Delicious
Digg
Google
YahooWhen you are contemplating buying a purebred dog, choosing the right breed for your family and lifestyle is essential. Thousands of dogs end up in shelters every year, many because their owners chose a breed that was too much for them to handle, or that just didn't suit their lifestyle. They fell in love with a puppy because it was cute, and didn't put much thought into what that puppy might be like as an adult dog.
There is more to breed choice than just appearances, and it's not fair to you or the dog if you make an irresponsible decision. Before you bring a dog home, there are questions you should ask yourself to ensure that the dog will easily become a keeper.
Have you done your homework? Make sure that you educate yourself on any breed you might be considering. There are plenty of books on the subject and numerous websites to help you find all the information you need. The beauty in choosing a purebred dog is that you can choose their size, temperament, coat, energy level, etc. There is virtually a breed for every lifestyle, but it's just a matter of finding the one that fits you. Don't fall in love with a breed because of its appearance. Be realistic about your choice, and you'll be much happier with the outcome.
How active is your lifestyle? Are you fairly active or sedentary? Every dog, no matter how big or small, needs a walk every day, but some need far less exercise than others to be happy and healthy. Hunting breeds like Labrador Retrievers, or herding breeds like Collies are high-energy breeds that require at least an hour of exercise per day, especially when they are young. They would be happiest with someone who runs, bicycles, skates, or engages in some other vigorous activity every day and is willing to take the dog along. But many toy breeds like the Pekingese can be happy with a simple 20-minute jaunt around the neighborhood. If you are unable to walk a dog, do you know someone who can?
How much space do you have? Do you live in an apartment or a house? Country or city? Keep in mind what the size of the dog will be when it is full grown and the space you have to offer. Keeping a St. Bernard in a small apartment is likely to make you both feel crowded. If you can't provide a yard for a dog to run around in, stick with the smallest breeds. Larger breeds will quickly go crazy in a confined space and will drive you crazy along with them.
Have you considered the amount of grooming required? How much time and money are you willing to spend on grooming your purebred dog? Most short-haired breeds shed just as much as long-haired breeds, just not as noticeably, and some breeds like poodles don't shed at all, but still require extensive daily and monthly grooming. All long-haired breeds (though some shed and some don't) always need some daily grooming. If you simply can't stand to find dog hair on your furniture, don't buy a shedding breed, and be sure the dog's grooming requirements fit your schedule and pocketbook.
Do you live alone? How many people will be able to care for and spend time with the dog? Keeping a dog cooped up all day while you're at work isn't fair and may result in damage to your possessions if it goes on too long. Dogs are social creatures and need companionship just like humans. Tiny breeds like Yorkshire Terriers have a very small bladder and may need to go outside every couple of hours. If you work outside your home and you live alone, make sure you will be able to get home as often as possible to spend time with your pet.
Do you have children? All puppies seem to love small children, but when some breeds grow to adulthood, they have less and less tolerance for the little ones. Some aloof breeds like Dachshunds and Dobermans are not the best breeds to have around them, but breeds like Golden Retrievers have amazing tolerance and truly enjoy the little ones. If you have small children, make sure the breed you choose is child-friendly.
What was the dog originally bred for? It may seem a strange question to ask, but it's very important to the well-being of the dog and your sanity. The task that the breed was originally bred for is key in understanding its behavior and what it really needs from its owner.
Beagles are hunting dogs that hunt by scent. Hiding food or a toy in the backyard for them to find can keep them occupied and happy for a long time. Huskies were bred to pull sleds, but they would probably be just as happy pulling the kids around the yard on an inner tube. Working breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds need a job to do every day. It could be something as simple as a long game of fetch, or carrying a hiking backpack up a mountain, but they are extremely intelligent and get bored easily.
Consider what your breed was bred to do and try to find creative ways to help it use those traits. The result will be a very happy dog and owner.
Should you choose a puppy or older dog? Many people like the idea of buying a cute, sweet little puppy for their household, but keep in mind that a puppy is a baby that needs plenty of care in the beginning, has no social skills, and doesn't know how to behave. It must be taught everything just like a small child and requires more of your focused time. If you have small children, make sure that your puppy will have plenty of down time away from them as a puppy (like a baby) needs plenty of rest. If you opt for the puppy, make sure you're ready to be a full-time parent to a four-legged child.
Many times an adult dog is already toilet-trained and behaves well in the house without much work. If you are an older person looking for a companion that can move right into your home without much extra effort and training, an older dog might be the choice for you. There are plenty of older dogs at your local animal shelter that need homes.
What diseases is the breed predisposed to? This is a tough question that needs to be addressed. All purebreds are prone to certain diseases. Some breeds are predisposed to diseases that you may not feel that you can deal with, such as diabetes, which may require insulin shots, or hip dysplasia which can sometimes cripple the dog, and both can leave your finances strained from veterinary bills. Be sure to research all the diseases your breed might be prone to and decide if your emotions and your pocketbook can withstand the possiblity of that burden. It's possible that nothing bad will ever happen, but you need to be prepared for whatever may come.
Dogs aren't disposeable, and they deserve a good home where they are loved and cared for. Choosing the right breed is an important step in ensuring that your puppy becomes a permanent member of your family.
