How to Pick a Dog Breed for Your Family

There are several hundred dog breeds to choose from. How will you know which one is right for you? How do other people go about to pick a dog breed? There are a number of ways you can narrow down the choices to be sure that you pick a dog that is just right for you and your lifestyle.

How much space will the dog have? Consider your living quarters. Do you live in an apartment? Do you have a yard? Is it fenced in? Depending on where you live, you can rule out big dogs (in an apartment for example) or high-energy dogs (if you do not have a yard for them to play in).

If you have children, you will need to consider the size and temperament of your potential dog. If the children are younger, your tastes will need to be more strict since many dogs do not fare well with toddlers and infants. Chihuahuas and Maltese dogs, for example, get hurt easily and can be injured by small children who play too rough for them.

How much exercise will you be able to give your dog? If you have a fenced-in yard, the dog will be able to play and get exercise on his own. But some dogs, especially those from the Sporting, Hound and Herding Groups need very intense exercise to get rid of some of their energy. For these animals, you will need to play long walks or daily trips to the park. If your lifestyle can permit this change and you are able to be there for the dog, then you will have a rewarding and great relationship.

Consider the grooming and maintenance needs. Are you allergic to fur? Do you want to spend a lot of time brushing your pet and cleaning up after fur balls? Some breeds need constant grooming, while others are fine with a once-a-week quick brush. Whippets are an excellent choice for people that don’t have time for a high-maintenance dog, for example.

How old do you want your dog? Many people choose a puppy over an older dog, but older dogs bring a number of advantages that puppies can’t offer. For example, older dogs are oftentimes already housebroken and have had some obedience training. They are less rambunctious and less apt to pick on or be disturbed by smaller children. They can be less destructive to the home. They can have behavioral problems, however, or health problems from the previous owner, however, so you need to be careful.

Picking a reputable dog breeder is key if you are searching for a puppy. A good breeder will have a waiting list for puppies. Puppy mills and dog pet stores are often the worst places to get the dogs since there are few regulations in these places. You will want to buy your puppy directly from the breeder.

Call a local animal rescue place or animal shelter and evaluate your dog’s health and temperament. When you pick the right dog breed for you, you can start a lifetime of pure enjoyment and happiness – with some initial frustration as the dog settles into your new home.

         

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