How Can I Decide What Dog Breed Is Best for Me?

Choosing a dog is is a serious matter, a larger undertaking than many people realize. At stake is the physical and emotional welfare of yourself and your dog for up to two decades. Dogs require a great deal of care, time and money. If you are not willing to make a commitment of this magnitude, don't get a dog.

Things You'll Need

  • A book that describes dog breeds
  • A list of characteristics you want in a dog
  • Notebook
  • Pen or pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate whether you can realistically afford a dog. Dogs require food and equipment such as leash, collar, bowls and toys. They need visits to a veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations. You may also want to register your dog, get it tags and a microchip, and have it spayed or neutered. Your pet could easily accrue hospitalization, grooming, training and boarding expenses.

    • 2

      Ask yourself if you have enough time for a dog. Dogs require a lot of attention, which includes walking, taking them to the veterinarian, playing with them, and dealing with unforeseen circumstances.

    • 3

      Study a book about dog breeds, or go onto the Internet and research the breeds you find most attractive. Take notes on temperaments, common illnesses and individual care requirements. Determine how you feel about what you learn and narrow your field of choices to several breeds. At this early stage, maintain an open mind; don't insist on getting a breed just because you like its looks. You need to be able to meets the dog's needs in order for you both to be happy.

    • 4

      Consider the reasons you want a dog. For example, if you are a sportsman who wants a companion and helper in field or stream, learn about the sporting dog breeds. If you are a parent, find out the breeds that have the most suitable temperaments for children.

    • 5

      Decide whether a large or small dog would be best for you. Do you have a rural home with an acre of fenced-in yard or a small apartment in the city? Different breeds have various space requirements. Also, if a member of your household fears big dogs, you don't want to get a large breed.

    • 6

      Determine what grooming is needed for certain dogs. Many breeds require professional grooming several times a year, and some need it every month. Choose a breed that requires simple grooming you can do yourself if you don't want this drain on your time and money.

    • 7

      Find out which breeds require a lot of exercise. If you are a "couch potato," don't get a breed that requires long periods of exercise and play.

    • 8

      Consult the dog breed book or Internet site again and further reduce your selections. If there are others in your household, bring your notebook to a meeting to decide on your two or three favorites.

    • 9

      Visit breeders or rescue groups from which you may wish to purchase your dog. Meet each dog you're interested in, and narrow your choice to the one with which you feel the strongest bond. Hopefully, you will have found the dog that meets your criteria and fits your lifestyle, and that will provide you with many years of companionship.