Choosing the Right Dog
Article by: S. Carson
Choosing the right dog for you and your family takes some research and thought. You want to match the animal to your lifestyle and to how much time you have to spend with the dog. If you live in a small apartment and work 14 hours a day, then a large active dog would not be a good choice. Such an animal may be perfect for a family looking for a dog to match their active lifestyle. A dog’s full grown size, exercise requirements, compatibility with children, friendliness and assertiveness should be considered when making your final decisions.
Dogs come in two major categories: purebreds or mixed breeds. You can find either at most animal shelters in your area. Purebreds have the same breed of parents and may be registered. Mixed breeds are a combination of different breeds. Most often it will not be possible to know how many or which breeds your dog contains. If you adopt a purebred dog, you will know much more about what to expect from your dog. You will be able to determine the general physical and behavioral characteristics your dog will posses. Sometimes a vet will be able to determine how large your mixed breed will get at full size.
Some people prefer a purebred because they know what they are getting. Other people prefer a mixed breed because you can benefit from the combined traits of two or more breeds. Mixed breeds a likely to be free of the genetic problems you will find in purebreds.
If you choose to adopt your dog from a local shelter, you will be able to speak to the onsite staff and receive information about the dogs’ personalities. A shelter is a stressful place and the dogs’ true personalities may not show when you visit the first time.
When choosing a dog, you may want a puppy; however, young dogs require much more work and time. You will also be required to provide more training and supervision. If you don’t have the time or the interest to housetrain or correct problems like chewing and jumping, then an adult dog will be a better choice.
Consider choosing a dog with a personality that matches yours and your families. Choose an active bouncy dog if you have an active lifestyle and need a dog that is willing to keep up with you. If you are more of a couch potato, then a quieter or more reserved dog might be a better choice.
Take your time and do research before you go to the shelter. After all, you are choosing a pet that will be with you 10 or 15 years. Select the right dog and you and your pet will be pals for a long, long time.