The decision to bring a puppy home generates a lot of excitement. But it is not a decision to be taken lightly. Choosing the perfect dog breed for your family can mean years of fun and companionship. The wrong breed for your family can result in an unhappy dog and unhappy you with lots of heartbreak on both sides.
So, how do you know what dog is right for your family? There are several things to keep in mind. Here are some tips on finding the best dog breed for you.
If you’re looking to bring home a purebred puppy, there is lots of information available about each breed's characteristics and traits. You can rely on the expertise of others and find out what to expect with each breed. Puppy Hero is going to be adding tons of information about different breeds, including how each breed will do in every state of the US. If you already have a breed in mind, do your research so that your expectations match your puppy’s temperament.
Different breeds fit better into different lifestyles. For example, some breeds need a lot of exercise and will fit well with someone who leads a very active lifestyle. There are dog breeds that are ideally suited to activities like running and hiking. Other breeds don’t need as much exercise and can do well with a more laidback person. Whether you have children or plan to have children and the ages of your children are also important factors. The best dogs for young kids are ones that are playful, trainable, patient, and naturally protective.
Your dog will thrive if you give it lots of care and attention. But there are wide variations between breeds. Some breeds need a lot of attention and will follow you around the house. Others are more independent and can keep themselves entertained. You need time to train and socialize and groom your dog – some breeds need more of a time commitment for these things than others. Keep in mind things like how much time you spend at home and how often you travel out of town. You will need to make plans for your dog during these times and the best dog breed for your family is one that fits your specific lifestyle.
Some breeds are indoor dogs and don’t need to spend much time outdoors. Other dog breeds love to explore and roam free and needs lots of outdoor space. If you live in a small apartment, the average size of the dog breed you’re considering will be important. It might become challenging to share a small living space with a very large dog. You also need to consider things like shedding and how much it bothers you.
The cost of your purebred puppy is just the beginning. You’ll have to buy pet supplies, dog food, and pay for vet visits – both regular exams and shots as well as unexpected ones. While some breeds are hardy, others are more prone to health issues. Also, some dog breeds need regular grooming, so that’s another thing to take into consideration. Make sure you understand the financial implications of the dog breed you’re thinking of getting.
Once you have considered the factors mentioned above, you’ll start to narrow down your choices in dog breeds. For example, if you’re looking for a sociable and affectionate breed that’s family-friendly, medium sized, needs little grooming, and requires moderate exercise, a Labrador Retriever might be your best bet, provided you don’t mind shedding.
Stay tuned to the Puppy Hero blog for more interesting and useful information on dog breeds and dog care.
08 March, 2022