What to Consider When You Choose a Dog Breed
Before you choose the right breed, let me stress again that buying a puppy is a very big commitment and there are many parameters to consider. Please read again my previous post, ‘When you should not buy a puppy’ and make sure you are really prepared to have a four-legged-friend. Don’t forget that while puppies are small, sweet and playful, grown-up dogs might be different. They are big, need attention and exercise and they mean cost too.
Once you have decided and are absolutely sure that you want to purchase a purebred dog you need to choose a breed that suits you, your lifestyle and environment the most. Your dog may be your best friend if you select his or her breed very carefully. Each dog breed has its own characteristics which matches certain lifestyle and environment. We suggest you consider the followning before committing to any of the breeds.
Family
First consider each member of your family. Some dog breeds are very protective and don’t go along well with an active family with many members and visitors coming and going. Other breeds don’t get along with small children; they consider children as toys and could harm them inadvertently. If you have family members who are allergic to animals choose a breed that sheds less and may be more comfortable for those who are allergic to dogs.
By selecting the right breed you may ensure that everybody in your family enjoys the faith, love and companionship of a purebred puppy. That is what we call Pure Puppyness! Also don’t forget to think ahead. Your future dog will live with you for ten years or more. Maybe there are no small children in your family now but there might be some in the future.
Cost
Your dog, whatever breed or size he or she is will require different supplies and attention. These will be: vaccinations and other healthcare, insurance, food, vitamin, grooming, toys, bedding, crates for travel, etc. Estimate the cost and make sure you will be able to cover all the incurring cost. If you are uncertain select a dog that is less costly.
Size
Apparently larger dogs need more space inside and outside as well. They need larger bed and space in the home and as they need more exercise they require more space outside. Smaller dogs suit small apartments and they also need smaller space for exercise. But please note that small size does not mean less care, less grooming or a kind temperament.
Temperament
Choosing a breed with the right temperament is the guarantee that you won’t have conflict with the dog’s personality. Dogs of certain breeds are friendlier than others. If you are looking for a guard dog a more aggressive breed may suit your need but if you are planning to have a family dog you need to opt for a friendlier breed. When considering the characteristics of your dog you need to think through his or her: compatibility with children, loyalty, sensitivity, energy level, protectiveness, compatibility with other animals.
You may read a general overview of each breed in books and get an idea about the breed that suits you the most. NewDoggy.com may also help you through its BREED SELECTOR. Once you have an idea of the breed you want to have in your life and home the best is to spend some time with an owner of the particular breed to understand how he reacts and lives. Please note that each dog is an individual living thing and his or temperament may differ from the large majority of his own breed. This is something you can’t avoid and you need to be ready for some flexibility. But you don’t need to worry, Poodles will never grow to the size of a Rottweiler!
Updated on: July 29th, 2022 at 15:13.
