What Breed of Dog Should I Get?

Take a walk through most any neighborhood and the obvious soon becomes apparent: dogs come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Some bark furiously as you walk by, others stare condescendingly at your choice of wardrobe, and still others nearly turn themselves inside out just to say "hello" with their wagging tails and huge grins. Each dog is an individual, but within each breed are certain characteristics you can use to determine which dog is right for you.

  1. Know the Breed

    • The American Kennel Club (AKC), founded in the late 1800s, focuses on the purebred. The organization categorizes dogs into eight groups: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, herding and "miscellaneous." Within each of these groups is a myriad of breeds to choose from. The AKC website (see Reference) provides information on the standards, temperaments, origins and traits of well over 1,000 breeds. Their site also supplies names of reputable breeders, training resources and information regarding dog clubs in the United States.

      Also check with The American Veterinary Medical Association (see Resource), local veterinarians, friends, reputable breeders and area kennel clubs for more information about the breed you are contemplating. Along with the basics of care and nutrition, a veterinarian can provide information regarding health problems a particular breed might be susceptible to. Some breeds, like the Boxer, are more prone to certain cancers, and Golden Retrievers have a higher incidence of hip problems than many other breeds. These potential ailments can greatly affect the overall cost of caring for your dog and should be considered when determining which breed is right for you.

    Find a Breed That Suits Your Lifestyle

    • There are specific characteristics breeders purposely promote within bloodlines of the purebreds, including temperament. According to AKC standards, the Golden Retriever should exhibit friendliness, reliability and trustworthiness. The Chow Chow is known for its independence and aloofness. The Beagle is expected to be cheerful and curious, while the Basenji is affectionate but can be aloof with strangers. Be sure the expected or desired temperament of a breed meshes with your household.

      The amount of time you are willing to devote to incidentals like grooming and exercise is important. The Afghan Hound and Irish Setter require extensive grooming and, according to the AKC, both are high-energy dogs that need regular exercise. On the other hand, the Rough Collie has a heavy coat but can get by with weekly brushing and, for exercise, will make do with a daily walk. The Beagle requires very little grooming in comparison but scores high on energy.

      Also calculate size and your grocery budget when choosing a breed. Along with the physical space your dog will require, remember that the larger the dog the more he eats. The AKC gives specifics regarding the average height and weight for males and females of each breed. Your veterinarian can tell you which brand of dog food she prefers you use and how much to feed.