What's the best breed for my family

muffinek

We have been thinking about getting a dog for a while. Not a puppy but one between 1-3 years old. Just can't decide which breed would suit us best. French Bulldog seems to be fitting the bill perfectly but I am concerned about their health issues especially breathing. So I guess I am looking for a French Bulldog without their health issues. Any ideas?

Our list is following

Small to medium size
Good family pet. We have 4 year old child
As little grooming as possible 
Exercise needs similar to French Bulldog

tacpot12

Yo are almost certainly better off with a cross-breed, as these tend to have less problems than pure breeds. Getting a dog at the older end of your target range would also give you more certainty that they didn't have any health or behavioral problems. 

I would have a look at all the small cross breeds on dogsblog.com and see if there is one that you like the look of. Just make sure youur read the descriptions carefully. In my experience (we found our two dogs via dogsblog) the descriptions are generally very accurate and do tell you what you need to know.

Most short haired dogs will not need to be groomed, but can shed hair. Very stiff hairs can be quite difficult to remove from fabrics. You can always ask about whether they shed much hair, but it would be best to ask this of a foster carer that has known the dog for a while.

muffinek

Unfortunately due to age of my child I can't adopt via shelter/rescue 

thorsoak

It is quite usual for Rescues to put age restrictions on homes that they will allow to rehome a dog -and for good reasons.   Good breeders are also likely to do the same.   Beware of people who do not ask any questions about your home, your family and your circumstances. 

I would suggest that you do more research into the breeds that you like and, if you look at a website such as champdogs, you will find lists of ACCREDITED breeders, who do all the necessary health checks of their dogs before they breed - and they have to show these results to the website owners before they are accepted on the website.   Good breeders will welcome (within COVID restrictions) visits before accepting people on a waiting list for puppies.  For the breed that you are suggesting you will be paying somethiing over £2,000 I understand- so I hope you have deep pockets.

billy2shots

Very similar to Frenchies although a totally different breed is the Boston Terrier. 

Still similar breathing issues (longer snouted dogs can be found) but better health all round. 

BTs are not as stubborn as FBs and if anything, they tick more boxes for a family pet. 

muffinek

I looked into Boston Terriers but I discarded them on the assumption of issues with breathing. 

I can't really buy from a breeder as I don't want a puppy. Breeders don't tend to have adult dogs unless they reduce their own business but I believe ex breeding dogs come with their own issues and may not be best for for a family with small children. 

I was recommended border terrier which I like a lot but it seems impossible to find adult one good with kids hence I asked for some more recommendations. 

minimad1970

I have a Border Terrier, they're brilliant little dogs. I belong to a few BT facebook groups and it's rare to see one that's not good with children. Although I have no idea of a reputable place to find an adult one.

squirrelchops2

As little grooming as possible...do you mean having to brush at home or hair shed?

I only ask as it is a double edged sword - dogs that don't shed are going to need professional grooming...not very MSE but £30 to £35 every 8 weeks is something to consider

muffinek

I meant to avoid spending extra on professional grooming.

thorsoak

Have you thought about making contact with these people?  https://www.borderterrierwelfare.co.uk/

They may,of course, say that you are ineligible because you have a 4 year old - but if you make contact and can assure them that your 4 year old is a sensible child, and that you are prepared to wait for the right dog to come along - you might stand a chance.

Please don't be tempted by some of the advertson the likes of gumtree ....that's where unscrupulous people will attempt to sell on stolen dogs.

Pollycat

thorsoak said:

Have you thought about making contact with these people?  https://www.borderterrierwelfare.co.uk/

They may,of course, say that you are ineligible because you have a 4 year old - but if you make contact and can assure them that your 4 year old is a sensible child, and that you are prepared to wait for the right dog to come along - you might stand a chance.

Please don't be tempted by some of the advertson the likes of gumtree ....that's where unscrupulous people will attempt to sell on stolen dogs.

And Facebook even more so...