Buying a dog as a pet quickly becomes complicated when the prospective owner realizes how many dog breeds are available. Whether choosing a puppy from the local dog shelter, buying at a pet store, or consulting with a breeder, it is best to do some homework in order to have at least a general idea of the best breed for the particular household. It usually depends on the living space available for the dog, the number and ages of members of the household, and the purpose for acquiring a dog as a pet.
Bulldog- A Bulldog might not be considered beautiful, but there is a certain dignity to the determined way it carries its loose jointed, wrinkled body. It is a great family companion, friendly and protective with the children and undemanding about its own needs. The Bulldog can be stubborn, though, and is very possessive about its food. Do not feed it around small children or other animals that might get near it while it is eating. A Bulldog requires little grooming and exercise so is appropriate for living in a small space. There is a caution about warm weather as the Bulldog does tend to overheat and needs shade or air conditioning.
Beagle- Beagles are the ultimate in the concept of a friendly puppy dog. This breed is under 16" tall with a compact body, so is easy to have around small children and in an apartment. It is a lively, active dog, and often seen as mischievous and sometimes destructive if it does not receive enough attention and exercise. Of course, this playfulness is a great attraction for most children. These days, the popularity of the Beagle is mostly as a family pet, instead of the rabbit hunter it was bred to be in the 1500s.
Basset Hound- The friendly Basset Hound usually has a sweet disposition that makes it an excellent family pet or companion to a single person. However, it was originally bred to track small game. This means it is always ready to follow scents when on a walk so a leash is necessary at all times. The Basset Hound is a gentle dog that is very trainable alone or in hunting packs. Although it has a heavy body with short legs and long ears, it grows no more than 14" tall at the shoulders so is adaptable to a smaller living space. Be prepared to deal with drooling, snoring, and occasional stubbornness.
Boxer- The Boxer is a large, sturdy breed that makes an excellent hunting, guard and companion dog. In spite of his size and name, this dog is patient, playful, and protective with children. It usually gets along well with other family pets. This is an intelligent dog, often trained as a guide dog and, during wartime, was a courier dog on the front lines. Boxers require minimal grooming, but do need daily exercise outdoors. Be prepared to tolerate drooling, snoring, flatulence, and stubbornness. Boxers need strong, consistent leadership from their owners.
There are a few primary considerations for choosing a pet from one of the many dog breeds available. Its size and temperament should be a good fit for the new owner. A boisterous family living in the suburbs and a single senior in a small apartment will probably choose different breeds. It is also important to check out both hereditary health issues for the breed and the condition of the specific dog. Spending the time to choose wisely ensures an enjoyable experience for all the family and the dog for years to come.
Bulldog- A Bulldog might not be considered beautiful, but there is a certain dignity to the determined way it carries its loose jointed, wrinkled body. It is a great family companion, friendly and protective with the children and undemanding about its own needs. The Bulldog can be stubborn, though, and is very possessive about its food. Do not feed it around small children or other animals that might get near it while it is eating. A Bulldog requires little grooming and exercise so is appropriate for living in a small space. There is a caution about warm weather as the Bulldog does tend to overheat and needs shade or air conditioning.
Beagle- Beagles are the ultimate in the concept of a friendly puppy dog. This breed is under 16" tall with a compact body, so is easy to have around small children and in an apartment. It is a lively, active dog, and often seen as mischievous and sometimes destructive if it does not receive enough attention and exercise. Of course, this playfulness is a great attraction for most children. These days, the popularity of the Beagle is mostly as a family pet, instead of the rabbit hunter it was bred to be in the 1500s.
Basset Hound- The friendly Basset Hound usually has a sweet disposition that makes it an excellent family pet or companion to a single person. However, it was originally bred to track small game. This means it is always ready to follow scents when on a walk so a leash is necessary at all times. The Basset Hound is a gentle dog that is very trainable alone or in hunting packs. Although it has a heavy body with short legs and long ears, it grows no more than 14" tall at the shoulders so is adaptable to a smaller living space. Be prepared to deal with drooling, snoring, and occasional stubbornness.
Boxer- The Boxer is a large, sturdy breed that makes an excellent hunting, guard and companion dog. In spite of his size and name, this dog is patient, playful, and protective with children. It usually gets along well with other family pets. This is an intelligent dog, often trained as a guide dog and, during wartime, was a courier dog on the front lines. Boxers require minimal grooming, but do need daily exercise outdoors. Be prepared to tolerate drooling, snoring, flatulence, and stubbornness. Boxers need strong, consistent leadership from their owners.
There are a few primary considerations for choosing a pet from one of the many dog breeds available. Its size and temperament should be a good fit for the new owner. A boisterous family living in the suburbs and a single senior in a small apartment will probably choose different breeds. It is also important to check out both hereditary health issues for the breed and the condition of the specific dog. Spending the time to choose wisely ensures an enjoyable experience for all the family and the dog for years to come.
About the Author:
The author is also a distributor of The Dog Proof Trash Can and contributor to E-turtle-facts.
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