What breed of dog should we consider for allergy sufferer

[diamondsrock]

Date: 12/30/2008 7:14:35 PM
Author: sugary
Friends of mine have a black mini schnauzer (I am guessing around 15 lbs) and I don't remember having any problems when I am around their dog and they said their dog does not shed, but has to be clipped about every 6 weeks. I will offer to watch their dog next time they go away and see how it goes? I have also been doing a bit of research on my own and have checked out some schnauzer rescue sites. It's nice to see that they give you great detail about the dog in regards to temperament and energy level.

I'd rather go with an older dog to start and my friend says to get a female instead of a male, because a female will not mark her territory like a male. If it works out we may get a puppy later on. I don't see us getting one until after we are married next year, but I thought I'd at least get the research part out of the way now so I can determine what breed I would do well with.

I think watching the dog for a weekend is a very good idea. My schnauzer doesn't shed at all, but like your friend's, does require grooming every 6-8 weeks. Her hair grows at probably the same rate as people hair, or a bit faster. After grooming she looks like a brand new dog. It's kind of funny because she knows she looks good when I pick her up at the groomers. She usually has a new bow or bandana on so feels special. Bad side is the cost of grooming, which around here runs $40 or so, but worth it to me to have a non-shedding dog.
Do a bit of research on the temperment of the breed. My dog is super smart (easy to train on most things), loyal, loving, adores people and other dogs, but does tend to be on the hyper side (less so as she gets older). She needs exercise or gets bored. She flips out when I take her to the park because she loves it so much. Also her barking has been an ongoing issue but really only is a problem when people come over now. She thinks she is a watchdog and wants to alert us to people at the door. Either that or she is barking so they know she is here and they will pet her! She loves to be petted by everyone. I've had her for 6 years and only met one person she didn't like. He was a stranger we met while walking and she backed away from him in fear. I couldn't figure out why.