Rain, traffic and thoughts of dogs

MANILA, Philippines – Like any Pinoy who was driving down EDSA last June 17 after what was called a super heavy downpour, I got stuck in traffic and it took me all of 6 hours to make it to my home in Pasig from Port Area, Manila.

The saddest part about it was that I made it from Port Area to Edsa via Roxas Boulevard in about 20 minutes. But once I crossed Taft Avenue from Edsa, my suffering began.

I was stuck in the Pasay area before the Magallanes flyover for almost 3 hours. Then I made a right at Ayala and took over two hours to make it to Pasig through the Mandaluyong bridge…

…a long, long, long way home.

The good side to such a trip was that it gave me time to think about dogs. (Yes, I think about my pets all the time.)

Here is my list of the most playful and truly “chill” dogs I can think of. If you are thinking of getting a pet, you might want to consider any one of these breeds. (Ed’s note: But we hope that you consider adoption first. – KLM)

This is a subjective list — I am sure you all have your own.

1. Bulldog

Bulldogs may not be the cutest of dogs, but they are known for their gentle disposition, lovable personality and signature wrinkles.

My brother owns an English Bulldog named Bob. He says Bob only barks at paper that flies over his head. The rest of the time, Bob just loves lying around the house.

Bulldogs may not be able to fit in your lap, but they are content to relax by your side any hour of the day. Gentle and protective, they form strong bonds with children and are known for being excellent family pets. Bulldogs require minimal grooming and exercise. They prefer to stay indoors or under the shade in warm weather because of their flat, short noses.

2. Pug

This is a breed that adapts easily to any situation, from living in a home with a big yard to residing in a small apartment with minimal exercise. Pugs are known for being playful, social and willing to please.

While they’re popular companion dogs, they also excel in dog shows. They need minimal exercise, can only take really short walks and, because of their short coats, require little grooming.

3. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog started out as (and still is) a companion dog. French Bulldogs are loved because of their affectionate nature.

Recognizable by their large, bat-like ears, they are active without being rowdy and are happy to spend their time indoors and on your lap. Because of their short, flat faces, they must be kept cool in warm weather.

4. Bichon Frise

Vodka the Bichon lives in my home and owns me. I have come to love this breed very much.

Although the Bichon can be very playful at times and requires lots of grooming, it is generally a lap dog that loves lying around when you are reading a book and snuggling closely when you are sleeping.

This white ball of hair that is actually a dog is cute. Owning it is just like owning a live stuffed toy. It loves giving licks to get your attention.

 

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This is an adaptable and easy to train breed. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is compatible for city or country dwellers and families with varying degrees of activity.

Flexible in their need for exercise, they are happy sleeping with you on the couch or going outside for long walks. This breed is well suited to a family with children.

6. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is an obedient and trusting lap dog. It is bred to be a companion and thrives on attention.

While the Shih Tzu enjoys short walks, it is generally just as happy to romp around your home as it would outside. Because of its intelligence, this breed can be stubborn and requires a strong, consistent hand in training.

7. Poodle

The Poodle is a typically good-natured, intelligent dog that loves attention and bonds very quickly with people. It enjoys learning new things and showing off its new discoveries and tricks. Its habit of barking at people it doesn’t recognize makes it a good guard dog, too.

You should plan to spend at least an hour a day with your poodle, grooming it, walking it, playing with it, teaching it or simply sitting and stroking its fur. Since you are dealing with an intelligent dog, make every effort to challenge it.

Poodles thrive on consistency, so try to keep the routine the same from day to day.

8. Miniature Schnauzer

My first encounter with a Mini Schnauzer happened over 10 years ago when I discovered the breed and didn’t stop my search until I was able to get a good one. Although the Schnauzer may be a little frisky, once it is given its daily walk and is able to chase a few roaches or small bugs, it is fine with just laying around the house.  

The Schnauzer requires grooming to maintain its regal looks, but the rewards are well worth it because, in my  opinion, the Schnauzer is one of the most intelligent-looking dogs on the planet.

The best part is, it not only looks intelligent, it is really very intelligent. – Rappler.com

Brown toy poodle wearing yellow rain coat photo from Shutterstock