in, and not turn the place upside down.

I have a Maltese/Shih Tzu mix, and he is incredibly hyper, and a quite a big barker. Though, my stepdad's niece has a Shih Tzu/Lhasa Apso mix and it is the calmest dog I've ever seen. I used to have a Lhasa Apso and he was also quite calm.

We adopted both of our cats from the local Petsmart. I know you mentioned you don't want to see animals in cages, so Petsmart might not be the best choice.

One of the nice things about cats is that they don't bark. I like dogs, but the barking gets so annoying. Of course if you're able to find a dog that doesn't bark much then that's a good dog. :)

I hope whatever decision you make works out. I know you would like to get a dog. You have a good point thoug that you have two cats and a dog would need to fit in with the cats. Sorry I can't be of any help.

I know what you mean about wanting to take all the dogs from the shelter home-lol But really, those are the dogs that really need a good home. Maybe just go in and check it out. You will know the dog for you when you see it.

Also, the people who care for the dogs will know which ones are laid back and which one aren't.

Anyway, I know you and Lou will be great parents to your new addition.. Good Luck!!

Going to the Shelter and checking them out is the best way to adopt. I know it seems like it would be hard to see all of those animals, but finding the right dog for you makes it all worth while. Like Bandito said, the people who work at the Shelter can tell you which dogs are more low key.

The breeds that are smaller that tend to be more laid back are Basset Hounds, Pekingese, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Dachshunds and Greyhounds. I know Greyhounds are a bit bigger, but they are total couch potatoes, and never bark. Rescuing one from the track is always a great experience :)

Good luck Janice.