Dogs and small furries

LizD_2

Does anyone have a dog and also small furries (particularly Guinea Pigs or rabbits)? I'm interested in people's experiences of keeping them together.

I am hoping to get a dog in the future, but already have two Guinea Pigs. I've done some research and I'm really keen to get one of these:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/novascotiaducktolling.htm

A terrier or herding-type dog (Collie etc) is out, as they're likely to chase and worry the GPs. The reason I'm interested in a pedigree is because we're first time owners and I feel we're more likely to know what we're getting with a specific breed (although I know nothing is 100% guaranteed). Plus I feel it would be easier to train a puppy to leave other pets alone, than an older dog.

purpleprincess

Hi Liz,

I just had to reply as we have a 14wk old Collie x Lab, a house rabbit and 2 house piggies!

The rabbit and piggies really don't worry about the pup and the rabbit and pup love playing together. The only time I have to be really careful is when pup has LOADS of energy as although the rabbit wants to play, they're not equally matched! If they're all out together at those times I keep puppy on a loose lead just so I know I have control.

Anyway, I thought you'd appreciate pics as evidence!





These were taken at the guinea pigs birthday party...all animals out together for 3 hours and even I was amazed at how calm it was and how everyone got on so well!!

Just remember that she is a puppy and will want to play!

Good luck...those dogs are beautiful

purple xxx

purpleprincess

Oh, I thought I'd post this one too....just because it's so cute!

LizD_2

Lovely pics! Bunny is nearly as big as the pup!

I think my main concern is avoiding something happening when the animals were unsupervised. If we go ahead, they will be left for short periods while I'm at work.

ka7e

I think the NSDTR has a "soft" mouth, being a retriever, but don't underestimate the roughness of a puppy at play! My Lab has pounced on a young bird before now (caught by a cat) and couldn't understand why it didn't get up to play again. And have you seen a puppy pick up and shake a toy? :eek:
It's generally accepted that you shouldn't leave a young child alone with any dog - and the same thing applies to all small creatures.

Charlie1986

I have a pug who is 3. He sit's with my guinea pig in her run outside and she snuggles under him. He won't let anyone near my guinea pig and is quite protective, although he is petrified of my hamster :rolleyes:

purpleprincess

I really wouldn't leave them alone, especially whilst out. I would have trusted my old dog with anything (she died 3yrs ago aged 18)...but with a puppy, probably for a few years and until you know the temperament of your dog, I'd want to be really careful!

Do your piggies have their own house?

Our rabbit has a large hutch and the GPs have an open topped indoor cage, both in the living room. The puppy is crated at night or if I'm out. It really helps you and them if everyone has their own safe space...although the puppy has learnt how to open the rabbit hutch (encouraged by the rabbit I think! :rolleyes: )

As Ka7e says, a puppy can really rag a toy about...and I wouldn't take the risk that something fluffy, squeaky and running about could be far more interesting than toys in her basket!!!

LizD_2

Yes, the pigs have their own house: too many nooks and crannies to get stuck in for them to free-range! It's an open-topped cage, sounds similar to yours.

I have heard of crating, but didn't think of using that. It does seem a bit unfair, but I suppose it's like the dog's 'den'. Does this make him feel more secure, so long as it's his space only? Also there must be a limit to how much time a dog should spend in one?

NotSoSmart_2

Crating is not hurtful to dogs (unless it's used as a form of punishment, which it shouldn't be) and indeed, they feel it is their safe place, especially if there are children running around that can either scare them or make them fret.

You shouldn't really leave a dog in a crate longer than overnight, or however long it takes them to need to 'toilet'. Make sure you take them out for relief before crating, and that they have food and water available while crated.

Some breeds will do well with small furries if they are brought up with them from an early age; some will kill them regardless (like terriers) as it's what they were bred to do and often genetic memory takes over. You can be lucky with individual dogs, but you may not wish to take the chance...

My suggestion would be to find the breed assocation for the breed you are interested in (go through the Kennel Club if you can't find them with a general internet search) and speak with the Club secretary. They should be able to provide you with any necessary information, and help you to decide whether this is indeed the right breed for you.

LizD_2

I'm a member of a Toller forum, and asked the question there. Those that keep Tollers and furries generally believe they are ok together. Although obviously it's just not worth tempting fate by leaving them together unsupervised. I just wouldn't take the risk of a Terrier that is bred for killing small furry things.

I appreciate everyone's replies, please keep them coming. I need all the advice I can get, so I'm as informed as I can be!

LizD_2

PurplePrincess, the second piccie looks like the ginger pig is saying 'Wot you looking at?' to your pup!