Finding the right dog for you can be a challenging task. Often people fall in love with the first big, fluffy puppy they see, and bring them home only to realize the dog doesn’t suit their lifestyle at all. This can make life more difficult for both dog and owner.
A little research before you adopt can go a long way. Below is a list of questions to ask yourself when in search for the perfect dog. Breeders and rescues can also help you find the right fit for your family.
1. Puppy or adult?
This is the first and most important question you should ask yourself. Puppies require a lot of attention and supervision for the first 8-or-so months of their lives, just like a young child does.
Raising a puppy is a challenging task and is not for everyone. There are so many older dogs out there looking for new homes, and for many these can make a much better companion than a young puppy.
2. How much time do I have to exercise each day?
Some dogs do just fine with a 45 minute walk a day, while others require hours of walking,
running and mental stimulation.
3. How much room do I have?
Big dogs take up a lot of room, and while some large-breeds do okay in an apartment, it is
important to think about how much space you have at home for your dog.
4. How much is the dog going to cost in up-keep?
Smaller dogs require less food, therefore are cheaper to feed than a large-breed dog. Collars, toys, beds, apparel etc also costs more for bigger dogs. Dogs that require professional grooming may also cost more in the long run.
5. What type of coat does the dog have?
One thing that many poeple don’t consider is the dog’s coat type. Short-haired dogs generally shed less, so are easier on the house cleaning. Long haired breeds may also require routine clipping and bathing.
6. Is the dog good with small children and other pets?
If there are any children or other animals in the home, or may be in the future, it is a good idea to make sure the dog is okay with these. Some dogs are not, due to past experiences, and some breeds are also known to not be so good around small children or other pets.
7. Do I want a guard dog, jogging companion or lap dog?
It is important to think about why you want to adopt a dog. If you just want a house companion, go for a low maintenance breed. If you do a lot of exercise and want someone to enjoy this with, go for a more energetic breed. If you want a dog that will protect your family, find a safe guard or watch dog.
8. ADOPT A LESS-ADOPTABLE DOG
Some dogs have had hard lives, and may be physically disfigured, or perhaps are close to the end of their lives and need someone to love them until the end of their days. These dogs are usually not the first ones to be picked up, but make just as good pets! Yes, some may require treatments and medications, but every dog deserves a good home, no matter their age, appearance or condition.
