How to Choose the Right Breed for You

Choosing a dog can be a very exciting time for all involved, yet it is vital for you to get it right. There are a few things which you and your family must consider before buying a dog, if you are to make the right match and avoid problems later on.

It is imperative that you avoid an impulse buy, as this can lead to heartache and problems for both you and your dog.

Before getting a dog, you must take a look at your budget. It can cost well over $1,000 per year for very basic care, not including things such as vet fees for illness or injury. It is also important to consider your budget when choosing a particular breed. For example, bigger dogs eat more food and need more medication, so the costs for them are higher than for smaller dogs.

One of the most important things to think about is your lifestyle and housing situations. Yard size must be carefully and honestly considered, as larger breeds obviously need more space than smaller ones. Fencing around your property must be secure to prevent them getting out.

Your free time must be carefully reviewed, as time must be devoted to the exercising and taking care of the puppy. In addition, some breeds, such as herding breeds, have more energy and need more exercise than others. For the most part, dogs tend not to run around and exercise themselves, that is your responsibility as an owner. Do you work? Dogs are generally pack animals and not designed to be solitary creatures. If they are left on their own a lot, this can cause bad behavior such as excessive barking, digging and escaping.

Do you have time and money for regular clipping and general grooming? If not, it is best to choose a more low maintenance breed with shorter coat. If you have children, that is also something to consider. Some big breeds too boisterous and can knock children over. Also, some toy breeds can be more susceptible to injury, and younger children may play rough with them, dropping them, for example.

One thing to consider is whether you would like a purebred or a mutt. Purebreds tend to be more predictable with regards to things such as size and temperament. Mutts of unknown parentage can be a bit of a gamble, but they can also make good pets. You may also choose to adopt an older dog, rather than puppy to avoid hard work of raising a young animal. But make sure that the dog has been raised well. Also, some breeds are prone to hereditary health issues, like orthopedic problems or skin allergies. If you want one of these breeds, you need to take into account the time and money which may need to be spent keeping them well.

It can be helpful to go to dog show and look at the breeds. Speak to owners and breeders of breeds which you like.

Dog selecting websites can help. You just input lifestyle factors and it can suggest some breeds which may be appropriate.

While choosing a puppy, look for the bright eyed, confident, alert puppy that is interested in you. Avoid overly shy or timid dogs. Similarly, avoid pushy over assertive ones too.

Taking time to choose the right puppy for you and your circumstances is very beneficial, and will result in you and your dog having a great life together.