Is a yorkie right for my family?

[Maximo]

I second the suggestions to research Bichon Frise and Llasa Apso. We've had neighbors and friends with those breeds and the dogs were wonderful.

The Bichon were playful and not as feisty as terriers.

The Llasas we have known were more sedate, sweet.

[freckledfawn]

Thanks for all of the input and suggestions everyone! We will definitely be looking into some of the suggested breeds on here!

[KairaPup]

I'd look at a shih tzu over a lhasa, in my personal experience with the two breeds, lhasa tend to be much more grouchy. I used to groom and we did not have a single lhasa apso that would not remove your body parts given half a chance.

[Farleys]

Originally Posted by KairaPup

I'd look at a shih tzu over a lhasa, in my personal experience with the two breeds, lhasa tend to be much more grouchy. I used to groom and we did not have a single lhasa apso that would not remove your body parts given half a chance.

I agree completly! I would never suggest a lhasa to anyone with children!! I too am a groomer and have alot of lhasa that are perfectly friendly until i try to groom them. Or untill you touch something they dont want touched. They are so very quick to get nippy.
Shih tzus on the other hand are far more pleasant. Then again there arent many small dogs i would recommend for small children. All it takes is one pull of a tail or grab of a foot and most little dogs if it hurts.. Their first reaction is to nip/bite at whatever is making them hurt. But all can be trained. I would never suggest a pomeranian but a client with 3 small children got one. And while the pomeranian will bite at me while im brushing they say she isnt like that at all with their children. So as long as you have the time and desire almost any breed can work. I have seen some pretty cute little tiny mini aussies that are fantastic with children.

[lovestiny]

Yes I guess it depends on the dog...maltese rescue won't adopt to anyone with young kids but our first maltese was the most mellow and gentle dog around everyone- toddlers- kids- etc. Granted, my kids grew up having them.