Instructions
Determine what you require from a dog. Are you considering getting a dog for protection. Then you want to stick to bigger and more aggressive breeds like Rottweilers, German Shepherds or Pitt Bulls. Also male dogs are usually more aggressive than female dogs. If you are looking for a companion to snuggle with in bed, it is wise to select a small-breed of dog like a Chihuahua or Pomeranian. All dogs need affection, but larger dogs will take up more room in your bed.
Understand what kind of family environment you have. Pets are not objects and so therefore require certain things in order to lead a productive, healthy and happy life. Do you have small children that will pester the dog or be pestered or injured by the dog? If so consider getting a dog that is calm-natured and extremely socialized. Golden Retrievers, Collies, Pugs and Boxers generally get along great with children. Other breeds like the Dalmatian and Kerry Blue Terrier are less tolerant. If you have other pets, you want to select a dog that gets along with other animals. If you live alone, and have no other pets in your home, these questions may not be as important.
Estimate how much attention can you offer a dog. Certain breeds of dogs require more attention in order to be successful and happy. Portuguese Water Dogs, Shelties and Border Collies are high-energy breeds that require a lot of attention and exercise. Mastiff and Maltese are calmer breeds who will not require as many walks to the park. If you are a person who is extremely busy with work or activities, you should reconsider getting a dog. All dogs require attention and exercise.
Consider how much patience you have for a dog. Some breeds are easier to train than others. Labradors and English Springer Spaniels are easier to train than Boston Terriers, which are more difficult to train.
Be aware of the living environment that you have to offer. Big dogs require lots of space to run and play. Is your yard big enough to accommodate a larger dog? Make sure your yard is dog friendly before you consider a dog that you want to primarily keep outdoors. If you have worked tirelessly to create a perfectly manicured backyard, certain breeds like Pitt Bulls are known to be destructive. If you are keeping your dog outdoors, be aware of weather conditions that may affect its health. Weather that is extremely cold is not okay for breeds like Chihuahuas that have short hair.
Research the dog's breed. According to PetPlace, "Each breed has his own history and reason for being that has become part of his genetic code. The basset hound was bred to diligently track rabbits, deer and other game; the Great Pyrenees to protect livestock from foxes and other predators; the Labrador retriever as a hunter's helper; and the Old English sheepdog to drive sheep and cattle to market." Understanding why a breed was bred will help you to find a dog with the correct temperament and agility that you desire.
Calculate your financial resources. Larger dogs eat more than smaller dogs and will require more financial resources allocated toward their food expenses. Chows require more grooming then Pitt Bulls, and will require more money to be allocated to grooming services. All dogs are prone to suffer from an illness at some point in their lives. Will you have the money to pay for visits to the vet? Certain breeds are more prone to suffer from certain illness. Dalmatians are more prone to suffer from deafness, while German Shepherds and St. Bernard's have a tendency to be afflicted with hip dysplasia.
How to Select the Right Dog for Your Family
Selecting the right dog for your family can be tough. Finding the right dog to satisfy your family's needs is critical to developing a healthy relationship with your dog. Certain breeds of dogs will naturally be more in tune with your lifestyle, needs and wants than others. Also it is important to consider if you can meet the dog's needs. Certain dogs and/or breeds require more maintenance, more attention or more affection than others.