Choosing the Right Dog to Fit Your Lifestyle

There are many different breeds of dogs out there, however not all of them may be suited to your lifestyle. As obedience trainers, we find at times that owners have not chosen a breed that will fit well into their lives. Before choosing the dog you want, you should do some research on the breed you have selected. The following is a list of questions that will provide you a good foundation on which to base your final decision:

1) Will the dog have to spend a large part of the day alone?

2) Do you have preschool or teenage children at home?

3) Do you own or are you renting?

4) What type of energy level do you want the dog to have?

5) Do you want a long-coated or short-coated dog?

6) Is shedding a problem?

7) Are you looking for a dog that trains easily or do you want one that is more challenging?

8) Are you able to handle the financial responsibility of making sure that the dog has veterinary care, proper grooming, flea and heart protection and obedience training?

9) How much yard space do you have available or will you need to walk your dog to exercise?

10) What size dog are you looking for?

There are answers to problems you may encounter after selecting your new friend. For instance, for owners who work long hours, there are daycare centers available. This also helps your dog learn to socialize with other dogs and people. Professional grooming and obedience classes are options that will not only save you time and energy, but also aid in your dogs health and well being. There are herding breeds, non sporting, sporting, toy, terrier, hound, and working breeds, and lets not forget the all American mix breed. It is very important to do research on the breed you have chosen. Many of our purebred breeds have been over bred, causing genetic flaws in the animal. Take time to look into the background of the breeder and the stock they use to breed with. Check with a veterinarian about what to look for and what to look out for. Finally you can get help on finding the right dog by talking with your local veterinarian, consulting with professional dog trainers and doing your own research on the internet. Take advantage of the knowledge that these sources can provide before making your final decision as it can make adding the new member to your family a much easier transition. Best wishes on finding your new family member. Compliments of dogsRus dog training (727) 384-8231.