Read below for reasons why you might want to reconsider.
Question #1: I need an athletic dog... hiking in the mountains.
IGs are athletic dogs, but not the type you'd typically go jogging with, and definitly not the outdoor-loving, rustic type. IGs love games and activities, but not getting wet, dirty, and hiking up rocky paths.
Question #2: Dog that obeys my every command... right by my side...
IGs??? Right by your side? Not likely. These little guys are lap dogs, and love attention, but you take them out to the dog park, let him off the leash, and zoom! There he goes! And just try calling him back...
Obey every command? Not likely either... They're trainable, but it takes a LOT of effort, and you have to work with them being to excited to pay any attention to you. But, get them tuckered out, and they'll sleep on your lap all day.
Question #3: I plan to get a dog I can be commited to...
Good answer, you'll need it.
Question #4: Children under 10...
Kids and IGs don't always mix. But realistically, your child is more likely to hurt the IG than the IG is to hurt the child. For the dog's sake, keep this in mind.
Question #5: Mild climate, not many extremes.
This would be ideal weather for the thin skinned, thin coated, tiny little dog to live in.
Question #6: Licking my face, get close to, begging for attention
This describes the social life of the IG perfectly. Enjoy it!
Question #7: People person, I don't mind getting attention
IGs will get you attention, whether you like it or not. Be prepared to answer silly questions about your dog, and have people of all ages coo-cooing your puppy in public. Might be annoying, but your IG will LOVE it!
Question #8: Give it a couple of months, if it doesn't work out..
If this is your opinion, then it's MY opinion that you shouldn't be an owner to any pet whatsoever. Animals are commitments, I can't stress that enough. Going into a relationship with a pet with the mindset that you can "just get out of it" is ignorant. Reconsider your priorities, some people aren't good with animals. Get a plant or a Furby.
Question #9: I may have babies...
There are two things I want you to consider. First, Question #4. Secondly, don't be one of those people who gives up all their animals when the baby arrive because you think the animal is going to accidentally kill the baby. Allergies are one thing, but if you're going to commit to the animal now, commit to it for life- not just until it's no longer convenient for you.
Question #10: Don't mind pampering...
Good! It's fun to pamepred animals...
Question #11: I can trust myself to...
If you doubt yourself in anyway, don't get a pet. Just like how mom and dad let you get your first pet by making you promise you'd care for it. Things always slide. Life gets in the way. Don't be too selfish to neglect your pets needs.
Question #12: At least one adult in my household is employed part-time or less.
If everyone is gone all the time, thats not fair to you OR Iggy. IGs need lots of attention, no one likes being alone all the time.
Question #13: I plan to neuter my dog.
Wonderful! There are too many stray dogs in this world for you to not neuter. Before becoming a breeder, consider how many animals already need homes. Perhaps opening a rescue would be more fullfilling to yourself and animals.
Question # 14: Don't want my dog to be very energetic.
Ha! Step away, step away. This dog is NOT for you!
Question #15: Don't have much time to train, want dog thats already trained.
Don't we all. But the sad truth is, dogs are animals, they aren't born trained. Dogs who have already been trained may not be the same with you. You have to work up a relationship with a dog before he'll obey your commands.
Question #16: I want a watch dog.
These things are 5 - 15 lbs. Who's going to run from them?
Question #17: I want a long life span in my dog.
If you want a dog that will live longer, pick a smaller dog. Larger breeds only last 10-12 years naturally. Small dogs have been known to live 15-20 years.
Question #18: I have cats or small pets.
Not all IGs are terrible with small animals, but they do tend to chase moving creatures. Sometimes, cats may attack IGs because they aren't threatened by the tiny dogs. Keep this in mind.
Question #19: The people in my family agree with my pet likes/ dislikes.
It's important that everyone in your household agrees with the qualities you're looking for in a dog.
Question #20: I have done research on IGs.
This is the best thing you can do to prepare yourself. Kudos for being a wise person.
