Whether you're a first-dog owner or you want a new addition to your household, you want to ensure you can meet your dog’s needs while enjoying life together.
Here are some factors to consider before choosing a dog for you and your family:
Your lifestyle
The dog’s size
The dog’s energy levels and activity requirements
The dog’s training requirements
The dog’s shedding level and grooming needs
Health concerns
Breed type
Buying from a breeder
Adoption
Professional advice
Below we take a closer look at each of these top tips for selecting the right dog breed for your family:
Consider Your Lifestyle
Assess your living conditions, daily routine, and activity level. Some dog breeds need more space and exercise than others.
Additionally, consider if you have small kids, other dogs and pets, and if you want a guard dog or companion dog.
Consider the Pups’ Age and Size
Puppies, full grown dogs, small dog breeds and large dog breeds have different requirements, and you should consider this when selecting a breed.
For instance, small dog breeds might be suited for living in apartments while small puppies need more attention and training. On the other hand, adult dogs and large dog breeds may be prone to certain health issues.
Consider the Dog’s Energy and Activity Requirements
Different dog breeds have different energy levels. You should choose a dog breed that suits your activity level.
Generally, working, sporting, herding, and terrier dog breeds have high energy levels while hound and no-sporting dog breeds have low energy levels.
Consider the Dog’s Training Needs
Each dog has different training requirements based on their breed and age. In general, herding and breeds need more training compared to other breeds.
Young puppies may have plenty of energy, thus demanding more rigorous and extended training sessions.
Adult dogs also need exercise, particularly if they have a troubled past as rescues. However, typically, their training needs are not as high as those of puppies or herding and working breeds.
Consider the Dog’s Shedding Level and Grooming Needs
It is also important to take into account the grooming requirements of a dog. Certain breeds need frequent grooming, while others have coats that are easy to maintain.
Consider the amount of time and effort you are willing to invest in grooming your dog and choose the best breed for you.
Consider Health Risks
Some dog breeds are prone to certain health problems, and consequently, have a short lifespan. Brachycephalic breeds (have short noses), like pugs and bulldogs are prone to breathing problems and several other conditions. Large breeds such as mastiffs and great danes are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Most purebred dogs are prone to certain conditions due to their genetics. Mixed breed dogs are generally healthier than their purebred counterparts due to their large gene pool.
Research Various Breeds
Do your homework on the different breeds you’re considering. Learn more about their temperament, appearance, health problems, lifespan, grooming needs, exercise or training needs they might have. This will allow you to make a knowledgeable decision before getting any breed.
Here’s is a brief dog breed guide based on Your preferences:
Independent Dogs: Herding and working dogs tend to be more independent and wilful than others. These include the akita, Border collie, Boston Terrier, shiba inu, German Shepherd, Greyhound, Schnauzer, and the Shar-Pei.
Family-friendly Dog Breeds: these include toy dogs and sociable dog breeds. They need care , attention and human companionship. Otherwise they can suffer from separation anxiety. They include bulldogs, Frenchie's, Labradors, golden retrievers, pugs, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians, poodles, terriers, and Maltese dogs.
Dogs for individuals with allergies: If you’re allergic to pet hair but still want to adopt a dog, you should consider low-shedding dogs or hypoallergenic dogs such as the Afghan Hound, American Hairless Terrier, Barbet, Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Giant Schnauzer, Maltese, Poodle, or the Yorkshire Terrier.
Find a Reputable Breeder
If you have chosen the best dog breed for you, the next step is choosing a reputable breeder. Make sure to visit the parent dogs and the puppies to ensure they are ready to go home (at least 8 weeks old).
You can go online and search for responsible and trusted breeders in your area or connect with friends and colleagues who have the breed you're interested in.
Consider Adoption
There are many purebred dogs and mixed breed dogs that require new living homes in rescue centers and shelters around the country.
Rescuing a dog in need is a great way to get a canine friend and give the dog the much needed support and companionship.
Consult With a Vet or professional
Consult with a vet , a breeder or professional dog trainer for guidance and professional advice. They should give you more helpful information about the breeds you're interested in so you can make a knowledgeable decision.
Regardless of breed, different dogs have different temperaments and may not suit everyone. It is always best to consult with a vet, breeder, or professional dog trainer for professional advice and guidance.
Understanding Your New Puppy
We all love an adore our dogs. They easily worm their way into our lives and into our hearts.
However, it’s important for every first time dog owner to remember:
Dogs are not humans!
They don’t think like we do.
They don't interact with their environment like us.
Each dog is unique an has its own temperament and personality traits
Each puppy comes with its own instincts and has its own feelings and emotions.
If you bear these things in mind, you will be well on your way to gaining a better understanding of your new canine friend.
I hope you’ve found this guide helpful and enlightening, and that you visit often. As you browse around an read more of our articles, your success with your new canine companion is guaranteed!
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