Looking for an affectionate, HEALTHY, easily house-trained, small dog (PUPPY)
that is low energy, requires little exercise, does not bark
excessively, not nervous or timid, and does not require excessive grooming.

I like terriers and pugs (dogs with personality), but I do not think
they would be appropriate.  Would they?

I don't think there is any breed of puppy that is low-energy and
requires little exercise.

My experience as a volunteer with an animal rescue organization has
led me to believe that, if you want an animal with a certain kind of
disposition, you are much better off getting an adult animal. An
elderly or disabled person may be a particularly good match for an
older dog.

I'm with Pink on this one -- sounds like you really want a cat.

Best regards,

Omnivorous-GA

I've had lots of puppies over the years and whatever their shape or
size they have always taken a lot of work.

For the most part (don't ask about Solomon the Afghan Hound) they have
been very rewarding.

I endorse what the learned Pink and Omni have already advised ... Not Recommended.

A cat sounds altogether more manageable. I particularly like Burmese
or Siamese which from my very limited experience I have found very
good companions and (dare I say this?) more doglike.

For starters, however, I suggest you stay away from lions or tigers.

Good luck with your quest for a little furry creature. 

Regards

Probo

I currently have an eleven-year-old Giant Schnauzer, who takes very
good care of me, but he is declining rapidly.  I have owned a variety
of dogs over the past fifty-eight years--including cocker spaniels,
fox terriers, German Shepherds, Boxers, English bullgods, and Giant
Schnauzers--so I know the nature of puppies.  However, I have had vets
recommend toy fox terriers, bichon frise (which I understand are
difficult to house train, pugs (who have almost as many health
problems as bulldogs, and standard poodles (who--my dog is "who," not
"which"--don't meet the size regulations of most apartments.

I currently employed a cook and a walker for my Giant Schnauzer, but,
as I retire to a new environment, this will be difficult.  Of course,
I shall not desert my Giant Schnauzer!  I am just trying to be
realistic about the future.

Years ago, I tried to adopt an older dog for my mother, and all the
dogs had developed behavior (or serious health) problems.

Thanks for the feedback!

Hi jhas33,

I have owned both dogs and cats and I am currently owned by a fiesty 3
year old cat. Contrary to Probonopublico's comment, although my owner
still looks very much like a cat, he has all the qualities of a
"little dog". He even likes to chase dogs that are named Daisy.

Steph53

Now, if Steph53 were to put her dog-like cat on ebay ...

No reserve, low starting price, will ship internationally, free carriage ...

I agree that most elderly people won't be able to attend to the
high-energy levels and extremely demanding needs of a puppy.
House-breaking alone is a full time job for many weeks if its done
correctly. Also consider the excercise requirements of the breed you
select and its age can be a factor in that. A low energy breed or
small dog which can exercise more indoors seems a good choice for the
elderly. If you must have a puppy I suggest that you at least have
someone help during the training and housebreaking process. There are
many wonderful breeds that are low energy level but too many to list
here. Just avoid the sporting group such as
weimeraner,pointers,retreivers,etc and the very athletic looking dogs.

Hi Jhas33,

Try a Xoloitzcuintle (Mexican Hairless). Terrier like. No grooming
required, just sunscreen. Can be used as a hot water bottle by the
feet, and requires little exercise.

Failing that, if some regular care is available from a helper, you
won't beat the good old Labrador.