Pet Lovers

Friendly Dog Breeds

Pet Lovers

Posted by: Amdor9

9th Jul 2010 07:45pm

I would like to get a small-medium dog but my husband wants a labrador as they are calm and quiet. What small breeds would be friendly yet not yappy and loud?

Comments 58

ozycash
  • 26th Oct 2021 11:53pm

It does not matter what breed the dog is, it depends on what you teach them!
A lab can be noisy and very aggressive, a pitbul can be calm and quiet.
You and your husband need to learn more about dogs before you start to own one otherwise you will not be a responsible pet owner!

Aliyaraya
  • 7th Oct 2021 09:28pm

American Staffys are great pets to have and I agree it is how you bring them up. If you are aggressive with them then they are aggressive with you.
My dog loves to talk to me and lets me know when he wants something because he becomes insistent. He nudges my arm when he wants me to pat him and say come on give me some attention.

Anonymous
  • 15th Oct 2012 08:14am

for family temperment etc get a boxer

Liz12
  • 10th Oct 2012 05:12pm

I have a chocolate labrador.. and he is definitely NOT calm and quiet.

Small dogs are generally yappy.
I suggest a cavoodle (cavalier x poodle) labradoodle (lab x poodle)
cavalier etc.
as they are small, typically timid and quiet dogs. They are also hypoallergenic as they have hair not fur. This however means they require grooming to prevent matting etc.

Anonymous
  • 29th Sep 2012 02:18pm

hello amdor The Maltese is friendly and often gets along well with other dogs and even cats. Just don't leave them alone too much, these companion dogs need human contact. Easily distinguished by their straight and long white coat; it may seem as though the Maltese has just stepped out of a doggie hair salon. However, over-coddling these adorable creatures can actually do them more harm them good, often leading to behavior disorders.

Anonymous
  • 22nd Sep 2012 10:35pm

I'm not a fan of small dogs- a lot of them have the 'small dog' syndrome, where they feel the need to over compensate for their size with agressive or hyper behaviour. I had a collie, and although it was one of the larger tri-coloured ones, there are smaller versions, the Shetland Sheepdog, which is equally as gentle, calm and loving in personality. They make great lifelong friends.

Anonymous
  • 3rd Sep 2012 11:22am

Hi,
My brother inlaw breeds American Staffys. We have a pup ourselves. She is the most beautiful dog ive ever met. She doesnt bark or yelp, the only time she was sooky was as a puppy her first night outside, since then she has been perfect, she has lots of energy when we take her to the park but other than that she is more than happy to laise around the yard and play with my partner. I dont care what people say about this breed, a dog is like their owner... you raise them to be gentle and calm and they will be, you raise a dog to be aggresive and thats what you will get. Any dog can turn on a human, not just particular breeds. My Abby wouldnt hurt a fly, she doesnt bark (unless she can hear me panic like the other night i can not see in the dark and was trying to find the front door, a few dogs were jumping on me so i panicked and started yelling "Get, get away" she could hear how scared i was and began to bark and stamp her feet, i have never seen her behave lik this, the dogs ran away and Abby went back to laying in her bed) i think that staffys are the most beautiful dogs, they are not to small that they will get hurt easily, or to big that they will jump a yard fence. Like i said i know alot of people dont lik this breed but any dog can be aggressive its just how you raise them. i once met a couple who had a chiauwa that hated people and would attack anyone it was horrible. I hope this has helped a but goodluck!!

bc
  • 1st Sep 2012 06:00pm

hi there - I have 2 dogs, a golden retriever and a border collie - neither of them are yappy (I find most smaller dogs are yappy not the larger ones) but i would have to agree with your husband. The golden's or the Lab's are the perfect dogs, they are loveable, do need walks but its a good way of getting exercise! - they are loyal and not overbearing or busy - depends what you want i guess but don't think because you get a smaller dog they will be easier to handle,- often times they are busier and more jumpy that the bigger breeds - good luck

mimm
  • 29th Aug 2012 10:12pm

hello there i have a labrador and he is my best friend he adores children cats other dogs ducks you name it i think he would befriend a bug if he could i know there big and they dribble and they eat anything but i do have a best friend goodluck remember the 10-15yrs hopefully together.

annie
  • 23rd Aug 2012 08:43am

hi we have a beautiful boxer dog that has been a part of our family since my children were little.She has now reached the age of 11 and a half and has just been the most friendliest and dedicated dog a family could have.Boxers have a lovely temperament and a also good watch dogs.I hope that this helps you decide on what breed of dog to decide on

Anonymous
  • 18th Aug 2012 11:22pm

I have a mini dacshund cross and she is great, not at all yappy and really placid and lovely, she's kind of like a cat dog

woodie
  • 4th Nov 2011 05:17pm

We've had many different breeds and known people with different breeds and even so called dangerous dogs can be friendly and sweet depending on personality and what they have been trained for. The only ones I have learnt not to trust are any with doberman in them as they can be nice for years and then suddenly turn on you. We were always told that. our Staffy/Ridgeback would turn on us one day because of his breed and the fact the previous owner abused him. He died just before he turned 16 and was lovable and non viscious to the end. I agree with the person that suggested the Dog Rescue to find them as they know what the best dog for you will be and you get to give an adorable animal a home. We have always taken in dogs that we previously owned and one of ours now is from there is lovable and a real character.

Anonymous
  • 26th Oct 2011 08:33pm

I had a Lab for ten years, he was the calmest most beautiful dog, he put up with two cats all over him and treated everyone with love and respect. Myhusband and I miss him very much. The only problem with them is they take a long time to grow up, and watch the chewing. Now we have a Scottie Westie x, he is a bundle of energy and the cats are his favourite toys, being ragdolls they are pretty placid but he even tries their patience.

Anonymous
  • 26th Oct 2011 08:26pm

I had a Lab for ten years, he was the calmest most beautiful dog, he put up with two cats all over him and treated everyone with love and respect. Myhusband and I miss him very much. Tha only problem with them is they take a long time to grow up, and watch the chewing. Hope you get what you can both love.

Cow Mum
  • 13th Oct 2011 05:08pm

Hey, We used to own a labrador/golden retriever cross and loved her dearly - Your husband is right, they are very calm and quiet dogs and are great with kids. After her passing it took us many years to decide to get another dog, as we still wanted a labrador but didn't really want such a big dog any more. We did alot of research and we got a Labradoodle - Labrador crossed with a miniature Poodle. He is about border collie size, but much finer in build and has the wonderful temperament of a labrador. Our three kids love him also and hence he is very spoilt! We would recommend a Labradoodle to anyone!

Raksha
  • 10th Aug 2011 03:40pm

I have always found that the way a dog behaves is more to do about how they are trained from a puppy. I have had small dogs, and large dogs. Every dog is different and although some breeds are noisy and bark a lot, they can be trained to keep quiet.
I think it's a great idea to check out your local RSPCA. They have all sorts of dogs, and they are Neutered, have had their injections and a behavoural assessment. My two dogs came from there, a Black Labrador and a Golden Retriever, both are fantastic dogs.

daisy
  • 3rd Aug 2011 05:44pm

I have a corgi cross from the rescue puppies. she is so sweet. I have had a corgi who was also great and javascript:document.myForm.submit();not so yappy. The Kelpie cross is also a good dog. I also have one of those

Anonymous
  • 3rd Aug 2011 09:27am

i've known labs that aren't calm and quiet. i think a lot of that comes down to the owners and training.

when i was born my parents got westies because they were a small breed but known to be good with children. even though they are small, they are rough dogs so they dont get hurt easily making them non-snappy.

i've had westies ever since than and have two now. they are no yippy like other small dogs can be. they are friendly, independent, smart loyal. a lot of people will describe them as a big dog in a small dogs body. they are a very lovably breed and i would definitely consider looking into them.

ciarns are another breed very similar to the westie and worth a look.

basically i think any terrier would make your husband happy. personally i would stay away from "designer" mixes.

nig
  • 18th May 2011 03:28pm

get a dog that does not shed hair great around the house and when you visit friends with a labrador your vacum cleaner will be working overtime
nig

bj
  • 22nd Apr 2011 11:08pm

Golden retrievers are the most lovable and friendly dog you can own,we have 2 and breed them.
They are super intelligent,clean,quiet and love to party when you are around them in addition the Goldies dont stray from the yard but at the same time are protective of thier owners.
They eat everything so be careful or they easily become obese

Skippy
  • 30th Mar 2011 09:35pm

Labradors are as unpredictable as any other breed. I own an english staffy bitch, she is the biggeat woos!! Bundy would lick you to death b4 she bit u!!

jonno78
  • 22nd Mar 2011 11:15am

Our Labrador was gorgeous loyal & gentle but FULL of energy mischief. He did calm down later in life. We now have a staffy which I DID NOT want as I heard so many terrible stories however he has turned out to be the most gorgeous dog we have ever owned. Placid & gentle with the kids even when they try to ride him like a horse! He loves exercise doesn't fret when left by himself and has never so much as dug a hole! Very loyal, bundles of fun - good luck!

Anonymous
  • 12th Mar 2011 03:38pm

The best breed of little dogs i have found to be yorkshire terriers[miniture] . I have had other breeds of little dogs and now have a yorkie love her to bits no yapping very loving , loves people not a mean bone in her

Wen
  • 11th Mar 2011 11:37am

I have a Maltese/ShihTze. My husband has never been a great lover of the smaller breed dogs but our little man was only here a couple weeks and had hubby wrapped around all 4 paws. What ever you get make sure you have them trained especially to be social with other dogs/humans. And remember you are the pack leader. I don't know where you live but there is an excellent school that works out of Perth and Brisbane called Pupi. You can google it and take a look

fi
  • 4th Mar 2011 08:15am

we have a staffy x corgi his name is stumpy as his legs are extra short this breed is excellent with other animals and kids he hardly ever barks but is very smoochy. being shorthaired he dosnt shed much. he is considered our baby even though he is 6 years old. i can more than reccomend this breed. good luck in convincing your husband on a smaller dog...they are worth it.

Anonymous
  • 3rd Mar 2011 01:01am

how exciting! you cant go wrong with a king charles! im a groomer and they are the sweetest breed! very cute, very calm! goodluck

Mizz
  • 2nd Mar 2011 08:08pm

I agree that you and your husband should go to the animal shelter and decide on a pet together. This way you both are happy with your choice, and you get to save a dog's life.

beetee
  • 28th Feb 2011 05:57pm

I'd love to know what breed you settled on. Wish I'd seen your post earlier....another option aside from organisations like RSPCA are independent rescue places. We 'adopted' our Pug from one such organisation - they very closely screen applicants to match the dog. The one think I would say about Pugs, and I don't know if this also applies to the cross breeds as well, but they shed A LOT OF HAIR. More than many long haired dogs because they actually have a double coat. They also like company so if you can't be there with them much they will become depressed.

Anonymous
  • 12th Feb 2011 11:44am

we have a beagle named Sofie. She is gentle (fantastic for kids), small and playful and extreemly intelligent. She is about knee-height and weights about 9 kilos. She loves walking but if you miss a day or two it doesn't matter. and she is loyal. the only downside is when we are off our property we have to keep her on her lead as, being a scent hound, if she picks up a scent she becomes so focused we cannot get her attention back if she is off-leash.

jillidee
  • 10th Jan 2011 06:49pm

You could go for a med size Labradoddle! A great combination as they don't shed hair, but have the characterisitcs of both breeds...making for a very intelligent, loyal breed

Anonymous
  • 24th Dec 2010 01:29am

Hi I have a bitsa, she is crossed by a Germanshepard and something else can not remember but she is not a small dog or a large dog she is roughly medium size dog, she has a GREAT personality and adores children. I have too say she has almost been the best dog, I owned a Blue Heeler cross, she was sweet lovely dog. My I love my dog we have now even thought I muck about with my daughter that she my dog, but really the dog is her, as it does what she asks, the dog is 3 and half years old and my daughter is 4

LokiAura
  • 8th Dec 2010 03:11pm

I was always more of a cat person but rescued a maltese x silky from being shot by a framer when he and his wife were moving. He was 7 when I got him so I didnt have the puppy stage to deal with. I only had him 2 years before I lost him to Cancer :( I was so devastated by the loss I got the shock of my life when a month after my 21st b'day I was given an adorable Maltese pup. She's now nine years old and the most loyal and faithful companion ever. She never really went through the diggin holes in the yard/chewing on things. I take her to work with me and she loves going for walks/drives.

Anonymous
  • 8th Dec 2010 11:25am

I think the key here is Training, even a large dog can get yappy. My favourite small dog is the cocker spaniel

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Cocker_Spaniel

They seem quieter and friendlier than any of the other little dogs ( ours as a child seemed to have more of a large dog mentality/personality).

smily
  • 4th Dec 2010 05:56pm

maltese is great dog l had a female for ten years and she was was a chlid n there breed r gd if u want as family member as they r very protective if some strange com to your homs it would warn u b only if thy sense a stranger and r very lovable as indoor pet as my was gd luck

smily
  • 4th Dec 2010 05:56pm

maltese is great dog l had a female for ten years and she was was a chlid n there breed r gd if u want as family member as they r very protective if some strange com to your homs it would warn u b only if thy sense a stranger and r very lovable as indoor pet as my was gd luck

grandmahawk
  • 3rd Dec 2010 01:31pm

Your husband is with the majority of dog owners. Labradors are the most popular breed of family dogs worldwide. By 2.5 times the next most popular.
We have an adorable golden Lab. Tell hubby to make sure it has sound hips as that is a weak spot with most bigger dogs.
Labs are the most loving of dogs, but they do not guard the house very well. Ours gives an occasional deep-throated bark, but mainly wants to love us and be loved in return
That sound you hear is our blood pressure going down :)

Anonymous
  • 1st Dec 2010 12:16pm

I have never met a calm young Labrador in my life and I work in the animal industry. Whatever dog you get it is important to train it. and socialize it well from a young age. A well trained / socialized Labrador will make a good addition into any family, however an untrained adolescent lab is a nightmare. Why don't you go to you local animal shelter and get a cross breed dog. Many of the dogs are small to medium size and many have gone past there puppy size.

Hummers
  • 30th Nov 2010 02:15pm

Hi I own a Germans Shepard Cross and she is a medium size dog and is one of the best Dogs I have owned. My first one was a Blue heeler cross they are excellent dogs as well.

Roseglen
  • 17th Nov 2010 06:00pm

I have a maltese shitzu dog and he is such a lovely loyal friendly little dog and only weighs 6kg. He doesnt shed but does need some clipping.Great around children . I also have aJack Russell cross and he is the gentlest lapdog you would ever want.
I have had Caveliers and they are a pretty gentle little dog but are prone to heart problems.

Bulwinkle
  • 17th Nov 2010 12:13pm

I have a miniature Dachshund. She weighs approx 5 kg. They have the most adorable personalities and temperaments. Usually very quiet and reserved also. Would highly recommend.

Anonymous
  • 17th Nov 2010 10:45am

Dogs are only as good as there breeding and there follow up training. We have cocker spaniels and whippets and they all get on with each other because they know who the ALPHA person is. I suggest that you meet the parents of any dog that you decide to buy to get an idea of there temperement as that can be passed on to the offspring.

Bones
  • 11th Sep 2010 08:51am

I have a chi/jack russel cross. Small tan dog whi is not yippy,yappy or nippy. Very friendly and so loveable. Also very easy to train. Plays soccer, brings his dinner bowls when he thinks it is dinner time and loves to play ball.

Family friend has a Labrador and although she is a beautiful dog she has had one thing after the other and has a smelly skin condition which requires constant Vet visits and medications etc. They have spent sooooooooo much money on the dog. This dog is like having having a very sick child around twenty four seven. My advice... Admire someone elses Lab and get yourself one that is small, short hair and loveable and trainable.

jatz50
  • 23rd Aug 2010 05:09pm

So what did you end up getting?
Labradors can be a bit wild at times. Just depends on the bringing up of them in the family home. Friends had one, and Goldie was just terrible. Even basic training went out the window and boy could Goldie gulp her food down.
The guide dog Labradors are completely different for some reason, I think they pick the good crop from the litters.

shylady
  • 17th Nov 2010 09:45am
So what did you end up getting?
Labradors can be a bit wild at times. Just depends on the bringing up of them in the family home. Friends had one, and Goldie was just terrible. Even basic...

It's an individual thing, just as all people are different. We have a 13-month old female Labrador "pick of the litter" from our Guide Dog breeders, and she is one boisterous 32kg bundle of energy! But all guide dog puppies are placed with puppy carers for at least a year before they undertake formal training, and our job is to teach her the basics and get her socialised. They are marvelous dogs, but PLEASE don't expect puppies to be calm!

Amdor9
  • 24th Aug 2010 08:00pm
So what did you end up getting?
Labradors can be a bit wild at times. Just depends on the bringing up of them in the family home. Friends had one, and Goldie was just terrible. Even basic...

Thanks for all the great ideas. We are going to wait a little bit before getting a puppy. Lots of bills at the moment.

Daisey
  • 20th Aug 2010 08:51pm

My husband & I raise puppies for the Guide Dog assoc. & find these dogs, mainly Labradors are always friendly & loving if they are handled, loved & taught from the time you get one. Some are more boisterous than others, but that can be controlled. Not many of them bark a lot unless they are bored or on their own time. They seem to love being of use to their owners.

wildthing2069mv
  • 18th Aug 2010 04:02pm

I think Dachhounds are beautiful dogs with a great personality without the yappy barking all the time.

Chris
  • 17th Aug 2010 11:08pm

Hi, if you are still looking at getting a dog, just thought I'd let you know that we were in exactly the same situation, but our compromise was a Cavoodle. I've never had a dog before, and didn't actually want one, but I'm very happy with our dog. A Cavoodle is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle. We've had her for a year and she's been a wonderful family dog. Small to medium in size, rarely barks, doesn't moult, isn't expensive to maintain, very friendly and loyal. I got her from a breeder where she was raised in a home environment. Can't speak highly enough of her. Good luck with your decision.

Berna
  • 3rd Aug 2010 12:17am

a small dog breed i would definitely recommend is the French Bulldog. they are not yappy, very friendly and easy to take in the car, being small dogs. They require exercise, as any dog should have, however, are not high maintenance in that area. do not consider one if you want a dog to be left in the backyard for hours on end. (not that any dog should be in my opinion) They are very people orientated, and love to be near you at all times.
They are known as the clowns of the dog world, and are little characters. The only downfall? They are not cheap! Do not be tempted to go to a 'puppy farm' Bad or inter breeding for this breed is not good.
All in all, they are lovely and interesting little dogs. ps if you get a do, and I hope you do, read 'Cesar's Way' by Cesar Millan. it is an eye opening book on owning dogs.

devylkitten
  • 28th Jul 2010 08:47pm

I have a pug x cavalier and he is from a reputable breeder but has long ears and by no means a long snout. Although my pugalier's nose isnt as squashed in as a purebred pug, I have never seen a pugalier with a long nose?! They are indeed a gorgeous dog, but they aren't a low maintenance dog. They require lots of attention and are very social. They can be a little bit dominant too. Pure Cavalier's are a more placid breed if you like a calmer dog - although require more grooming.

Mazzs1
  • 15th Jul 2010 02:49pm

I think you should go to your local animal shelter with your husband and have a look to see if there is a dog you both like. Also note the amount of animals there that are in there due to irresponsible pet owners. And maybe you can save a life and give it a loving family.

simla
  • 21st Sep 2012 12:26am
I think you should go to your local animal shelter with your husband and have a look to see if there is a dog you both like. Also note the amount of animals there that are in there due to...

hi Mazzs1, while i sympathize with your sentiment, i'd like to add that a lot of dogs in the pound are there because they are untrained , and you should be prepared to put a lot of time into training, especially the barking, which, if it didn,t do when it was left there, it certainly would know how to bark when it leaves. i used to be a kennel maid for a boarding kennel. incessant barking is par for the course! as for a quiet breed, what about a retired racing greyhound, they are past their "puppy antics" and make quiet, gentle pets. also, on the disease front, they are tough as. they are bred by 'survival of the fittest' method,over the generations there's been a strict rule, no weaklings allowed. they would have been culled out long ago. i had one that lived till 12yo.a very smart dog,great personality.

simla
  • 21st Sep 2012 12:25am
I think you should go to your local animal shelter with your husband and have a look to see if there is a dog you both like. Also note the amount of animals there that are in there due to...

hi Mazzs1, while i sympathize with your sentiment, i'd like to add that a lot of dogs in the pound are there because they are untrained , and you should be prepared to put a lot of time into training, especially the barking, which, if it didn,t do when it was left there, it certainly would know how to bark when it leaves. i used to be a kennel maid for a boarding kennel. incessant barking is par for the course! as for a quiet breed, what about a retired racing greyhound, they are past their "puppy antics" and make quiet, gentle pets. also, on the disease front, they are tough as. they are bred by 'survival of the fittest' method,over the generations there's been a strict rule, no weaklings allowed. they would have been culled out long ago. i had one that lived till 12yo.a very smart dog,great personality.

simla
  • 21st Sep 2012 12:07am
I think you should go to your local animal shelter with your husband and have a look to see if there is a dog you both like. Also note the amount of animals there that are in there due to...

hi Mazzs1, while i sympathize with your sentiment, i'd like to add that a lot of dogs in the pound are there because they are untrained , and you should be prepared to put a lot of time into training, especially the barking, which, if it didn,t do when it was left there, it certainly would know how to bark when it leaves. i used to be a kennel maid for a boarding kennel. incessant barking is par for the course! as for a quiet breed, what about a retired racing greyhound, they are past their "puppy antics" and make quiet, gentle pets. also, on the disease front, they are tough as. they are bred by 'survival of the fittest' method,over the generations there's been a strict rule, no weaklings allowed. they would have been culled out long ago. i had one that lived till 12yo.a very smart dog,great personality.

kelcmini
  • 11th Jul 2010 01:11pm

Hi there, i have two dogs, they are a Pug x King Charles Cavalier. They ae about 5-7kilos and are very loving, energetic smart attractive dogs. If you do decide to get this breed of dog, you should not go to backyard breeder as both of these dogs have genetic defects. The cross breed removes the problems, and makes them a harty, health rebust dog, with a long nose so no breathing problems and short ears so no ear problems either. Hope you find this info useful and best of luck with finding you new family member.

mika08
  • 6th Oct 2012 11:38am
Sorry but I find it amazing that people still believe that crossing 2 breeds makes a 'robust' dog. This is simply rubbish. Like the current facination with "oodles". They are not a breed they...

Really!! I do agree it can be the luck of the draw but many vets have told me cross breeds are usually healthier and stronger. Our two "mutts" have been strong healthy dogs with great personalities - I would never consider a pure breed. If people are prepared to pay for a particular cross breed, well then it's up to them.

gdobe
  • 1st Sep 2010 05:45pm
Hi there, i have two dogs, they are a Pug x King Charles Cavalier. They ae about 5-7kilos and are very loving, energetic smart attractive dogs. If you do decide to get this breed of dog, you should...

Sorry but I find it amazing that people still believe that crossing 2 breeds makes a 'robust' dog. This is simply rubbish. Like the current facination with "oodles". They are not a breed they are simply a mutt that potentially (and usually do) have the same issues as the breeds they are bred from. Just because you cross a poodle with a lab does not mean that all the puppies are fine for kids with allergies..... Not all pug x KCC's have short ears, or a longer nose. It is 50/50. It just means that the backyard breeders and puppy farmers will charge you twice the cost of a purebred dog. If you buy a pupply from a Reponsible Breeder they will have known bloodlines and testing done for conditions common with their breed.
I have a staffy x cattle dog (rescue) who has bad joints and breathing issues. She has the staffy soft palate, the drive of a cattle dog so will chase a ball for hours, but the breathing of a staffy so it causes her to pass out.. Her staffy joints can not keep up with the cattle dog drive so although she is quite a young dog she moves like a geriatric. Cross breeds more ROBUST - Load of rubbish. It is the luck of the draw.

Amdor9
  • 13th Jul 2010 12:52pm
Hi there, i have two dogs, they are a Pug x King Charles Cavalier. They ae about 5-7kilos and are very loving, energetic smart attractive dogs. If you do decide to get this breed of dog, you should...

Thanks. Will look into it.

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