What You Need to Know About Choosing a Family Dog
There comes a time for most families to add to the household with a four-legged friend. This decision should not be taken lightly. The choice of the right breed of dog can be the difference between complete happiness and absolute terror in your home. The following steps walk you through what to do prior to bringing a dog into your home. I do not attempt to prioritize them as to bring the concepts to your attention for consideration. For I have found the final decision to adding this wonderful animal to your household is to have a grasp of all of the facts.
Learn more about what you should know in choosing a family dog by visiting here.
Amount of Hair
Do you or anyone in your family have allergies? Some dogs are more hypoallergenic than others. This could be a crucial deciding factor. In any event, you will still need to decide how much hair you are willing to put up with. Whether it is shedding or grooming you will need to deal with it. You can always take the middle ground, though, and find a dog that sheds minimally a couple of times of year.
Amount of Exercise
Another thing to consider is how much time can be devoted to walks and playtime? Some breeds require a great deal of daily exercise and if they don't get it can become quite mischievous or very destructive. Choosing a breed with an energy level that fits your family’s time commitment can avoid a great deal of behavioral problems.
Size of Dog
Is it to be a small or large dog? Considering the size of dog includes the cost of maintaining the dog. The general rule is, the larger the dog, the more expensive it will be to care for him. Feeding a St. Bernard is definitely more than a Chihuahua. Physicians charge by weight so medical expenses requiring anesthesia will also be greater. Boarding
kennels and groomers may charge by weight as well.
Type of Temperament
What type of temperament are you looking for? If you have kids, you will want to choose a breed that has a reputation for being good with children. If you want a good watchdog, choose a breed that has a natural guard instinct.
After answering these questions, you can look through any dog breed book and start comparing the qualities you’re looking for to the breeds listed. Write down at least 5 breeds that fit your needs. The next step is to research reputable breeders in your area (I recommend calling your local veterinarian first) and make contact with at least 3 for each breed.
Yes, this will take time. But it is worth it to get the right dog. Interview each breeder thoroughly and share with them your list of qualities. Ask them if they would recommend their breed to you and if so, why. If not, why not? The breeder will be the expert on their breed and can prove to be a very valuable resource.
Once you have completed your research for all breeds, you will have a much clearer picture of which breed is right for you and your family. And, you have already interviewed breeders so you should have found at least one that you feel comfortable purchasing a dog from. If you don’t want a puppy, please consider going through a breed rescue
organization or your local animal shelter. There are so many great dogs of all ages and breed type in desperate need of good homes. Your home may just be the perfect match!
I hope you find these tips helpful in your journey to finding the perfect dog. Take your time, do your research and you will find the companion best suited for your family
Best of luck!
Learn more about what you should know in choosing a family dog by visiting here.
Amount of Hair
Do you or anyone in your family have allergies? Some dogs are more hypoallergenic than others. This could be a crucial deciding factor. In any event, you will still need to decide how much hair you are willing to put up with. Whether it is shedding or grooming you will need to deal with it. You can always take the middle ground, though, and find a dog that sheds minimally a couple of times of year.
Amount of Exercise
Another thing to consider is how much time can be devoted to walks and playtime? Some breeds require a great deal of daily exercise and if they don't get it can become quite mischievous or very destructive. Choosing a breed with an energy level that fits your family’s time commitment can avoid a great deal of behavioral problems.
Size of Dog
Is it to be a small or large dog? Considering the size of dog includes the cost of maintaining the dog. The general rule is, the larger the dog, the more expensive it will be to care for him. Feeding a St. Bernard is definitely more than a Chihuahua. Physicians charge by weight so medical expenses requiring anesthesia will also be greater. Boarding
kennels and groomers may charge by weight as well.
Type of Temperament
What type of temperament are you looking for? If you have kids, you will want to choose a breed that has a reputation for being good with children. If you want a good watchdog, choose a breed that has a natural guard instinct.
After answering these questions, you can look through any dog breed book and start comparing the qualities you’re looking for to the breeds listed. Write down at least 5 breeds that fit your needs. The next step is to research reputable breeders in your area (I recommend calling your local veterinarian first) and make contact with at least 3 for each breed.
Yes, this will take time. But it is worth it to get the right dog. Interview each breeder thoroughly and share with them your list of qualities. Ask them if they would recommend their breed to you and if so, why. If not, why not? The breeder will be the expert on their breed and can prove to be a very valuable resource.
Once you have completed your research for all breeds, you will have a much clearer picture of which breed is right for you and your family. And, you have already interviewed breeders so you should have found at least one that you feel comfortable purchasing a dog from. If you don’t want a puppy, please consider going through a breed rescue
organization or your local animal shelter. There are so many great dogs of all ages and breed type in desperate need of good homes. Your home may just be the perfect match!
I hope you find these tips helpful in your journey to finding the perfect dog. Take your time, do your research and you will find the companion best suited for your family
Best of luck!
