Whenever people set out to choose a new dog, the appearance of the dog breed can be the most important factor in their selection. This is the absolute wrong way to choose a new dog. This is one of the reasons so many dogs end up in shelters. People fail to match the breed with their own activity level or temperament. When preparing to bring a new puppy into your household, do not do like so many other people. Make it your goal to choose a puppy that is as perfect for you and your family as you possibly can. Think about previous dogs you have owned and the experiences you had with him or her. How much time was required to groom, train or exercise your dog. Did the breed have any special health issues that caused an unusual financial outlay to occur? Did the dog require a large, fenced yard and can that be provided for your new puppy?
When choosing your new companion, consider the type relationship you want with your dog. Certain breeds are more dependent than others and love to spend every minute around their owners. These dog breeds can be affectionate and loving but require lots of attention. Other breeds are more aloof and tend to make better watch dogs and will likely spend much of their time in the yard. Consider the amount of time you can spend exercising with the dog. Larger dogs require longer, higher intensity walks than smaller breed dogs. If you do not like to exercise, than a large dog is truly not for you.
Think about things such as grooming, training, and the amount of room that you have. Long haired dogs tend to shed more and require lots of brushing. If you live in an area where your weather is extremely hot and humid during the summer, will the dog require a haircut to help him stay cooler during this period. Will your choice of dog breed require professional grooming periodically or is brushing adequate to keep him looking good. As far as training, certain dog breeds just require less training than others and may be a better choice for an inexperienced dog owner. Other breeds will require professional dog obedience training to assure they do not become unruly and a menace to the neighborhood. Also, consider your living situation. If you live in a tiny apartment on the upper floors of a high rise building, you might want to pass on that cute little Great Dane puppy and consider a teacup poodle.
Whichever dog breed you are considering, take the time to research the characteristics and expected temperament of the dogs you are considering. Speak with family and friends and ask if they have had any experience with the dogs you are considering. Consider visiting a local dog trainer and ask them what dog breeds they feel are easiest to train and make the best pets. Remember that all puppies are cute, but they also all grow up to be dogs. Most of all, look at yourself and your situation and make sure when you bring home that cute little puppy that you are ready to make a commitment to the care and feeding of your new dog for its entire lifetime. With the proper research and commitment, you are sure to find the breed of dog that provide many years of loyal companionship, fun and happiness for you and the rest of your family.
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