Many times, after bringing a canine friend home dog owner question themselves “What I did wrong?” or “Did I choose the wrong dog?”. There are no such thing as a wrong/bad dog, just bad owners. If you are deciding to bring a new dog home, match your dog with you and your family lifestyle and your ability to look after it properly. Even though those puppy eyes and wagging tail of a dog can lure you towards them, but owning a dog is a whole lot of work. You need to have lots of patience, dedication, and commitment to adopt and raise a dog. Before adopting a dog, consider what kind of companion you will be, not the breed of dog you should get.
Once you’re sure that you are ready to adopt a dog and can invest your time, care and money into him. You should consider the age, sex, temperament, breed, activity level and size of a dog that best matches your family and home. A well-matched dog with your household increases the chance of happily ever after and minimizes unnecessary problems.
Ask Yourself These 6 Questions
Puppy or Adult?
Owning or adopting a young dog is an adventure. His overloaded cuteness, adorable run, clumsy play and cuddling quickly steal your heart. Puppies come with the potential of a clean slate and a long lifetime which makes training and seeing him grow into a wonderful adult more appealing. However, puppies have lots of energy and keeping him occupied and exercised can be tiring at times. An adult dog has already developed his own set of personality based on his previous family experiences. Adjustment to a new family can take adult dogs weeks instead of days. Less training is required for adult dogs and is more stable than puppies. Whether a puppy or adult, select your dog considering what best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Male or Female?
Female dogs mature more quickly than males which make providing her training when young easy. The cost of spaying a female dog is higher than a cost of castration of a male which creates some challenges. Females dogs go into heat about twice a year and their blood discharge often stains carpet and furniture which can create difficulty for owners. Male dogs are often considered more affectionate than female, but they are also known for showing behavioral problems. Whether male or female, choose your dog considering your preference and positive experience in the past.
Purebred or Mixed breed?
What you want from your dog usually determines whether you are in for a purebred or a mixed breed dog. Each dog breed has his own specific physical features and set of behavioral traits. Purebreds features and behavioral traits are more predictable than those of mixed breeds. When you own a Retriever, you can be sure he will mature to a specified size and will be similar to other retrievers in appearance and temperament. In the case of, mixed breed it’s difficult to ascertain their size, appearance, and temperament. Generally, mixed breed dogs have less genetic faults and deformities than purebred’s due to a certain amount of hybrid vigor (heterosis). If you want to exhibit your dog at events and shows, start out with a purebred. However, if you want a dog as a companion than both mixed or purebred can fill your need perfectly.
Temperament?
While buying or adopting a dog, considering his temperament is critical. A dog with a sound temperament often makes your home lively and fun and his loving behavior makes him welcomed in different circles. Generally, dog’s temperament denotes his unique combination of personality and behavior. Select a happy dog who easily comes to you and wants to follow you when you leave. Avoid shy, snappy and timid dogs. To gain the best sense of a dog’s temperament, pay close attention to how he behaves with other animals. Sometimes you can't judge a dog's temperament on your first meeting and he might turn into being snappy and grumpy. You need to be able to handle his temper and train him to be a good dog
Activity level?
Every dog differs in terms of activity level. Some dogs like Shepherds have high energy level and needs daily exercise. If you are an active person who enjoys being outdoors, then active breeds are the best match for you and your lifestyle. On the other hand, if you are an indoor person whose idea of fun is streaming movies or reading books, a laid-back dog is perfect for you. However, all dogs need a certain amount of exercise to stay healthy. So, owning a laid-back doesn’t mean you don’t have to take him for walks or play session. You should make your decision to buy or own a dog on whether you can handle his energy level and provide him enough quality time.
Size?
The size of a dog is only a matter of preference. Some people are attracted towards large breeds while others prefer small dogs. You may like to own large dogs like Great Dane, but the cost of owning a big dog is comparatively higher. Even though large dogs might need larger beds, bowl, and toys but they can live comfortably in small spaces like apartments. There’s a misconception that large dogs are most aggressive in nature. Some large dogs have the best temperament and friendly nature. Whether you choose large or small dog it’s important to train him, as he can injure someone if not properly trained.
Are you ready to bring home a new dog? If so, then hope you find your perfect furry buddy!