The best ways to choose the perfect dog
PetsAll men may be created equal, but certainly not all dogs; at least not in the sense of being a perfect family pet. Many people don’t think much of the long-term implications when choosing what type of dog to get and this often leads to pets being returned to the breeder or ending up in the kennel as unwanted animals. This is a sad end to something that began with so much love and can be avoided if the decision is made carefully and all the implications are considered. Here are a few things to help you get started in making this important decision.
The first consideration is the size of your garden, if you have one. That cute little Mastiff puppy may look cute and have plenty of space in your two-bedroom apartment, but 200 pounds later it could take up more space than you have. Those who live in dwellings without yards should think twice about getting a dog breed that is extremely energetic. If dogs don’t have an outlet for their energy, they often become destructive and take their frustrations out on furniture. If these are your living conditions, it’s best to stick with a small breed or even consider adopting a senior dog that requires less exercise.
If you have children or are planning them for the near future, certain breeds should be avoided. Any dog can do well with children if he is well trained, but it is easier to avoid the hassle and choose a breed that gets along well with little ones. Some great choices include Retrievers, St. Bernards, and Labradors. Problems with children, especially newborns, are often the reason dogs are put up for adoption.
Kids
People often begin their pet searches with a purebred dog in mind. They have no plans to breed or show the dog, but still seem to think a pure breed is necessary. Often this is not the case. Mixed breed dogs tend to be more intelligent and have fewer genetic health defects. They can be found in shelters, saving the considerable expense of a pure breed.
On the other hand, it is more difficult to predict the character traits of stray dogs. Often these traits don’t show up for quite a while, and once they do, you’ve got the dog. A pure breed can offer a better indication of how the dog will behave as an adult.
The last thing to consider is your lifestyle. If you are an active person and plan to take your dog on your hikes, you will need to find a dog that can keep up with you. A Chihuahua is not a good fit for someone who enjoys 10-mile runs with their pet. On the other hand, a greyhound is not a good lapdog for a person whose idea of exercise is to change the channel. There is a dog that is suitable for everyone; you just need to think a bit behind choosing him.
A dog can be a great addition to any family. Any lifestyle can be combined with the right dog breed. It just takes a little forethought and some realistic decisions.