Choosing a Dog Breed

Points to Consider Before Getting a Dog

Becoming a dog owner is an exciting time at any stage of a person’s life and there are so many different breeds to choose from. A dog can be a suitable pet for those from all walks of life however it is of the utmost importance to provide a stable but stimulating environment to keep your pet happy and healthy.

People often choose to own a dog for companionship, for working purposes, for showing or just to get them out and about whether in the town or country. Choosing a dog that suits your lifestyle is very important to save both  owner and pet heartache and stress.

It is unfair to expect a dog to be at home alone if you are out of the house for long periods of time. Maybe you can choose a breed that can accompany you to work or hire a dog walker who can carry out the all important exercise regime. This way the two of you will have each other yet he will still receive the exercise he needs.

If you have health issues yourself you must consider how a dog will affect these. For example if you have arthritis and cannot walk far, then a dog that needs a lot of exercise would be unsuitable or if you have allergies then a breed whose coat does not shed would be ideal.

Animals cost money. Do not forget that pets are living longer now thanks to modern medicine and you may be paying for their upkeep for between 9 and 16 years. There is the initial cost of buying, then the vaccinations, neutering, insurance, food, parasite control and don’t forget the toys, bedding, leads etc; it soon adds up and pet accessories and veterinary fees can vary in price according to quality of product/service and location.

Time and effort is required when training any breed whether puppy or adult and this must be taken into consideration with your personal timetable. Training is all about consistency and repetition. It can be frustrating if you are not getting the best from your dog and often it is that they do not understand what you want them to do rather than deliberately disobeying. Training classes are very popular for dogs of all ages and having a professional give you guidance can make all the difference within even just a few sessions.

Choosing between a puppy and an adult dog is another choice you may have. Having a puppy means that you can mould him from a young age and you have control over what he learns whereas if you take on an older dog they may already have training behind them or habits that they have been taught; both good and bad. It is incorrect to say that an old dog cannot learn new tricks but it is perceived that they take longer than a puppy. Puppies are hard work as they need toilet training, obedience training and take time to settle into a human family.

Rescue dogs have often been in kennels for a long period of time and may have issues that need careful attention. They make loving pets too of course and building up a relationship of trust is rewarding when it pays off. This is often a route for those who do not want a puppy and want to give an abandoned dog a new home.

Some breeds have diseases or medical conditions, which they are prone to, and this should be looked into when choosing. Depending on the condition it can be an ongoing problem which may take time to get to the root of or to treat and may incur may trips to the vets, specialists and high bills to pay.

All of these pointers suggest that the key to a happy dog-owner relationship is to think carefully beforehand about the type of breed that you can give the best possible life to.

See our dog breed section to find out which is best for your lifestyle.