Instructions
Consider the health of all the members in your household when deciding on a dog breed. Check to see if anyone has allergies because a dog could very well cause them to have a negative reaction. Research the temperament of the dog breed you're considering to see if it fits your lifestyle. Decide if you will be spending a lot of time away from home because some dogs breeds are very energetic and won't hesitate to make a mess as soon as they're out of the eyesight of their owners.
Decide how much you're willing to spend when purchasing a dog breed. While some dogs can be obtained free of charge, others can set you back a few thousand dollars easily. Consider not only the price of the dog but how much it will cost to take care of it as well. A smaller breed will not be nearly as expensive to feed as some of the much larger breeds. Think about things like toys, supplies, and any other expenses that come with the particular breed you're interested in before making your decision.
Consider the size of the dog breed and decide what's best for your living condition. Large dogs need space and they may not be the ideal choice if your living space is limited. Larger breeds may also knock over elderly people if you have any living with you. Decide if a larger breed will obey your commands because some breeds require their owner to have a firm voice before they'll submit to them. Pick smaller breeds carefully as well. Children are more likely be bitten by smaller dogs because they are injured more easily than larger dogs and bite to protect themselves.
Decide how much time you want to spend grooming your dog or picking up pet hair. Some dog breeds are known for shedding lots of hair while others rarely shed at all. Check the length of the coat for the dog breed you're deciding on. Dog breeds that have longer coats need more effort to keep them maintained. Check to see if the dog breed you want is equipped for the environment you live in. Some breeds can't survive certain climates if left outside.
How to Find the Perfect Dog Breed for You
There's no such thing as the perfect dog. However, there may be a perfect dog for you. Many things should be considered when trying to select a dog breed. The wrong choice could leave you with a dog that grows much too large to keep inside as you originally planned. The wrong choice could also leave you with a dog that doesn't bark when you intended for it to warn you of strangers approaching. Issues like these make it important to do some research before selecting a dog.