Recommendations for small breed dog?

[golfgal]

I am so glad that I stubbled upon this thread!! We moved into a town fromthe country and our 4 year old chocolate lab did not take the move well. He was used to having the run of the farm and a small fenced back yard just hasn't cut it. So, 2 weeks ago we gave him to a friend who does live on a farm. He is much happier now, but I miss having a dog!!

I have had cocker spaniels in the past, but now that I have kids, I don't think that is such a good idea! DS has mild allergies, and we are leaning towards a "hypo-allergenic" breed. I am wondering if anyone has a schnauzer? I have heard they have an odor. But, DH really likes them. Any feedback on them?

To the OP, so sorry about Wallace. It's hard saying good-bye to a friend.

We have a rat terrier and they are great dogs, VERY SMART. They are a small dog with a big dog attitude. They aren't yippy but they are somewhat protective. If someone comes to the door, she will be right at the door. If she doesn't like who is at the door, she will bark. She loves to play, especially running around in the yard with the kids. She is a good cuddler too. She sheds but not much and my kids have allergies and asthma and haven't had any problems with her. They range in size from 5 lbs-55 lbs depending on the line. Our dog is 10 lbs.

Funny dog story: we had BBQ'd ribs the other night and threw the bones in the garbage. She took one bone out of the garbage and I took it away from her. I went to finish something up in the kitchen and I turned to look and there she was SNEAKING into the dining room with that bone. She was creeping along slowly, looking around to make sure I wasn't looking. It was SOOOO funny looking! She dropped the bone as soon as she saw me looking at her.

 

[Grumpy's Wife]

Another vote for Bichon Frise. My DD is allergic to dogs. She begged us about wanting to get a dog. I did lots of research about choosing the right dog. A Bichon is a great choice. No shedding! Our little "Gracie" is a tiny Bichon. She is 2 1/2 and weighs only seven pounds. She has the sweetest disposition. Good luck with your choice.