Goldfish Tankmates

Question
I have a couple of small fancy goldfish in a 10 gallon tank, who are doing quite well.  As they grow, I'll move to a larger tank.  I'd like to get some type of critter or fish for the bottom of the tank.  I've got fake plants in the gravel with a couple of small ornaments.

So what could I add to the tank with the goldfish?  I've read mixed comments about snails...some say they're good, others say they make more of a mess than they clean up?

How about shrimp or lobsters?

Answer
Hi Bill,
Snails are great. They can be good cleaners but do produce their fair share of waste too. Which could build up a lot along with the goldfish themselves.

Dojo or weather loaches are commonly kept with goldfish and they mix very well. They do great in cooler water and are peaceful. They are interesting slender bottom dwellers that come in solid golden-yellow or the natural dark mottled brown. Check them out if you like.

Shrimp might get eaten by the goldfish eventually. Lobsters or crayfish would probably be OK. But I don't know how soon it'd be until the crayfish or lobster would pinch a slow-swimming goldfish or tear their tail. And if your goldfish sleep on the bottom at night they might be in danger.

I hope this helps!
Karen~