Hi there, A few people have mentioned a Papillon (as an owner and devotee of the breed) I have to disagree. Pap's are extremely small boned, most breeders will not sell a pup into a home with children under the age of 10 years. Although they don't have to be an only dog any other dog in the Pap's presence supervised or not must be around the same size. Pap's initially attach themselves to one family member, the choice is the dog's choice and the Pap could pic you, if the Pap does this then it will be in danger of your other two dogs, Pap's are a little possesive of their chosen person but eventually (12 months or so) extend themselves to the rest of the family.
The Papillon is the 8th smartest dog in the world and the only Toy breed to make the top 10, they are excellent for training and agility. An adult Pap weights 3-5kg. With a weight of that any rough play with the Sibe or Staff could easily result in major injury, or worse. As somone mentioned, not all dogs will adjust their play to suit their playmates and play can easily get out of hand. Imagine what a Pap looks like from behind in a full sprint run - run rabbit run
If you end up setting your heart on a Pap you might be up for a long wait, till the children and the other two dogs are older, Pap's live to 15 or more.
There are long waiting lists for Pap's with breeders. Any cross breed's sold will not fit the predictability of a pure Pap no matter even if they say "it's 80% Pap", it's like putting your hand in a lucky dip and expecting a diamond ring. While looking for my Pap a few years ago I discovered that a lot of BYB's were onto the popularity of Pap's and was offered many cross breeds, some very wierd cross breeds too, some claimed pure, with one seller I was even asked if I'd consider one of the other 10 litters that were in their barn, if only I knew then what I know now I could have actually done something about that breeder.
Price - Around $1300
Application to a pup in your home - up to around 12 months
Application Process - anything from a lengthy questionairre to a residential inspection by the breeder
Adoption Agreement - You'll be expected to advise the breeder, during the life of the dog, if you are considering an ownership change of the dog you may have to give the breeder the option of taking the dog back with no purchase cost to the breeder, therefore ensuring that none of their pups end up in unknown homes or in danger.
Other - Agreement on the desexxing age of the pup or consultation with breeder prior to attempting to breed.
Anyway, that is my expectation of a reputable breeder.
Appologies if anyone disagree's with my comments. To me they are a pretty special little dog and all dogs deserve the best, especially when considering if they will fit into your current lifestyle and future lifestyle.
