Choosing the Right Dog for You
Animal shelters struggle to find homes for the many unwanted dogs and puppies 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. Think about your own lifestyle. Are you usually an active person, or more of a couch potato? Where do you live – a city apartment or a spacious rural property? Are their young children in your life? Are allergies a constant worry for you? Do you need to set up indoor dog gates throughout your place? Do you find it tough to remember to take care of your own personal needs, let alone a dog’s? If you are active and have access to sufficient outdoor space, a large breed may be the right fit for you. Like spending a lot of time indoors?
Pick a pooch that is happy to camp out on the couch next to you. Some energetic breeds may become destructive when left indoors all day. Make sure you understand whether your schedule will accommodate your dog’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 a dog Christmas stocking. 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.
While you may like the distinctive appearance of certain coats, their grooming demands require constant 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 holiday dog sweaters, 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.
