Choosing the Right Dog

Personality

• Some dogs are submissive and others are dominant. Submissive dogs are often easier to train while a dominant dog will require a firmer hand. Herding dogs, like German shepherds, are generally more strong-willed and sporting dogs, like golden retrievers, are often easier to train.

  Also consider the dog's energy level. If you enjoy spending more time on the couch, than playing in the park, choose a dog that won't mind taking it easy.

Age/Size

• Puppies are cute, but they are full of energy and require lots of attention. If you're busy with work and other obligations, consider getting an older dog that can be left alone for longer periods of time.

  Do you own a house with plenty of space for a big dog, or do you live in a small apartment? A smaller dog, like a Chihuahua, is a better size for apartment dwellers than a Great Dane.

Purebred or mixed breed

• Choosing a purebred dog gives you the advantage of knowing what its temperament will be and how big it will get. But purebreds are often expensive, and they can have genetic defects that are passed on from generation to generation.

  Mixed breeds don't have the medical problems found in purebreds, and millions can be found in shelters, waiting for a good home. You can usually tell which breeds are present in a mixed breed pup and predict what their temperament and size will be.

Coat maintenance

• A dog's coat may not seem important, but you will think otherwise when you discover everything you own is covered in dog hair. Although most dogs shed, some shed more than others, and the fur of a long-haired dog is usually more conspicuous. Dogs with long coats are also higher maintenance, requiring more brushing and bathing.