One of the most difficult aspects of adopting a dog is deciding on a breed. Some are big while others are small; some are rambunctious while others are calm; and many have personality quirks that are endearing to some owners and frustrating to others. While nearly any canine can make a good companion, selecting a breed that matches your lifestyle will help ensure the experience is as rewarding as possible.
In this article, we'll provide several tips that will help you pick the perfect new addition to your family. Whether you have young children, live by yourself, enjoy an active lifestyle, or prefer time on the couch, you can find the perfect match.
1 - Consider Your Preferred Size
A large canine will need plenty of room; many will feel cramped inside small houses or apartments. Their tails may inadvertently create havoc when they swing back and forth. Also, keep in mind that big dogs eat more, and usually pose higher veterinary bills.
Small pets can become injured easily if someone steps or sits on them. They are also more susceptible to cold weather than bigger animals. On the other hand, small dogs are easier to transport, and usually less expensive to care for.
2 - Keep An Open Mind Regarding Age
Most people adopt puppies without considering an older canine. There are pros and cons to caring for each. A puppy is cute and playful, but requires a significant amount of time. You'll need to housetrain him as well as train him to prevent an assortment of behavioral problems from developing.
An adult dog is usually less excitable. While he may be energetic, he is likely to display a relaxed disposition. There's also a good chance he has received training in the past, which saves you time and effort. Most adult canines are already housebroken, and can quickly adapt to their new homes.
Another benefit of adopting an older pet is that there are few surprises. His personality will have already been formed by the time you bring him home.
3 - Your Energy Level
Some breeds have more energy than others. For example, American Foxhounds, Dalmatians, and Irish Setters are known to be high-energy dogs. These pets are well-suited for owners who live active lifestyles, and can provide them with plenty of exercise (more than a daily walk).
Other breeds are known to be far less energetic. This group includes Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, and Basset Hounds. These canines make compatible companions for owners who enjoy time at home, and are unable to commit to more than a couple of walks each day for exercise.
4 - Your Pet's Grooming Needs
Your dog will need you to provide for his grooming, whether you choose to do it yourself or take him to a professional groomer. In addition to periodic baths, he'll need to have his hair and nails trimmed.
Certain breeds, such as Boston Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, and Rottweilers, need minimal grooming. Others, such as Bearded Collies and Chow Chows, have high-maintenance grooming needs. This means you'll need to bathe, brush, and give them trims more often. You may also find yourself picking up the hair they shed throughout your home.
5 - Breeder Versus Animal Shelter
A lot of would-be owners prefer to adopt from breeders since doing so guarantees breed quality. If you choose to take this route, make sure the breeder from whom you adopt your dog has a good reputation. Many breeders are unprofessional, and fail to screen the animals they breed for diseases and other problems.
An alternative is to visit a reputable animal shelter. The canines are usually mixed breeds, which means each is unique and less likely to be burdened with breed-specific health problems. Also, many shelter dogs will have already been trained by past owners.
Selecting a canine that complements your life can be a daunting experience. But with a little research and self-analysis, you can pick a dog that poses a perfect match.
In this article, we'll provide several tips that will help you pick the perfect new addition to your family. Whether you have young children, live by yourself, enjoy an active lifestyle, or prefer time on the couch, you can find the perfect match.
1 - Consider Your Preferred Size
A large canine will need plenty of room; many will feel cramped inside small houses or apartments. Their tails may inadvertently create havoc when they swing back and forth. Also, keep in mind that big dogs eat more, and usually pose higher veterinary bills.
Small pets can become injured easily if someone steps or sits on them. They are also more susceptible to cold weather than bigger animals. On the other hand, small dogs are easier to transport, and usually less expensive to care for.
2 - Keep An Open Mind Regarding Age
Most people adopt puppies without considering an older canine. There are pros and cons to caring for each. A puppy is cute and playful, but requires a significant amount of time. You'll need to housetrain him as well as train him to prevent an assortment of behavioral problems from developing.
An adult dog is usually less excitable. While he may be energetic, he is likely to display a relaxed disposition. There's also a good chance he has received training in the past, which saves you time and effort. Most adult canines are already housebroken, and can quickly adapt to their new homes.
Another benefit of adopting an older pet is that there are few surprises. His personality will have already been formed by the time you bring him home.
3 - Your Energy Level
Some breeds have more energy than others. For example, American Foxhounds, Dalmatians, and Irish Setters are known to be high-energy dogs. These pets are well-suited for owners who live active lifestyles, and can provide them with plenty of exercise (more than a daily walk).
Other breeds are known to be far less energetic. This group includes Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, and Basset Hounds. These canines make compatible companions for owners who enjoy time at home, and are unable to commit to more than a couple of walks each day for exercise.
4 - Your Pet's Grooming Needs
Your dog will need you to provide for his grooming, whether you choose to do it yourself or take him to a professional groomer. In addition to periodic baths, he'll need to have his hair and nails trimmed.
Certain breeds, such as Boston Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, and Rottweilers, need minimal grooming. Others, such as Bearded Collies and Chow Chows, have high-maintenance grooming needs. This means you'll need to bathe, brush, and give them trims more often. You may also find yourself picking up the hair they shed throughout your home.
5 - Breeder Versus Animal Shelter
A lot of would-be owners prefer to adopt from breeders since doing so guarantees breed quality. If you choose to take this route, make sure the breeder from whom you adopt your dog has a good reputation. Many breeders are unprofessional, and fail to screen the animals they breed for diseases and other problems.
An alternative is to visit a reputable animal shelter. The canines are usually mixed breeds, which means each is unique and less likely to be burdened with breed-specific health problems. Also, many shelter dogs will have already been trained by past owners.
Selecting a canine that complements your life can be a daunting experience. But with a little research and self-analysis, you can pick a dog that poses a perfect match.
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