When I Google ‘dog adoption’ in any form, I get pages of adoption centers wanting me to go to them to “save a dog”. What I find a bit scary is that there are few resources in helping people find the right dog. Isn’t that one reason there are so many pets in the shelters? Other reasons of course are lack of spaying and neutering, moving and loss of income, etc.
But what about those people who are ready to take on the responsibility of owning a dog? What should they do first? Should they get a puppy or an adult dog. What breed, mixed or pure? Here’s one thought on pure breeds – they’re being found in shelters too. Any way you get a dog, you’re saving its life. Because you choose a pure breed or a “designer dog” doesn’t make you a snob. I’ve had both and they were both good dogs, great family pets. The choice of pure or mixed can be made later, really it can.
Lifestyle is a good beginning to deciding what dog to get, your lifestyle. Are you and your family active? Do you hunt, swim, climb, etc.? Can you see yourself doing an activity with a dog? Do you camp, like to walk or jog or are you pretty much a home body and would like the companionship of a dog? Is size important? Do you want a dog on your lap or at your feet while you watch TV or read a book?
Why do you want a dog? Are you more concerned about protection – of your family, stock or house? Is it companionship you’re looking for? Is anyone in your family allergic or sensitive to dog dander? Is your yard fenced? Do you live in an apartment? Who is going to do the training – you or your whole family? Dog training is one of the most important factors in getting a dog. The size and breed aside, you run your household, given a chance – your dog will. Don’t give it that chance. You will pay in clothes, furniture, friends, medical bills (from nipping/biting) and it will cost you the pleasure, vast pleasure of having a dog.
So, you know your lifestyle, now it’s time to check out the breeds. This can be a daunting task at first. It doesn’t have to be though. There are many sites that help with breed selection. Even if you decide on a mixed breed, knowing the characteristics of what you want in a dog is going to help you figure out which breed or mixed breed will suit you best. For instance, some breeds are more sociable than others, some are more independent, etc. Some tend to nip, some bark, others are anti-social while others are every body’s friend.
