Adopting a dog can be a decade-long commitment, so you should always know the limitations your household has that might preclude you from certain breeds. Many people make decisions based on how cute the dog looks or how friendly it seems, but you must also keep in mind the needs of your new pet and whether or not you can give them a life full of the things they need. Today, we will discuss how you can choose the best breed of dog based on your circumstances.
Things To Consider Before Deciding on a Breed
First and foremost, as long as you do your best to provide a safe and loving home for your pup, that is good enough. Many people adopt dogs that are at risk of euthanasia at kill shelters or find them abandoned, and your home will always be a better place for them. However, if you have the luxury of time to decide on what dog to adopt, you should still try to find one that will mesh with your lifestyle, home, and family.
Safety Concerns
Families, especially with young children, need to make sure that the needs of their human family members are put above their dogs. If you have a baby, young child, or elderly family member at home, large breeds of dogs prone to excitement and playful activity might not be the best choice. Even if they are not aggressive, they can potentially harm your loved one. Few dogs in the world have never bitten, clawed, or scratched anyone in their lives. Bigger dogs can do substantially more damage than smaller dogs, even if it is a one-time event.
Costs
Not all dogs cost the same to care for. In fact, larger dogs that require a lot of food at every meal might end up costing you hundreds of dollars a year in food costs alone. Within size brackets, there are still factors that can make one breed cost more than another. For example, Cocker Spaniels are known to have more health issues and internal organ problems than dogs of the same size due to historical breeding genes. If money is a concern, you should consult a vet or dog expert to find out which breeds tend to have these issues.
Affection Levels and Personality
Most people who adopt dogs want a lifelong partner. However, many breeds have a disposition to be standoffish or solitary. Other breeds may tend to bond with only one person – great for a single owner but bad for a large family. In general, many breeds historically used for hunting or protection may be wary of strangers, and dog owners should keep this in mind when taking them on public walks or introducing them to new members of the family.
House Size and Style
While bringing your dog out and about to explore nature and get exercise is essential, some dogs demand it more than others. If you live in a small apartment, having a dog full of energy and always demanding to play can be a burden. Furthermore, some dogs thrive when given access to a backyard or lawn, which isn’t a concern for other breeds.
No matter the dog breed you choose, proper socializing and training go a long way toward turning them into a well-behaved and family-oriented dog. If you are looking for a professional dog training and obedience school in Bradenton, Florida, contact Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training today.
