The Chow Chow has the personality of a cat—aloof, independent, dignified, and sheds like one too. Its Arctic coat makes the Chow Chow a bad fit for mild climates, and its dominant breed type makes it a bad fit for humans who want to be in charge of this adorable part-teddy bear, part-lion, and part-black-tongued chimera. The unique but vociferous dog is one of the world’s oldest breeds. The ancient breed is believed to have originated in China.
But he won’t make many neighbors happy with a strong tendency to yap. And it will work tirelessly to hold the alpha position of your human household until every human relents. They don’t do well with children or strangers and may become aggressive. If there is an experienced handler in the house, the dog can be nurtured into a well-socialized Chow, but the breed is not recommended for families without a strong, disciplined leader who is familiar with dogs.
The Great Pyrenees
This breed has the potential to be a devoted pet who is loyal to your family, as well as a competent watchdog. The great Pyrenees tend to be strong-willed and stubborn, however, so a determined training regimen will need to be in place. It does not have the reputation of being an easy dog to live with, but with a strong socializing and training effort at home, he can be a good companion for the whole family.
These dogs are gentle with children and calm inside the house. Outside, this dog will require secure fencing and is not recommended for off-leash walks. Drooling is common. The Great Pyrenees was bred as a flock-guarding dog in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain. This background makes the Great Pyrenees a brave and effective guard dog. Its nature is watchful, protective, and attentive to its family.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians were bred to run. Originally, they ran alongside horse-drawn carriages and ultimately were known for running with the fire brigade. So, if you go for a 10-mile jog each morning, that will help. However, it won’t cure its high-strung proclivities. It is one of the most excitable breeds.
This striking white and black-spotted dog with a tall frame, a long tail, and floppy ears can be trained to be a good watchdog, but it’s not easy. Without training, Dalmatians become aggressive and destructive. They are high-maintenance pets who are capable of digging a crater-size hole in your backyard, and they are too excitable to be around small children.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is not an outdoor dog, but it is the perfect companion who will share lots of love with you at home in the apartment. They were bred in China for loyalty and as lapdogs. They are playful fun-loving, and also mischievous. On the other hand, Shih Tzus is prone to incessant barking. It’s that familiar high-pitched percussion: Yap! Yap! Yap! House training can be a nightmare unless you plan to replace your floors anyway.
As a brachycephalic, the Shih Tzu is notoriously susceptible to diseases and dental issues. They frequently have respiratory issues that may require surgical treatment. Their round, dark eyes are adorable, but bulging eyeballs are at risk for eyeball injury called proptosis and other eye conditions. There is also a risk for an inherited condition called renal dysplasia.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is German for “monkey-like terrier,” and it sure lives up to its name. The inquisitive and busy little guy is also known as the “mustachioed devil” in France. The toy-size dog is marked by not just a mustache but also a beard and bushy eyebrows. At its shoulders is a rough-coat cape. It loves to monkey around and is as playful and mischievous as its appearance suggests.
The Affenpinscher is a barker and a climber. He is not afraid of anything and is a voracious rodent hunter. It will go after big dogs with no regard. This dog makes a stalwart watchdog, but its size prevents any protective service. The Affenpinscher is a loyal family dog but also bold and stubborn. This dog takes vigilant training. Despite its slight size, weighing in at barely eight pounds, it will jockey for the pack leader position in your house. Growling, snapping, and biting are your first clue it has taken the lead. Affenpinschers are not good with children, becoming aggressive about toys and territory.