Expert: Emily - 5/17/2004

Question
Hi I am hoping you can help. I currently live in a an aprtment and will be for the next couple of years. Also I will be beginning to have children int he next couple of years and I am looking for a puppy but am not sure which brred would be the best. I would ideally like a toy dog that is under 10 pounds.

I was also wondering if you were familar with Imperial Shih Tzus and what your thoughts were on them. Thank you very much!

Answer
Jaclyn,
I am so sorry for not getting back sooner but I had no access to a computer. Imperial Shih Tzus are the same as regular Shih Tzus so don't be mistaken(whatever someone will tell you). If you want a small dog that can handle children I would go with a Pug or Jack Russel Terrier. They both have thier drawbacks of course. A pugs being that you must clean their face dialy, they aren't very active, and they don't tolerate heat very well. A JRTs being that he may have TOO much energy, they can be harder to train(they have a mind of thier own) and a good one is very hard to find. As long as (for the Pug) you don't mind a little grooming, a dog that likes to laze around, and prefers shade then a Pug may suit you very well. Or if you like more energy, don't mind putting in extra energy yourself training, and don't mind spending the extra time to find a good breeder with good dogs, then the JRT may be for you. As for the Shih Tzu, if you planning on kids, I'd advise a no. I love these dogs but do you really think you'll have the time to groom one? I'm pregnant myself so I could see it: a crying baby and a matted dog, not good at all. Also they are more fragile than a pug or a JRT who both could handle a toddler(and they don't have as much hair to pull). Also, a Shih Tzu of good quality is really hard to find. Thanx for you question, and again sorry for not getting back sooner. I you need any more help feel free to ask, I will be here to answer.

Emily
P.S.Please don't look in or ask the employees of a petstore, if you want to know why, feel free to ask.