Hey everyone,
I am currently in a bit of a dilemma and would like some opinions on what breed of dog I should get. I have narrowed down my choices to a Doberman or a Chihuahua, but am having a hard time deciding between the two.
For some context, I live in a spacious apartment with my partner and our two children (ages 7 and 10). We have a decent-sized backyard, but not a lot of outdoor space beyond that. I have had dogs in the past, but it has been several years since my last pet.
On one hand, I love the look and athleticism of Dobermans. I think they are gorgeous dogs and would make great companions. However, I am a little worried about their size and how they would adapt to living in an apartment. Additionally, I have heard that they can be somewhat challenging to train and require a lot of exercise.
On the other hand, I am also drawn to the cuteness and personality of Chihuahuas. They are small, which would make them easier to accommodate in our living space, and I have heard that they are quite intelligent and eager to please. However, I am concerned about their reputation for being yappy and potentially aggressive towards other dogs.
So, what do you guys think? Based on my living situation and preferences, do you think I would be better off with a Doberman or a Chihuahua? Any personal experiences or insights would be greatly appreciated!

Hello,
I have experience with both Dobermans and Chihuahuas, and I think the decision on which breed to choose really depends on your lifestyle and ability to provide for a dog's needs.
Firstly, Dobermans are known for being high-energy dogs, and they require a lot of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. As others have mentioned, they are also notorious for being stubborn, so training them can be a challenge. However, if you have the time and energy to put into enriching your dog's life, they can be extremely loyal and protective companions. One thing to keep in mind if you have children is that Dobermans can be very territorial, especially if not socialized properly, so proper training and socialization is important.
On the other hand, Chihuahuas require less exercise and less space; however, they can also be high maintenance in different ways. As others have mentioned, they can be yappy and easily agitated, and they often require a lot of attention to prevent anxious behaviors such as chewing or barking. They can also be prone to health issues, such as dental problems.
In general, I would suggest that if you have the time, energy, and resources to commit to a Doberman's needs, they can be an amazing and loyal companion that offer a lot of protection and fun. However, if you're looking for a dog that requires a little less attention, a Chihuahua can be a great option, provided that you're willing to invest in attention, diet, training and socialization. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your lifestyle, and which breed's individual attributes would best match-up with that.