How to choose the right breed of dog for your home?

If you are thinking about bringing a dog into your home you should be aware that this is a life changing decision. As with all major changes in lifestyle you should first do your research and weigh up the pros and cons to ensure you come to the correct decision for you and your family, and of course, the dog you eventually choose.

For the sake of this article I am assuming that the decision to bring a dog into your home has been made, and you are now trying to decide which breed you should go for.

To help focus your mind it is advisable to write down a list of questions and answers which apply to your current and (expected) future lifestyle/situation. You should also write down a list of dog breeds you like so you can find out more about them as you perform your research.  Be prepared to add additional breeds to your list as you are certain to come across breeds you have never before heard of. Doing so will help you make an informed decision.

Why do you want a dog?

Most people want a dog for companionship. For people living alone a dog can often be perceived as the perfect partner; it offers unconditional love and affection and all you have to do is feed, water, walk and love it in return - and that is very easy for a dog lover to do.

If you are the parents of a single child, a dog can be a great companion for the child and a dog can instill confidence in children with special needs or learning difficulties.

How much space is there in your home?

Think about the space you have available to you. If your home is fairly small, doesn't have a garden or yard where a dog can be exercised and you are not keen on going for long walks, you should be looking at smaller dog breeds which do not require much exercise - Chihuahua, English Toy Spaniel, Pekingese or Bichon Frise could be ideal.

Just because you have a large house and huge garden don't feel as though you need to have a large dog to fill it. You don't want a huge dog such as a Bullmastiff slobbering all over that precious sofa or expensive carpet do you?

Do you want your dog to be a friend to your children?

If you have children in your home it is important to take a dog's temperament into consideration. Some breeds, such as Labrador and Golden Retriever have an outstanding reputation as family pets. They can be poked, prodded, dressed up, chased and used as a plaything without ever becoming aggressive.

However, that being said, you cannot assume that these breeds (or any other) will adhere to stereotypes without proper training and exercise.

How much excercise can you give your dog?

And not just now, but in ten years time. This is quite a major factor to consider. If you opt for a breed of dog which has lots of energy and requires copious amounts of daily exercise, such as Doberman Pinscher, Border Collie or Newfoundland and you don't deliver, you could be opening yourself up to a troublesome relationship.

In ten years the dog you choose will still require excercise, it won't be as much as when it was younger, but again, you should be asking yourself if you will still be able to deliver? Will your  age or mobility be a factor you?

How much can you afford to spend of dog food etc?

Big dogs require lots of food, lots of food requires lots of money. Take into account your budget and work this into your list of questions and answers. If it is a long time since you last owned a dog, or you have never owned a dog, do some research into the cost of dog food and the amount required to feed to the breeds you are interested in. You might be surprised at how expensive feeding a dog can be.

How sick can a dog get?

Some dog breeds could cost you a lot of money in vets bills if you choose one that is susceptible to an array of illnesses. Doing your research before you buy could save you a lot of money and emotional stress. The last thing any dog owner likes to see is a poorly pet.

Don't forget your holidays!

If you like to leave the country for a couple of weeks each year, you have to consider how the dog will be taken care of during that time. Kennels is a good option, but it is an added expense. Family members or friends are also a good option, but it is best not to take anything for granted.

How easy is it to train a dog?

Dogs that have been bred to assist humans are the easiest type of dogs to train - working dogs, herding dogs, hounds and terriers. These breeds have always worked alongside humans and follow commands very well.

Training a dog should start at a fairly young age and you should follow tried and tested methods. Dog training should only be done when a dog is in the right frame of mind; if you cannot get the attention of the dog it is best to have a break for a few minutes then come back to the task. 

Dogs that have been bred to fight or protect are often much more difficult to train and control.

If you are looking for a dog to become a family member or to provide company to your children, a Rottweiler is probably not the best choice for you. If you are a man living alone in a rough part of town, then maybe a Rottweiler is the best dog breed for you.

Choosing the best breed for you is about understanding your circumstances, expectations and lifestyle. Select wisely and you will experience a fantastic relationship, but make the wrong decision and it could be one of the worst times of your life.

There are loads of websites around which can help you choose the best dog breed for you, but please do your research before you make your decision