Which dog is right for me?

Thinking about getting a new family member? Before rushing out and buying the first wide-eyed furry creature you find, consider the information in this blog. Choosing a dog isn’t just about how cute and cuddly your new pet will be. There are many factors to consider in determining your next addition. Before even researching breeds, you should be able to describe what you want out of the relationship. Ask yourself the following: Do I want a jogging/walking partner? Is low-maintenance important to me? Does it matter how much food my dog will eat? Do I want a dog I can carry without effort? How much room in my home do I have to offer my future pet? The answers to these questions will help to determine what breed is right for you.

Exercise

If a dog that is more than willing to exercise with you is important, consider one of the working breeds such as Akitas, Boxers, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Newfoundlands or Samoyeds. Many of these breeds are employed as police dogs, guard dogs, sled dogs and rescue dogs today. These breeds are extremely intelligent, but independent and sometimes difficult to manage. They might not be the best choice for first time pet owners and should also be professionally trained before adoption. However, for those seeking a companion for their career fields, the working breeds are best suited to help assist in demanding tasks and rescue missions.

Grooming
If low maintenance grooming is a priority, consider breeds with a short and smooth coat. For example, Doberman Pinschers, Dachshunds and Saint Bernards all require minimal grooming. Breeds requiring moderate grooming include Chow Chows, Cocker Spaniels, and American Eskimo Dogs. If grooming is not an issue for you whatsoever, breeds such as the Poodle, Sheepdog and Maltese require daily brushing and frequent hair trimmings.

Size

Size is also a very important factor to consider when choosing a dog. Will you be able to provide enough space and food for your large breed to live comfortably? Or do you prefer a smaller breed, whom you can easily tote around and doesn’t require as much living space? If larger breeds are of interest, some of the largest are Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and Old English Mastiffs, all included in 120 pounds and higher club. If you desire a larger, but not massive dog, Rottweiler’s, German Shepards and Bernese Mountain Dogs will suffice. Medium sized dogs include Border Collies (one of my personal favorites), Huskies, Labradors, Bulldogs and some larger terriers and spaniels.

If you live in a smaller home, consider one of the small or toy breeds. They can range from four to twenty pounds full grown. They require less living space and food. However, most are more energetic and will need a lot of exercise and attention. (My Min Pin is trying to jump on my lap as I type this.) Some breeds are: Dachshunds, Beagles, Pugs, Chihuahuas, Papillions, and Miniature Pinschers.

Finally, the absolute most important thing to consider when choosing a pet is your own capabilities. Are you financially, emotionally and physically capable of caring for an animal? Being a pet owner is a huge responsibility. One must be completely positive that they will be able to afford food and medical costs for the animal, provide a plentiful amount of living space and exercise, and above all else, attention and love. Dogs deserve your love and affection. If you are unable to provide any of these basic necessities, consider waiting until you are completely able to support yourself and a pet.

Hopefully this information will help lead you to your newest, and most compatible best friend!