Choosing a dog.........

Choosing a dog - a partnership for life...

Choosing a Dog

CHOOSING A DOG

Thinking about having a dog in your family?  Great - dogs are man's (and women's) favourite and most loyal companions.  Not only will a dog provide companionship for children and older people alike, it will enhance your confidence and your sense of security.  And there is a big bonus - you will also live longer due to lower levels of stress and because you will be taking regular exercise.

However; it is a major decision. You need to understand that owning a dog will change your lifestyle - for the better we hope - so you must ensure that you are fully prepared before you begin the process. Truth is, owning a dog will cost you, mostly in time, but also in the financial sense.

Having made the decision that the time is right to get your dog, you will need to select which type of dog is most suitable for you and your life-style.

That lifestyle factor is the first thing. Just what adjustments would need to be made for you to own a dog? Unless you are living alone - when you certainly should have a dog - it's important to consider the needs of your family, particularly if you have children or other pets in your home. You should think about the ideal size of a dog as well as its energy levels and age. It is then that you will need to make a decision about where to obtain your new dog from. Remember that when you obtain a dog, you are entering a world of responsible dog ownership.

Listed below are some hints and tips which will assist you in selecting the right dog for you and your family.

• Size

You may have already made your decision about obtaining a small lap dog that you can carry around. Or, you may have decided upon a large or giant dog breed. However, if you cannot decide on the size of a dog, then maybe a medium sized canine friend would be a good choice. After all, just like people, dogs come in all shapes and sizes....

It is important to remember that small dogs tend to be delicate and vulnerable. Small dogs can be caused serious injury if they are stepped on or mishandled. They can also be much more sensitive to cold climates, so you need to be prepared to keep them warm. Many small dogs can develop what is called “tough dog” attitude; therefore, it is important that they are given obedience training.

Large dogs require a little more space to move around in. Those large and happy dogs that have long, whip-like tails require a sufficient amount of “wagging space” in order to avoid injury to your legs, or to avoid damaging household objects. Larger dogs are also more expensive when it comes to items such as dog food, dog supplies, and medical treatment.

• Activity Level

You probably are already be aware that certain dogs have higher energy levels than others. The activity level of dogs is very often determined by their breed. However, that does not mean that you can solely rely on the breed to establish how energetic your dog will be. Regardless of a dogs breed, they all require exercise. If this presents a problem for you, perhaps because you are no longer as agile as you once were, then a breed such as a Basset Hound might best suit you. If you are searching for a jogging partner, agility competitor, or a disc dog, then you may wish to consider a breed such as a Border Collie.

• Physical Maintenance

All dogs require basic grooming. However, there are particular breeds that require more attention due to their coats. A majority of short haired, smooth-coated dogs are major shedders, so prepare yourself for some extra cleaning. Be aware that dogs with long, floppy ears are always more prone to ear infections and require regular ear cleaning. Then there are those breeds that drool. A cloth is carried by many owners of Mastiffs, Bloodhounds and similar breeds so that they can wipe their mouths. You will need to take cover when these breeds shake their heads!

• Points to consider about age...

- Puppies

Puppies obviously need the most training and attention, particularly during the first six months. When obtaining a puppy you must be prepared to housebreak and raise your new puppy. It is likely that your puppy will have plenty of accidents in the home and most probably chew your furniture and personal items. These problems will gradually resolve when giving the correct training. However, it does require patience but the rewards in having a well trained dog are priceless.

- Adult Dogs

Adult dogs can be a perfect choice. You immediately get a full picture of a dog’s true energy level, attitude, and temperament. Unlike a puppy, you know the adult dog isn't going to grow any bigger! However; it is important to remember that just because a dog is of an adult age, does not necessarily mean that he is trained. Therefore, you may still need to deliver some training. Fortunately, many adult dogs have already received training and socialization so they are able to easily adjust to their new lives in their new homes.

- Senior Dogs

Under no circumstances should we ever forget senior dogs. Welcoming a senior dog into your home is one of the most wonderful things that you can do. Senior dogs are very often placed in shelters or even euthanized; therefore bringing a senior dog into your home will allow him to enjoy his golden years with the love and attention that he deserves. Senior dogs can make the most wonderful companions if you are searching for a low energy dog. However, it is important to remember that they require special attention, more frequent visits to the vets, and they may develop health problems that cost time and money. Of course you will not have as many years with a senior dog as you would with a puppy or an adult dog, but the time that you do have together will be well worth it.

• Rescue Dogs

A great amount of joy can be received when obtaining a rescue dog. Rescue dogs require a great deal of love and affection as they may have been abused, abandoned, or neglected. Due to this factor rescue dogs can initially be more wary and distrustful of humans. However, it is important for humans to be aware that when making the decision to obtain a rescue dog, they can have a new family member that is extremely grateful, loving, and after a little work, trusting.

There are many very positive factors with regard to adoption and rescue dogs and our sister web-site Pet Adoption Lifeline.com is recommended reading - and has some great pictures and stories!

• Hypoallergenic Dogs

Hypoallergenic dogs are a fantastic option for those people who suffer from allergies. Even though no dog is 100% non-allergenic, there are some breeds that are “low-allergy”. It is important to note that some people are in actual fact allergic to dog saliva, in which case there are no dog breeds with “hypoallergenic saliva”. However for those people who are allergic to a dog’s dander there are various breeds to suit allergy sufferers, such as:

- Basenji
- Bedlington Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Chinese Crested
- Cotton de Tulear
- Havanese
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Maltese
- Poodle
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Puli
- Schnauzer
- Shih Tzu
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Xoloitzcuintli
- Yorkshire Terrier

 

Where to get your dog?

This is a subject we will be dealing with separately but our recommendation is never to buy from a Pet Store.  These stores often obtain their stock from 'Puppy Farms' with little attention paid to animal welfare or the quality of breeding. If cost isn't too much of an issue then visit one or two specialist breeders (ask you local Vet for advice - he or she will certainly know what's what.) Where money is tight - and that's nothing to be ashamed of - or where animal welfare is your top priority, then vist a local Rescue Home.  Not only will you save money but you will also be saving two lives, the dog you choose will allow the Rescue Home space to take in a second dog.

When you have made your decision about which dog breed to select, it is imperative to ensure that the dog is healthy. His eyes should be bright, his coat should be shiny, and he should have a good appetite. Ensure that your home is prepared for a new dog before collecting him, and we always advise you to visit your local vet so that he can perform a check-up.

The only thing that remains to be said is congratulations on choosing a dog and that we hope you enjoy a long and happy life together.

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