Pick a Pooch:
Tips on Breed Choices When Getting a New Puppy
Guest Writer: Dixie Somers
Congratulations on your decision to get a new puppy! Dogs provide so much for humans: unconditional love, companionship, exercise, health benefits, and endless amounts of joy. Now you’re faced with the difficult choice among the many different breeds out there today, which can seem overwhelming. The easiest way to begin the breed selection process is to consider your lifestyle. Breeds vary widely in terms of intelligence, size, activity, and personality, so factors like whether you have children, the size of your home, and your expectations of how you will interact with your dog will affect your choice. Below is a guide with tips on breed choices that will help narrow down your choices so that you will be confident that you’re making the right decision.
Apartment Dwellers/Laid-Back Dogs
If you’re looking for a dog that will do well in an apartment, or one that doesn’t need (or want) space to run around, the American Bulldog, Chihuahua, Shih tzu and Chinese Crested would all work well. All of these are small in size and easy-going when it comes to space.
High-Energy Breeds
If you have a decent-sized house with a big yard and you’re looking for an energetic dog, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, or Siberian Husky would all fit that bill. These breeds love exercise and being outside, so owning one would give you some motivation to get some exercise yourself!
Family Dogs
Most dogs like kids, but some don’t know their own strength and size and can easily knock small kids down unintentionally. If you have small children in the house, you might consider a smaller, gentle dog such as a Beagle, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever or a Pug.
Hypo-Allergenic Dogs
Having a dog is still possible if you or someone in your household has allergies. The Poodle, Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier and Havanese are all considered hypo-allergenic. You can also look for dogs that are mixed with any of these breeds (such as a Labradoodle).
Pet-Friendly Dogs
Is the dog you’re looking for your second one? If you have a dog that needs a buddy or cats or other pets in the house, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Norfolk Terriers and Irish Setters are dogs that tend to get along well with other animals.
Sporting Dogs
Need a hunting buddy? Look for any of the Retrievers (for example, Golden, Labrador or Chesapeake Bay), Setters, Pointers or Spaniels. All of these breeds have hunting or retrieving instincts. With a bit of training, they will be a valuable companion happy to help you hunt.
Guard Dogs
Are you looking for a dog that will help keep the household safe? German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pincers and Bullmastiffs are all big breeds that will make any intruder think twice. You could also consider a smaller dog, such as a Toy Poodle or Chihuahua. These dogs are highly sensitive to sound and will gladly bark at any noise that they’re unsure of.
Getting a new puppy is an exciting time. Chances are, you will not regret your decision to get a new dog, no matter which breed you decide on, but picking one that will fit most comfortably into your life and expectations will allow you to bond more closely with them. While temperaments can vary from dog to dog, using these tips should help you to feel comfortable with your decision. Make sure to take your dog to a vet like St Petersburg Veterinarian for a checkup soon after you get them, so that they can start off their life with you on a healthy paw.
Pick a Pooch: Tips on Breed Choices When Getting a New Puppy
GUEST AUTHOR BIO: This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for women’s interests and the home niches. She lives in Arizona with her husband, three beautiful daughters and a spunky Jack Russell Terrier who makes life interesting.
OTHER ARTICLES BY DIXIE:
- 4 Things First Time Dog Owners Need
- How to Choose the Best Food for Your Pet
- Animal Allergies : 5 Helpful Things Pet Owners Should Know
- Pregnant Cat? 5 Ways to Make Her Feel More Comfortable
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