Choosing Your Dog

You have decided to get a new dog and the choices seem endless. Research the breeds you’re interested in well. Ask people who have them and narrow your choices to what fits you. You and the dog will be happiest if you choose one that fits your home and lifestyle mostly as is.

If you’re a person who isn’t real active the typical Border Collie may leave you both frustrated. If you are an on the go person many breeds are typically not. There are exceptions in all breeds, but generally finding a Chihuahua to jog three miles per day with you isn’t fair to you or the dog.

Once you’ve decided on basic breeds begin looking. Generally speaking pet stores are not the best choice for many reasons. Check with local shelters for just pets, and check with reliable breeders.

The shelters have many dogs that need homes, with some statistics indicating the majority of dogs are given up for training issues. Training just takes time! Other reasons for surrender can be poor choice in a pet, moving or other life changes including death of the owner. Normally these will be already spayed or neutered and have vaccinations.

Another option is a reliable breeder. Be prepared to answer some questions and be prepared to ask questions. From a breeder you have the opportunity to get more details. Are the parents health tested? This can be a valuable thing to know. If the dog doesn’t work out or there are genetic health problems will they take him back? Is there a problem with the temperament of either parent? Remember that even in a champion to champion breeding there will not be all show dogs born. Their purebred but not show quality siblings make wonderful pets. Normally they will have their initial vaccinations and worming – if they don’t then keep looking. There is too much heartbreak in losing a puppy to distemper or parvo.

Many times a pet need not have a pedigree. There are many “just dogs” that need homes too, the product of irresponsible owners. The disadvantage to these, from a shelter or otherwise, is you don’t know predicted traits. For example if you get a Shetland Sheepdog you know it will generally stay under 20 pounds or so. If you live in a rental where there is a size limit this is important. That 10 pound mixed breed might be 30 pounds adult size and you have a choice to give him up or move – neither an easy decision but giving him up changes his life forever.

Remember this is a lifetime commitment. Ask questions. Talk to several people, look at several prospects and make a decision. All dogs deserve a permanent home where they are loved – and humans receive all the dog can give back. Make an informed decision!