If you are a genuine dog lover, your heart would surely fall for any shape and size of dog that you lay your eyes upon. However, we all know that we cannot just take in every four-legged friend that we see, as much as we want to.
It is important to take into consideration a lot of things in order to ensure the welfare of the pet that we are taking care of. Choosing the right dog breed for a pet is important not only for you as its human, but mostly for the creature itself.
There are a number of ways by which you can choose the ideal breed of dog for you, especially if it is your first time to get such a pet. Think about and weigh factors such as:
Your lifestyle. Are you the active, outdoorsy type or a steady homebody? Are you a busy career person out all day in the office, or are you a stay-at-home mom perhaps? This will largely help determine which type of dog would be the best choice for you. There are energetic dogs such as huskies, shepherds, and terriers that can catch up with a lot of activities. Meanwhile, toy dogs like poodles, shih tzu, and lhasa apso are those that can keep you good company in a home environment.
Your finances. Taking care of a pet is a serious responsibility, and it includes being financially capable to provide for the animal’s needs—from basic supplies such as food and sustenance, to items and accessories like cages, harnesses, carriers, and specialized dog collars if needed. However, one of the most substantial expenses incurred in pet ownership is related to health. Trips to the vet potentially rack up the biggest costs. It would interest you to know that different dog breeds are susceptible to particular diseases and health conditions.
For example, did you know that bulldogs are prone to developing respiratory problems? Pugs, with their bulging eyes, are obviously susceptible to being injured in this facial area. Meanwhile, breeds with long, floppy ears like cocker spaniels are prone to ear infections. Large breeds like retrievers have been observed to gain weight and become obese quite easily. It is good to be aware of these health issues so that you can be prepared to address them.
Your personality. Dogs have various characters and temperaments that are usually innate to the particular breed that they belong to. As with choosing human friends, selecting a canine companion is bound to be more harmonious and successful if you go with a dog that more or less reflects your own personality. For instance, whippets and greyhounds are quiet and reserved; golden retrievers and Labradors are friendly and boisterous; while German shepherds and Dobermans are courageous and obedient.
You should also consider the personality of other companions in the household, especially family members. The presence of children in the household is a primary consideration when taking in a pet, and there are some breeds that co-exist well with noisy and energetic kids. These are usually beagles, collies, and retrievers. Bulldogs are often portrayed as frightful, but they surprisingly make great companions for young children.
The right dog for you
Apart from these criteria, the best person to help you in your decision is an animal expert such as a breeder or a vet. They are in the best position to guide you through the pros and cons of a particular breed that you may be considering to get. In the end, regardless of the breed of dog that you choose, undivided attention, care, and love is what matters in making sure that you and your pet enjoy years of fulfilling togetherness.