Pet Information > ASK Experts > Dogs > Dog Breeds > Terriers > Which dog breed?

Which dog breed?

20 11:18:08

Question
I would like a dog with similar characteristics of a boston terrier or a cavalier king charles spaniel BUT with less or very low health issues. Can you guide me which other type of dogs are suitable for me? I'm looking for a small pure-bred dog that can live in an apartment with no yard but with an average size balcony. This would be my first dog, so I'm a beginner. Also I work Monday till Saturday 9am to 5pm (8 hours every day). But I do have a whole day free every week and most evenings during weekdays. I am willing to take the dog outside for a walk once a day (between half to one hour duration) and will also take him to dog training classes (for me aswell). I don't like very small toy dogs such as the size of pugs and also do not like poodles. Small to low-medium size would be fine. I do not mind average grooming but it would be better if it is low on shedding, barking, and bad smells. Hope I gave enough information.
Regards

Answer
Hi Lawrence,
You have quite a list. I am glad you have it because you need to realize that  dogs need more than what you are asking for unless you are will to pay for the reality. Dogs need a lot more attention than you have expressed you are able to give. Leaving a dog alone from 9-5 doesn't cut it for any breed unless you are willing to come home mid day or have a walker come in and take it for an hour or 2.
Dogs need 4-5 walks a day. A balcony is not a walk. Every living creature smells if not maintained so what is your expectation here? It needs grooming, baths, brushing pedicures yearly vet check-ups.
Terriers and and poodle type dogs have least shedding but are high grooming maintenance. Grooming should be 50-200 $ depending on where you go- you get what you pay for.
Not sure I would recommend your doing this yet unless you are ready to hire the staff needed to be fair to the dog.