Many future dog parents must make the tough choice of which dog breed is best for their family. It’s becoming more common to treat dogs as members of the family and practically a need in the modern home. There are a few things to keep in mind to make sure getting a dog isn’t simply a passing trend. The cost of dog food, dog training, and general pet care might vary greatly depending on the breed you decide to have. Finding the appropriate dog breed might seem like a daunting task if you’re new to dog ownership and have no idea what you’re looking for. Here are some things to think about when deciding what kind of dog is best for you:
Size of Your Home
The size of your home should be your first consideration when picking a dog breed. Depending on the size of your house or flat, you may only be able to choose between a small dog and a very large dog. Numerous adorable dog breeds are available nowadays. Diseases like hip malformations and torn ACLs may be more common in giant breeds like Great Danes. Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are just a few examples of little dogs that can be more at risk from injury or the cold than bigger dogs. However, smaller breeds are not always calmer, and big breeds are not necessarily more hostile.
Grooming Needs
There are high-maintenance breeds, like certain terriers, and low-maintenance ones, on the other hand. Dogs need regular brushing, either at home or at the groomer’s shop. Learn as much as you can about the specific requirements of your preferred breed. You should research the breed’s specific care requirements before making a decision so that you can treat your dog as a member of the family and not just another chore. Take excellent care of your dog because, as Pettito puts it, “Dogs are not our whole lives, but they make our lives whole.” Alaskan Malamutes, for instance, have a double-yearly shedding of their very thick coat. Shar-Peis are prone to skin infections because of their many skin folds, which need frequent and meticulous washing. Newfoundlands are characterized by drooling and drooping lips.
Schedule
If you want to give your dog the care it needs, it’s important to choose a breed that works with your schedule. Ask yourself if you have the time to devote to puppy training, how often and for how long you will be able to walk a high-energy dog, if you require a dog that can be left alone throughout the day, or if you want a dog that is more mature and independent.
Family-Friendly Breeds
It’s common knowledge that some breeds are particularly kind to children in the family. The retriever breeds Labrador, Golden, and Flat Coat are usually top choices. Some Terriers, like the Border Terrier and Boxers, have a long history of being devoted family pets. For less active families or elderly people seeking a canine companion, smaller breeds like the Maltese, West Highland White Terrier, or Bichon Frise may be the best option.
Hypoallergenic Breeds
Allergies to dogs and other pets are a common reason why some people can’t have dogs of their own. You could find what you’re searching for in a Poodle or a Poodle mix like a Labradoodle, a Cavapoo, etc. They are available in a wide range of sizes, from toy to giant, and have few, if any, negative traits in common with other domesticated animals.
Intelligent Breeds
Training a dog for a certain task requires a high level of mental acuity on the part of the trainer. The abilities of man’s closest buddy are really astounding. Mountain rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, agility champions, and working farm dogs are all possible goals. Border Collies are very intelligent and take great pleasure in serving their human companions. When it comes to acquiring new skills, some breeds of dogs, such as spaniels, GSDS, and pointers, rank at the top.
Health Risks
Unfortunately, the life expectancy of certain breeds is reduced since they are susceptible to particular illnesses. Breathing problems and other health issues are common in brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs. Joint and bone issues are more common in giant dog breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs.
Choosing the best dog breed for you may come down to prioritizing characteristics that are essential to you. While concepts like trainability and activity requirements may be paramount to some, these factors may not be as significant to others. After all, there is almost surely going to be the ideal dog breed for you, whether you want a watchdog, an energetic companion, or maybe simply something in between.
