How to Choose Your First Dog

Choosing your first dog can be difficult. It should take a while to decide what kind of dog will best fit with you and your family. Different breeds have different requirements and personalities. Some breeds have a lot of energy, some are known to be stubborn, and some are known to be good with children. Whatever dog you choose for your first dog, you should definitely make sure you have enough time to spend with the dog and the money to pay for supplies and vet visits. Dogs are man's best friend, but it is important to understand the responsibility that comes along with these beloved pets.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog breed book or encyclopedia Veterinarian or dog trainer
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Instructions

  1. How to Choose Your First Dog

    • 1

      Ask yourself and your family several questions about the type of dog you want. Do you want a large or small breed dog? Do you have a lot of time to exercise your dog during the day, or do you need a dog who is a slow mover? Where will your dog sleep and stay when you are not home? Do you have a large room, a crate, or an outside area with shelter? Do you have children who will need a fun-loving, good- natured dog? Are you willing to pay for your dog to be groomed each month, or will you need a dog that you can groom?

    • 2

      Read a dog encyclopedia or dog breed books to see which dogs meet your criteria. Most libraries and bookstores have books on many different kinds of dogs with information on their size, weight, habits, personalities, requirements for exercise and health issues. You can also talk to a veterinarian, dog trainer or someone at the humane society about which dog breed might best fit your family.

    • 3

      Decide what age of dog you would like to adopt or buy. Many people think puppies are so cute, and automatically think they would like to have a puppy. But puppies are a lot of work. They require work on behavior and social skills as well as potty training. Puppies need to be taken outside in the middle of the night. Some people prefer to get a dog that is between 1 and 2 years old because these dogs may already be trained.

    • 4

      Find a breeder who has the type of dog you would like to buy and ask her how to care for the breed. Breeders know many tips and facts about the dogs they raise. They will be able to help you make your final decision if this is the right type of pet for your first dog.

    • 5

      Go to the local humane society if you would like to adopt a dog instead of buy one. The humane society provides as much information as possible about a dog's history. Many people get their first dogs from the humane society because it is cheaper, the dogs have their shots, and they are spayed or neutered.