Because there are so many different dog breeds, it can be difficult finding the most suitable one for your family. Each type will vary in terms of personality and needs, so it’s important to do your research before deciding. You may want a Yorkie that’s the best guest at your wedding or an outdoor animal that likes plenty of long walks. In this article, we’ll help you choose the best breed of dog for your household.
Do Some Online Research
The internet’s a great resource for anyone looking to find out more about the different dog breeds. It’s worth doing a Google search and viewing blogs and specialist websites. You can find all sorts of information on the various breeds, such as their temperaments, exercise, dietary requirements, etc. This can spare you the heartache of making a wrong decision.
The more research you do, the easier it’ll be to narrow down your requirements. If you’re considering a retriever you can view a field golden vs show golden comparison, including discussions about size, body type, and personality. You can also learn about the coat differences, attitudes towards family and kids, and training aspects.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Different breeds of dogs have different needs in terms of exercise and grooming. This is why you should choose a breed that’ll fit well into your daily life. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering your lifestyle:
- Think about how much time you have to exercise your dog because some breeds need more than others. If you don’t have a lot of time to walk or run your pet, choose a species that doesn’t require as much.
- Some breeds need more grooming than others. If you don’t have a lot of time to brush your dog’s fur, this should help guide your decision.
Separation anxiety is a condition in which a dog experiences extreme distress when separated from its owner. This is important to consider because some breeds are more prone to it than others. If you think you might have to leave your dog alone for long periods of time, choose a breed that’s less likely to experience separation anxiety. Otherwise, you may need to consider paying a dog sitter or dog walker.
Consider Your Kids
If you have children, it’s important to find a dog breed that’s gentle and good-natured. If you have small children, it’s especially important to choose one that’s not aggressive and is unlikely to bite. You’ll also want to consider a dog’s size when choosing a pet. This is because a large dog may unintentionally knock over a small child or scare them.
Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are typically very good with children of all ages. Some other great examples include:
- Beagles
- Basset Hounds
- Collies
- Corgis
- Poodles
- Spaniels
Meet With A Veterinarian
Your local veterinarian can help you take into account factors such as your lifestyle, whether you have other pets in the home, and any health concerns that may need to be considered.
They can also provide information on which breeds tend to do well with children, and which ones may be better suited for a more adult-only household. A veterinarian can also provide guidance and advice once you bring your new pet home (e.g. regarding vaccinations and training).
Take It For A Test Drive!
The best way to find out if a particular breed is a good fit for your family is to find an example dog and spend time with it. This could involve visiting a pet rescue center or taking a friend’s dog for a walk with your family.
Spend some time with the animal you’re considering and get to know them. Observe how they interact with children and other animals. Pay attention to their energy levels and see if they match your family’s lifestyle. Most importantly, ask yourself if this is a breed you can see yourself living with for the next 10-15 years – because that’s how long the average dog lives.
Think About Allergies And Available Space
If you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies, it’s important to take this into consideration when choosing a dog breed. Some pets are known to be hypoallergenic, which means they produce less of the protein that causes allergic reactions. Because they don’t lose as much hair, it means there are fewer allergens in the air and on your furniture. On the other hand, some dogs shed more than others and their dander can trigger allergies (e.g. asthma and other respiratory issues).
In terms of available space, some dog breeds require more room to roam than others. If you live in an apartment or small home, a large breed may not be the best fit (it could become frustrated, agitated, and even destructive). Some good choices for smaller homes include:
- Chihuahuas
- Pugs
- Shih Tzus
- Bulldogs
- Yorkshire Terriers
Think About Finance
The cost of buying a purebred puppy varies depending on the breed, but they’re generally more expensive than mixed breeds. It may be that you plan on getting a rescue pet for free. In this scenario there could be a host of different challenges (e.g. regarding behavior and health), so make sure you know what you’re taking on.
Some breeds may require specialized care which can be costly. For example, pugs are prone to respiratory problems and need to be kept cool in warm weather. Caring for any breed includes regular vet check-ups and vaccinations. Dogs also need to be fed high-quality food and may require supplements if they have any health problems. All of these costs need to be considered before getting a dog – even more so if you’re taking on an older pet.
As you can see, there are lots of things for you to consider before you take on this additional responsibility. If you choose the right breed, your new pet will have a happy life and become a much-loved member of your family. It’ll be content in your home, and safe around your kids and friends.
