Which dog breed should I pick; and should I be picking a puppy or choosing a dog? Puppies are so cute and playful and they are so much fun to watch. But a dog that's already grown can be a great benefit too. You may feel that you are not safe in your neighborhood and having a grown dog to protect you and your children is very comforting. Point is that choosing a puppy and picking a dog breed is the first step in your search.
Imagine that you could have any dog in the world; what would you want to bring home? Think of the thoughtful daughter that bought her lonely mother a Great Dane because it was such a cute puppy, and what a great companion it would be for mom. Now, a year later you see a big dog dragging around a little old lady. The moral to remember; a puppy will not always be a puppy. I know you're thinking that's common sense, but not planning ahead fills animal shelters with unwanted dogs. You must decide which dog breeds fit your needs considering the dogs size, friendliness and exercise requirements.
So instead of filling you with information about what I think is your best choice, I'm going to ask you to take this test, and then have everyone else in your family take it too. Getting your whole family involved with picking a puppy or choosing a dog will prove to be a fun family project that will not only help your kids with decision making, but will help them become involved with caring for the dog and sharing responsibilities. So print this article and take the test. When you are done compare the answers with your family and hopefully you will be able to narrow your search to find the perfect dog breed for you and your family.
Do you have a small apartment, or a house with a fenced yard? (Small or Large Breed)
Will your dog have an impact on other pets in the house? (Temperament)
Does anyone in your family have severe allergies? (Some dogs cause less allergic reactions)
What function will this dog serve as a member of the family? (Guard dog or companion)
Will the dog live inside or outside your home? (Be realistic)
Who will be the primary caretaker of the dog and how much time can that person commit to the training and care of him?
How much time will other members of the family commit to the care and grooming of your dog?
How much time do you have to exercise and play with your dog?
Should your dog be allowed on the furniture to snuggle up to you?
How do you want this dog to behave, now and a year from now? (Dog Training)
Once you have these basic questions answered, cross out any dog breed that does not fit, and make a list of the dog breeds that do. A visit to the many information sites, (like my website), will help you find the dog breed that you are looking for. Other things to consider when choosing a puppy or picking a dog, are the costs that are associated with owning a dog, like food, dog supplies, and vet bills. Usually the larger the dog the more expensive they will be. Some dogs are more prone to certain types of health issues, like hip dysplasia or other ailments and the cost of medication should be figured in. Research the common medical conditions for the dog breed that you select.
After picking a dog you should find a good book on dog training. I have owned dogs all my life and can promise you that a trained dog is a more healthy and happy animal than an untrained dog, and much more pleasurable to be around. The small costs of buying a dog training book or program are well worth the investment.
Potty training your dog will be the first interaction you have with your dog, and if you get it right, training your dog to sit, stay, fetch and heel will go a lot smoother. Many people today live in apartments with no real access to a yard, so indoor potty training is the only way to go. This is another cost factor to consider. Indoor potty training will require a doggy potty and doggy potty pellets, and this can be expensive. Drawbacks are that some dogs like to eat the pellets; the pellets can be expensive to always replenish, they are bulky and have to be stored. Many dogs like to kick their legs after going potty and this spreads the pellets around which can be a bit messy. Lastly, you should watch that the dog doesn't walk through his droppings and track it through your house.
All said, choosing a dog is a fun first step; but owning a dog is a rich and rewarding experience for children and for yourself. There is really nothing like bringing home a new best friend that will always have unconditional love and devotion to you and your family.
Want to watch adorable short video's of Dogs & Puppies? Look on our menu under Dog Breeds. Want more Free Dog Training Tips? Visit The Dogs Park and you will find practical information on dogs; from Problem Dog Behavior to the latest information on Dog Training Videos
With new and fresh dog related information being added all the time; you are sure to find what you need to be successful in all your dog training efforts. Want even more? Join our informational newsletter and get a Free e-Book! Visit us at now at http://TheDogsPark.com
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