Choosing the right breed of dog for your family

Most families will eventually welcome a four-legged companion into their home. This is not a decision to be taken lightly. Choosing the correct dog breed for your home may mean the difference between full bliss and complete fear. I’ve described the procedures I take before bringing a dog into my house, and I tell my friends and family about them.

The amount of hair you’re willing to put up with is a good place to start. You’ll have to deal with your dog’s shedding in some way. Either he’ll shed or he’ll need grooming. It’s an issue of time vs. money. You can always go for the middle ground and get a dog who only sheds a few of times a year.

Next, think about how much time you have available for walks and fun. Some breeds need a lot of daily activity. They can become quite destructive if they don’t have it. Many behavioral issues may be avoided by selecting a breed with an energy level that matches your family’s time commitment.

Do you want a little dog or a big dog? When deciding on a dog’s size, it’s important to consider the expense of keeping the dog. Feeding a St. Bernard is far more expensive than feeding a Chihuahua. Medical costs for anesthesia will be higher as well, because physicians charge by weight. Groomers and boarding kennels may also charge by weight. The usual rule is that the larger the dog, the more expensive his upkeep will be.

What personality traits are you looking for? If you have children, you should pick a breed that is known for being kind with them. Choose a breed with a natural guard instinct if you want an excellent watch dog.

After you’ve answered these questions, go through any dog breed book and start comparing your desired traits to the breeds mentioned. Make a list of at least 5 breeds that meet your requirements. The next step is to find trustworthy breeders in your region (I recommend starting with your local veterinarian) and contact at least three of them for each breed. Yes, this is going to take some time. However, getting the proper dog is worthwhile. Interview each breeder in depth and share your list of traits with them. Inquire as to whether or not they would suggest their breed to you, and if so, why. Why not, if not? The breeder will be an expert on their particular breed and may be a very useful resource.

You will have a much better image of which breed is suitable for you and your family once you have done your study for all breeds. You’ve previously met with breeders, so you should be able to find at least one from whom you feel comfortable acquiring a dog. If you don’t want a puppy, try adopting one from a breed rescue group or a local animal shelter. So many wonderful dogs of all ages and breed types are in dire need of loving homes. It’s possible that your house is the ideal fit!

I hope you find these suggestions useful in your search for the ideal dog. Take your time, do your homework, and you’ll select the perfect partner for your family. Best wishes!