What Breed of Dog Should I Get?

Photo byBook Cover off of Amazon Website

Besides basic care, we often get asked about different breeds of dogs and cats. Clients want to make sure that they get the right dog or cat for their life, so they always ask to see if we can help them.

I recently wrote an article about figuring out what breed of cat you should get. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

I know that you wanted to know about breeds, so I wrote another article about choosing the right breed of cat. Here is the article if you haven’t had a chance to read it.

Now, when it comes to choosing the right breed of dog, it is similar to finding the right cat. Breed isn’t as important as some of the other factors.

Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute puppy that you find!

You should consider the size of the dog that you are going to have. Puppies can be deceiving. Most puppies aren't going to stay as little as they are now. You could get a puppy that grows up to be five pounds all of the way up to over one hundred pounds!

If you live in a smaller home, you are not going to want to get a dog that is really big. A smaller dog will still be able to get plenty of energy out just running around your home.

Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute puppy that you find!

You also need to think about your lifestyle. Do you have the energy for a puppy who needs to be played with constantly? Are you going to be able to work and then come home and play with a new puppy for a few hours? Or would you prefer an older or more laidback dog that would be happy to sit on the couch every night?

Are you into hiking and want a companion to spend hours on the trail with a week? Do you want a walking companion for daily walks around the neighborhood? Do you have a fenced-in backyard where a dog can run around and play?

If you have a lot of guests, you are going to want a dog or puppy that is as social as you are. If you want to be able to take your dog everywhere, you are going to need a more laid-back dog!

Though you may like shaggy dogs, you need to think about the amount of grooming your new dog may need. Though many dogs need regular baths and brushing, there are some dogs that require more! Many dogs, like smaller dogs and doodles, need regular grooming appointments every six to twelve weeks. If you don't have the funds or time for all of that extra work, you may want to stick to a breed that has short hair.

You also don't need to get a puppy. Though puppies can be a lot of fun, they are a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with deciding that you want to try for an adult or mature dog. If you don't have the time to devote to a puppy, older dogs need homes just as much as puppies do!

Choosing the right breed of dog isn't as important as the kind of dog that you get. You need to decide what size dog you want, as well as what type of hair. Do you want to spend hours brushing your dog's hair, as well as taking him or her to the groomer on a regular basis.

It would help if you also thought about your lifestyle. Do you have the time for a puppy? Or would an older dog suit your sedentary lifestyle? Do you have a small apartment? Or do you have a fenced-in yard where an active dog could go crazy?

As long as you think carefully and pick wisely, any dog that you get will be lucky to have you (and you him or her)!

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