Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle can make a big difference in the happiness and well-being of your new pet. Consider the daily schedule of everyone in your household, especially children, and choose a breed that typically fits your activity level.
Research breed characteristics and consult with experts – such as breeders or rescues – before committing to ownership.
Size
A puppy’s age and size will significantly affect how well it fits into your lifestyle. Younger pets need more attention and care, while older animals are usually calmer. Also, smaller pets are ideal for homes with limited space, while larger breeds need more room.
For example, a chihuahua is perfect for a small apartment because it only takes up a few square feet of floor space and requires little exercise. Another small dog breed, the Japanese chin, can fit into tight spaces because they are usually under 11 pounds and stand about a foot tall, reports Insider.
On the other hand, giant breeds like German shepherds and Great Danes can be a poor fit for an urban apartment, as they love to run and explore. Giant dogs need ample outdoor space to burn off energy. If you work long hours or travel frequently, better choices may exist than a more active breed like terriers.
Activity level
As an active person who loves hiking and camping, you might prefer a high-energy dog that can keep up. Conversely, a low-energy puppy would be a good match if you like to spend time at home with your feet up and are happy to go for a leisurely walk in the neighborhood.
Another important consideration is your work schedule. A dog that requires hours of daily exercise wouldn’t be a good choice for someone with long or irregular work shifts. Bored dogs can quickly develop behavioral issues, so you must ensure your new pet gets plenty of daily playtime and exercise.
If your lifestyle doesn’t match the needs of certain breeds, consider adopting a shelter or rescue animal instead of buying one from a Pawrade breeder. Many pets in these organizations have been rescued from abuse or neglect and need loving homes. Adopting a shelter dog may require extra training and patience, but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences for you and your furry family member.
Grooming requirements
Grooming is a significant consideration when choosing a puppy. Some breeds require more grooming than others, which can take up considerable time. If you have limited time, then consider a breed with shorter fur. Dogs with longer hair must be brushed weekly or fortnightly to avoid matting and prevent tangles.
Many people are drawn to the cuteness of a breed like a Shih Tzu, with its short smooshed-looking faces and small bodies. These tiny dogs have a low energy level and are bred to be companions. They enjoy attention from their owners and playing with toys. But they also need routine exercise, as well as regular grooming.
When considering a pet, you should also carefully research the breeds that interest you to determine their temperament, specialized grooming needs, and health issues. An inexperienced pet owner can accidentally nick or cut their pup or rupture one of its anal glands (this is very painful and should be left to the professionals). If you have a limited budget, you should consider the cost of food, veterinary care, and grooming services before deciding on a breed.
Health issues
The health of your pet is a crucial factor to consider. While dogs can develop hereditary conditions, certain breeds are more prone to them. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for hereditary diseases and provide puppies with regular vet visits.
If you want a healthy puppy with a lower genetic disease risk, look for a cross-bred pup. Since mixed-breeds have a more vast gene pool, they are less likely to have breed-specific diseases than purebreds.
Puppies require more care than older pets and will need shots, potty training, and puppy school. If you don’t have the time or energy for this, consider adopting an adult or senior dog.
Dogs can make a big difference in our lives and help us live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. However, it’s crucial to choose a dog that will match your lifestyle and be able to give the love and attention they deserve. With the proper preparation, you can welcome a furry companion into your family and enjoy years of happy memories together.
Personality
Much work is involved with a puppy, including toilet training and establishing feeding routines. If you travel a lot or have other family members who are not home much, choose a less active breed that is more content to hang out at home.
Personality is also a factor in choosing the right dog. Do you want an energetic court jester or a cuddle bug? It can be more challenging to determine with puppies than with adults.
If you have young children, you must consider whether a dog will get along with them. Larger, more rambunctious dogs are not likely to get along with kids, especially younger ones. Smaller breeds and some mixed breeds are more docile, but you must carefully assess the interaction between your children and the dog before making that choice. Dogs that have experienced trauma or neglect may initially be wary of human contact and may require more time to develop a trusting relationship. It will need to be done with the help of a trainer or behaviorist.
