Which Dog Breed You Should Pick | We’ve long heard that, ‘a dog is a man’s best friend’. From keeping you physically active and on your feet to helping you meet new people and socialize, having a dog benefits both your physical and mental health. Whether it’s a long walk on an early spring morning or how they greet you with their constant tail-wagging after you return home from a tiring day at work, even the most mundane of scenarios becomes fun when you have your little 4-legged companion around.
Most people underestimate the impact a dog can have on their owner. It’s a long-term commitment since your fur baby will be relying on you for the next several years to come. Each breed has its own quirks and challenges, and selecting the right breed is crucial to you and your dog’s happiness. So before you step out to get a dog, here are some tips you should consider to find the right type of dog for you!
Lifestyle:
The first step towards finding the right breed for you is to assess your current lifestyle. How much time and attention you can dedicate to your dog depends on your average day-to-day schedule. If you’re a person with a hectic routine, then you might want to consider getting a senior independent dog who can handle being left alone for most of the day. Younger pups are active. They not only require more training but also long walks and higher-energy consuming activities. Another factor to keep in mind is the number of people you have in your household, especially if you have any children or older relatives. Hypoallergenic dog breeds like Poodles, Maltese, Basenji and Shih Tzu are more suited for people with allergies or asthma.
Size:
Deciding which sized dog you should get depends largely on your living conditions. How much space do you have? How much room can you spare? These are important questions one should evaluate before getting any pet. Larger dog breeds like Great Danes require more space to move around; they are more suited for people with bigger houses and backyards. Since these types of dogs are more prone to physical ailments, open space for physical activity serves them well. However, breed like Chihuahua is more appropriate if you have a smaller living space. These dogs require more attention as they are extremely vulnerable.
Expenses:
Your budget plays a key role in the journey to find a dog that is your perfect match! The larger the dog, the more expenses it is bound to have. You have to set aside a budget not just for dog food and other dog supplies but also their grooming, medical needs and any potential treatments they may require.
Energy level:
Finding a dog whose activity level complements yours will benefit you greatly in the long run. The best match for you is a dog whose needs are similar to yours. A person with an adventurous personality and an active lifestyle can give more attention to a fur-ball that has high energy levels. For people who are frequent hikers, runners and campers Labradors and Golden retrievers can serve as great companions. On the other hand, a person who is always on the go and has a hectic schedule is likely to get exhausted by a dog this energetic. For them, breeds like Bulldog, Pug and Shih Tzu are more suitable because they are more content being lazy lap dogs and couch potatoes.
Grooming requirements:
All dogs require basic grooming, but some dog breeds tend to be more high maintenance as compared to the rest. The type of hair coat a dog has plays a major role in its fur shedding and grooming needs. As the dog matures, the hair coat undergoes several changes. Breeds like Dachshund and Newfoundland are the easiest dogs to deal with since they have a Smooth coat. Regular brushing and bathing will keep them looking fresh and healthy. Dogs with long coat and wire coat demand more time and attention especially during the shedding season. Dog breeds like Poodles, German shepherds, and Irish wolfhounds have extensive grooming routines that need to be followed for their physical wellbeing. They need to be trimmed and combed regularly, bathed with detangling shampoo to avoid pain and treated with conditioners to keep their fur soft and shiny.
Age:
A dog’s personality typically changes over the course of puppyhood, adolescence and adulthood. Younger dogs have hyper temperaments and require tons of training in their early months. Having patience around them is a must since they are likely to have plenty of accidents in the house. They may break items, ruin your furniture and chew your personal belongings. All these behavioral issues can be solved with consistent training. Older dogs are a less of a gamble since you are usually aware of their medical history, true energy level, attitude and temperament. Since they’ve socialized to some extent, they are easier to train and adjust comfortably in their surroundings.
Another option to consider is senior dogs. Although these dogs may not have high energy levels, they are still loyal companions. They are often left out and forgotten. They end up spending their lives in shelter homes. Adopting them is the kindest thing you can do for these creatures. By showing them empathy and love, you can add joy to the golden years of their lives. Unlike younger and adult dogs, they may not be with you for a long but the bond you form with these animals lasts a lifetime.
Owing a dog comes with its fair share of responsibilities. You need to have patience and invest a lot of time into their growth and wellbeing. However, dogs are exquisite creatures who will always repay your love ten-fold. Their loyalty knows no bounds. Owning a dog means years of a happy and fulfilling life together as they’ll love you unconditionally and provide support in the toughest of times.
by Bobby J Davidson
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