[Yumi H]

...dogs and their bark? I get scared when larger breed dogs growl or bark.I got attacked by a corgi before and certain breeds make me nervous, but the breeds that I like are : Maltese, poodles, schnauzers, pugs and miniature mutts. Also, due to a mild allergy, dogs with coarse hair like labs tend to make my skin itch. Yet, poodles and cavalier king Charles spaniels and those breeds mentioned above didn't make me itch. A dog would give me an excuse to walk around and not look weird, especially when I go too close to people w/dogs.

[deep_blue]

Cavalier king charles spaniels are pretty friendly dogs. If you're scared of dogs n their bark, dont get a toy dog. Smaller dogs tend to be more snappy and bark more.

[iluvgermanshepards]

Dachshunds are Great small dogs and they do not need professional grooming.

[little_miss_innocent_101]

I think you should get a pug. I just got one and he is the most love-able, friendly dog that I have ever had.

[atomicblueberry123]

If you are scared of dogs and their barking, you really need to rethink if a dog is the right pet for you. If so, you should get a Basenji, they are literally a breed of dogs that do not bark . They are extremely easy to care for-short ,non-shedding fur, and hypoallergenic. They also look like they are "smiling" and have cute curly tails (like piglets). You really don't want those sissy breeds you mentioned, all they do is clamor for attention, nip, yap and b**ch all day (sort of like the drama queens who tend to own them!). Good Luck!

[Katydid]

small dogs do tend to bark much more, especially when they're young. A good idea for you may be to adopt an older dog (of a breed that you're not afraid of and doesn't make you itch) who's out of the excitable, snappy, puppy stages and is a little bit more calm. This doesn't necessarily mean an old dog, but I reccomend one who's at least about two years old. There are many, many of these types of dogs in animals shelters because so many people always want a puppy that they forget that the ones who are a little older still need good homes too. I think this would be a good idea for you becase it's easier to judge the personality of an adult dog than a puppy, and this way you would have the best chance of choosing one who could be a good friend to you and meet your needs well. If you're looking for a small dog, they tend to have a much longer lifespan than larger dogs (I've known several toy dogs who are 15+ years) so you don't need to worry that choosing one who's not a little puppy wil make your time with him or her too short. Good luck!

[froggz]

poodles are the best to get if you have allergies. or you could get a poodle mix. as for personality, i would get a spanial, as they are usually very loving. but if you are only getting a dog so that you don't look weird, then please rethink it. because you are scared of dogs, it might be hard to have one around full time. maybe you could borrow someone else's dog and walk it for them. that way you could work on your fear, and not look weird. then when you are not so nervous around dogs you could look into getting one of your own.

[colbydog43]

i have 3 maltese and they are non shedding lap dogs, get one that is 8 weeks or younger because they will be easier to train also get the collar that goes around the chest when you walk your dog so it will not choke and obey you more very good dog to have and you can cut their hair short unless you want to spend time grooming them, mine go outside most times to potty but also use puppy pads at walmart 12 dollars for 50 of them and they train easy to puppy pads

[grandmaw groomer]

I am a dog groomer. I find if you want a dog that doesn't bark alot your best bet would be something like a yorkie, small one, but for your allergies, a bischon doesn't shed. Some of the best would be the Schnauzers too. I have had this breed for 30 years. They will bark however but are very much one to attatch itself to its owner. Pugs have alot of problems for those with allergies. They tend to have eye problems too. Good luck with your choice and hope I helped.

[B.B.]

DO NOT get a teacup dog if you do not have dog experience. They are very, very finicky. They have to have a lot of special attention. My advice is to get a already owned and trained dog. About 3 yrs. old so you don't have to house train it and it is already calm and not jumpy and hyper, that may scare you. Hope I helped!!