To ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier, make sure that you check out The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.
You might love the way an Australian Shepherd looks, with his blue eyes and soft merle coat, but would that dog fit in well with your lifestyle? Maybe you have always wanted a pug, but you’re an avid runner and want your dog to cross the miles with you. Maybe a pug isn’t the best choice for you! Let’s take a quick look at how to choose the best dog breed for your personality and lifestyle. Remember – dog ownership is a lifetime bargain!
Good Apartment Dogs
If you live in an apartment, and need a quiet pet who will be content to lie at your feet while you watch TV, then you should either adopt an older shelter animal, or choose a breed that loves nothing more than to lounge. Pugs and pug mixes are great for this – plus, their plush, velvety fur makes them extra huggable. Better yet, pugs are loveable and they get along with everyone. On the downside, some dogs with shorter snouts have breathing problems.
Ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier with The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.
Small hound breeds, such as beagles and fox hounds, and some terriers, are not well-suited to life in an apartment, unless they are able to run and be themselves for long periods of time each day – although, if you adopt an older dog, you’ll find that he or she is more than content to nap in the comfort of your apartment all day and then take a walk with you after work.
Good Working Dogs
Do you need a dog to do a certain job? If you’re an avid hunter, then look for a good retriever or setter. Gordon setters, German pointers, Springer Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers (yellow, chocolate, or black – color doesn’t matter) make great hunting dogs.
If you’re into rally or want your kids to be involved with canine agility, then pick a smart dog with a high play drive. Poodles (standard or miniature), spaniels, and mixed breeds are amazing agility dogs, and so are various dogs from the herding class.
Some people want a dog who can help them feel safe. If you want to deal with big EVERYTHING – from lots of drool, to plenty of hair to vacuum up, to big doggie bombs to pick up, then think about getting a Mastiff, a Rottweiler, a Doberman Pinscher, Irish Wolfhound, or other large breed. The downside? These dogs live shorter lives and are susceptible to joint disease and hip dysplasia. If you’re going to buy a big dog, be sure his parents have certified hips, elbows, hearts, and eyes.
If you want a dog who will act as a great alarm system, and just tell you someone is coming, pick a terrier, poodle, Chihuahua, or other yapper. Most family dogs do a good job of alerting their people to the presence of a stranger though, so don’t feel as though you’re stuck with only a few options here.
Ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier with The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.
By choosing a dog with an activity level to match your own, a size that you can manage, and a personality that you will enjoy, you’re certain to experience all the great things that dog ownership can bring. Be sure you’re prepared before you bring a puppy or dog home – line up a dog trainer, educate yourself about canine nutrition, and be sure to make veterinary care a priority.
