How To Pick The Perfect Dog Breed For You

Dogs make the best pets. They’re loyal, loving and comforting. Whether you want to play, cuddle or sleep - you'll always have your dog to give you company. But once you start looking into getting a dog, you’ll see that the options are endless when it comes to choosing the right one. And while most people don’t realize this, it’s really important that you know which breed is the best for your family and lifestyle. Why? Well, because much like humans, dogs also have different kinds of personalities, needs, likes and dislikes. From considering the size of your home to shedding and even the kind of weather you live in, in this video, we’re telling you all you need to know about how to pick the perfect dog breed.

10) Do Your Research

Before you even start thinking about getting a dog, make sure that you make a checklist of all the things you need to consider before bringing a pet into your home. Don’t just get a dog because it looks cute. Make sure you do your research and keep your budget along with your comfort level in mind. After all, what’s the point of having a dog if all it does is to stress you out. If you really want a dog, make sure that you have your priorities listed down so you can go into the process knowing exactly what you don’t want in your dog. Trust me, it’ll make things ten times easier.

9) Size

One of the most important things to consider before buying a dog is the fact that pups come in all sizes and shapes. As great as it is, that also means you have some serious decisions to make. If you get a breed that’s too big for your house, it’s not going to be an easy change. Make sure that you select a breed type that’s not going to feel restricted in your house. For example, if you live in a small apartment, getting a Rottweiler might not be a great idea. However, size isn’t all that matters. Different breeds of dogs require different kinds of care. So make sure that you consider your dog’s needs as well. If you have a big enough house for a larger dog, do you also have a backyard for it to play around in? These are the sorts of questions you need to be asking yourself before finalizing a breed.

8) Schedule

Another important factor in making decisions when it comes to dog breeds is your schedule. Don’t get me wrong, dogs are pretty friendly animals. But if there’s one thing that they like: it’s routine. Some dogs absolutely have to spend time outdoors, other breeds want their owners’ attention all the time and constant training to keep their health and behaviour in check. So, consider your schedule and then take a look at the options you have in front of you. Let’s say you’re away from home 8 hours a day, in that case you might want to stick with a dog breed that’s independent enough to take care of itself for a while - like the Greyhound. However, if you’re ready to dedicate a huge chunk of your day to your adorable pet, a Husky or a Labrador might be the perfect fit for you. It all comes down to priorities.

7) Your Family

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are family dogs - especially when you have young children. As playful as dogs are, they’re not toys. And sometimes, small children don’t realize that if they don’t treat their dogs well, chances are that their pets might kick or bite them back. Some dog breeds just don’t do well with kids. So, if you’re thinking of getting a dog with kids in the house, make sure to look out for breeds with easy-going and agreeable temperaments. Some dogs prefer socializing with only adults and some get along with people of all ages. Shy dog breeds like the Shih Tzu and Maltese usually get scared in the presence of loud kids but breeds like the Golden Retriever thrive in a house full of kids. So, the choice really depends on your family.

6) Energy Levels

Similar to your schedule, you need to think about your dog’s energy levels before you get one. Some dog breeds are up and running all the time, which means that they will constantly bug you to take them out or play with them. And if you’re not the kind of person who likes to stay on their feet all day, a high-energy dog will easily tire you out. Similarly, a low-energy owner is most likely to frustrate certain breeds of dogs too - making them irritable, aggressive and difficult to control. The key here is to find a breed with the same kind of temperament and energy as your own so both of you can live together in peace.