Choosing a Pet Dog: What Breed is Right for Me?
We see a cute puppy, fall in love with it, and take it home. We allow our hearts to dictate our decision-making process and overlook one critical question: are you and the breed a good match? It's important to avoid making sweeping generalizations about all dogs and keep in mind that specific dog breeds have unique needs. Some may adapt well to you and your home situation, while others will not. |
Know Thyself Before Getting a New Dog Selecting a new pet pooch should not be taken lightly or done on the spur of the moment, especially since canines can live beyond ten years on average. It's important to assess your home situation, personality and lifestyle before you head out to the pet shop. |
Sounds like a tall order, but it will steer you towards the right type of dog and help prevent unnecessary problems in the long run. Too often, dogs are returned or abandoned because they just did not fit into the lifestyles of dog owners. |
Not all Breeds Are the Same Know that there are certain dog breeds that are very comfortable living in small areas, such as Bichons, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Poodles, and others, like Jack Russell Terriers and Border Collies, who need lots of space and long walks. So practice due diligence by researching dog breeds, asking family, friends or neighbours who have dogs, and consulting experts. |
Other Considerations In terms of your financial situation, the cost of feeding of your companion is proportional to its size. For example, a 10-kg (22-lb) dog will eat about 150 g (5 oz) of dry food per day, while a 30-kg (66-lb) dog will eat 400 g (14 oz). |
Here are other questions that you and your family should ask before getting a new dog:
There are many more questions that you should ask yourself before making the final decision. Be objective and practical as much as possible. Try to curb your emotions, as the initial excitement of seeing a cute little puppy will inevitably go away once practical issues arise. If you have a family, everyone should actively participate in the decision-making process, as dog care is a shared family responsibility. |