Choosing the Right Dog for You

It’s becoming more apparent that animal shelters are continually struggling to find homes for many unwanted canines in this country. All too often, people bring a dog home with little idea of the animal’s needs only to abandon the dog when it fails to meet their expectations. When selecting the right dog for you, take into consideration several factors about your lifestyle and about the breed of dog you desire. Consider your own lifestyle. Are you active, or are you more of a couch potato? Where do dwell - do you rent an apartment in the city or own a large suburban home? Are there children in your life? Do you battle allergies on a regular basis? Do you need to set up extra wide dog gates throughout your place? Do you find it tough to remember to shower in the morning, let alone groom a dog? If you are the kind of person that likes to be active and outdoors, a larger breed may be a good fit. Like spending time indoors?

It may be in your best interest to choose a dog that is happy and content to hang out on the couch with you. Some energetic breeds may become destructive when left indoors all day. Make sure your schedule can accommodate your animal’s limitations. One of the saddest situations occurs when dog owners relinquish their pet to the pound due to the changing nature of their family. So take care of your dog and surprise him with goodies like dog Christmas stockings. If your dog will interact with your own children or others frequently, select a breed known for a gentle and patient temperament. If you suspect allergies will be an issue, investigate dog varieties with lesser shedding of hair and dander. Try to spend time around other’s pets before committing to your own as you may be able to determine the intensity of your reaction.

Keep in mind that while you may like the look of certain dog coats of others, the way they must be groomed may require more attention. Neglected grooming can create a severely uncomfortable situation for man’s best friend. Be sure to not leave clothing on dogs for hours on end, even if they are wearing a cute Christmas dog sweater, because they are not good for their fur. Save yourself and your dog from future heartbreak by taking the time to better understand the time, energy, and care that a canine pet requires. The right dog will be a joyful addition to your life, and it is not a decision to take lightly.