A lot of dogs would never be recycled if humans knew how to find the “right” dog . Not the dog they saw in a movie on on TV. Not the puppy with the the big sad eyes. The “right” dog is one that’s a good match for the place it will call home and the humans who live there.
Here are 7 things to consider when looking for the perfect dog to fit your home and lifestyle:
1. What are your expectations?
Make sure your lifestyle and expectations match the breed (or breed mix). If you’re a couch potato and want a mellow companion to sit in your lap, don’t fall for a high-energy breed like a Border Collie or Jack Russell Terrier. If you want a running partner, don’t get a Pug.
2. What is your home environment like?
If you live in an apartment, a less active breed like a Bulldog might be a good fit for you. Remember that size does not determine energy level! Large breeds like the Mastiff or Great Dane need less room to run around than an energetic terrier.
If you have small children, choose a breed with a calm, tolerant disposition. A low-key retriever type typically does much better with excitement and chaos (kids!), than a higher strung Dalmatian or small, fragile dog.
3. How much time and attention can you give?
Some dogs are more demanding than others. Working breeds like Weimaraners and Australian Shepherds are high energy dogs designed to do a specific job. Without birds to retrieve or sheep to herd, you become their employer and it channeling their energy can be a full-time job. In contrast, breeds like the Mastiff or Basset Hounds are happy with downtime and short walks in the park.
4. What is your patience level?
Some dogs learn quickly and others can be… challenging. Labradors and German Shepherds for example, can be easier to train than a Boston Terrier. Be sure to match the breed with the amount of time and energy you are willing devote to training.
5. How well do you know the breed?
Every breed was created to serve a particular purpose. By understanding the history of a breed, you can get a better understanding of what makes the dog tick – and how that ‘ticking’ will shape day to day behavior. Dalmatians, for example, were originally bred to run long distances alongside horse-drawn carriages and are born with energy to burn. Pugs were bred to be lap companions and will cling to you like velcro.
6. Do you have the financial resources to care for a dog?
Pet expenses can add up – be realistic about how much you can afford to spend. Account for food, grooming, boarding, routine and emergency veterinary care and medicines.
7. Do you REALLY want a puppy?
Yes, puppies are ridiculously cute. But puppies are a lot of work and there are many benefits to adopting an adult dog.
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Note: the above considerations apply to both mixed-breed AND purebred dogs. Temperament and activity level can also vary by breed (in our house, the Pug is more energetic than the Dalmatian).
