How to Choose a Dog Breed
Deciding to get a dog is easy, but the decision on which particular breed to choose is harder. You can’t just go and pick a dog just because it’s adorable; you need to think and weigh the benefits and possible problems with that breed. Here are some things to consider when choosing a dog breed.
Big Or Small?
Size is an important factor to remember when picking out a pet, especially because he’s going to come live with you. Evaluate your space first: Is your home big enough for the Labrador Retriever you want to have, or do you have a pad so small that only a little Chihuahua would fit? Remember, big dogs with wagging tails can cause damage to household items, and will require more food. They’re very dependable when watching over your house, though. Smaller dogs are cute and easy to carry around, but vulnerable. Plus they are more sensitive to cold temperatures and aren’t very good as watch dogs.
Will He Get Along With Who You Live With?
dog breedYour family or housemates will also interact with your dear pet, so it’s also important to know whether they’ll be comfortable with the dog breed you choose. For example, do you have kids? It’s great if you can have a loving and sweet breed who they’ll get along with and will protect them. Good choices include the Australian Sheperd, Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Labrador, English Bulldog, or Poodle.
It’s also important to find out if the dog you want sheds heavily. Not only will he need grooming and constant cleaning, but the excessive fur can also trigger allergies. If someone in your family has a dog allergy, opt for a hypoallergenic dog breed. Pick a Maltese, Irish Water Spaniel, Shih Tzu, or a Yorkshire Terrier.
Energetic Or Couch Dog?
All dogs need exercise, that’s a fact, but not all dog breeds have the same amount of energy. Are you looking for a pet who you can play Frisbee with? Or would you like him to just lounge around the house most of the time, sleeping? If you want a very energetic pet, get a breed like a Border Collie, but if you prefer a lazy dog, a Basset Hound is better.
How Much Cash Are You Willing To Spend?
All dogs with breed cost money, that’s certain. That’s why you should look beyond the initial spending, and think about the costs afterwards. For example, the diet: Big dogs cost a lot more, because they eat more. There are also special breeds that require dog food feeding, and scraps and leftovers are not advisable. Before picking a dog breed, find out about this first. Grooming also matters, especially for dogs like poodles and Shih Tzus, whose fur needs to be groomed. Consider also tick protection and prevention, medications and shots.
Can He Be Left Alone?
If you’re too busy with work, or if your family often goes away, you’ll need to leave your darling pooch behind. There are some dog breeds who don’t cope with this well, like Chihuahuas and Golden Retrievers, as they get Separation Anxiety. Find out which dog breeds aren’t very affected by this. Better yet, think again if it’s really time for you to get a pet.
Other Considerations
Living with other animals and dogs - Some dog breeds get along well with other animals, even cats. Some can be very violent.
Climate issues - Pets also need to be comfortable with their surroundings and the climate. For example, having a husky when you live in tropics is ill-advised.
Community acceptance - Does your community welcome pets?
Your level of experience with dogs - Unless you’re an expert on dogs already, settle for small or medium sized breeds. Big dogs will only drag you around.
A dog is a dear companion, but if you pick a breed that’s not compatible with your personality or your life, you’ll both have a difficult and unhappy time. Remember these tips to get a lovable and darling pet.