Questions You Should Ask When Choosing a Dog

Does the Dog Like Children and Pets?

• Families should definitely ensure that the dog is friendly with children and other pets. Many dogs are raised around other pets and kids, making them comfortable and not nervous or aggressive toward them. On the other hand, a dog who has had minimal exposure to young children and other animals may not know how to handle their behavior. This could lead to aggression problems or even injuries from biting.

What are the Exercise Needs?

• Different types of dogs have different energy levels, and it's important that potential owners are aware of the level of exercise the dog will require in order to live healthily. A dog's energy level will need to be met with appropriate living spaces; for example, a large dog with lots of energy will live happily in a large home with a fenced yard. A smaller, less energetic dog may be fine in an apartment or home with less space. Some dogs require multiple walks every day, which can be too much for certain owners. It's important that families are aware of a dog's exercise need so that they can commit to meething those needs on a daily basis.

Are There Behavioral Problems?

• Potential dog owners must be made aware of any behavioral problems that the dog has. Some dogs are territorial, and while loving to family members, they may be aggressive towards strangers or bark excessively at people walking near the home. Other dogs have aggressive or dominant behavior toward family members, meaning that owners will have to be consistent and be able to teach the dog who is in charge.

How Old is the Dog?

• Consider the age of the dog, depending on the needs of the owner. Rescuing an older dog can save the dog's life and reduce exercise needs, but it is important to realize that an older dog may develop health issues or not live many years after coming home. On the other hand, puppies are very high need, and busy people may not have the time and energy required to train and care for the puppy until it reaches maturity at 1 to 2 years of age.

What are the Health Risks?

• Each breed of dog comes with its own health risks. Some breeds commonly develop hip problems, while others are likely to go blind later in life. Owners must be aware of these possibilities early on so that they can expect them and educate themselves on the treatment options. Pet ownership may end up very expensive as their health worsens. Owners must be prepared and equipped to handle those expenses.

How Big is the Dog?

• If the dog is adopted as a puppy, the question of size is important. Many people bring home puppies only to have them grow too large. Ask the breeder about the size of the parents and an estimation of how big the puppy will grow. Owners should determine whether they are capable to care for the dog or if the adult size will lead to problems with children, house care or home size.

What is the Dog's Background?

• Older, adopted dogs typically have a back story about how they ended up in a shelter. The back story should be learned early on, along with any resulting difficulties that the dog experiences. Some dogs go into shelters from situations of abuse, meaning that they will likely be fearful of new owners or have anxieties. Potential owners must be education on how to handle dogs that come from abuse or neglect, or they may end up overwhelmed with the dog's personality traits.