Being ready for the right dog is very different than being ready for any dog. The fact is some breeds just will not suit you, because they cannot sta
Being ready for the right dog is very different than being ready for any dog. The fact is some breeds just will not suit you, because they cannot stay healthy under your lifestyle. Their health is paramount because a dog that is healthy and cared for is well behaved. If you cannot provide that, they tend to misbehave and act out of boredom.
Always research a breed before committing. Knowing what you are getting into ahead of time can help you be a better dog owner, and of course, makes it easy to choose the right breed to begin with.
With this guide, you’ll be able to find the right breed for you:
1. Start with Your Lifestyle
Your lifestyle is the most important component. If you enjoy going hunting as a sport, and want a hunting dog at your side, then you can choose any of the breeds in that category. Hounds, in particular, will suit your needs well.
That isn’t to say that you couldn’t adopt a Tree Walker coonhound if you don’t hunt. They are ideal for those who live in detached houses and for those who are very active, experienced dog owners. First-time dog owners would be better suited with a poodle, a retriever, or even a pug.
2. Temperament
The temperament of a dog is also very important. If you are quiet and calm, then chances are you don’t mesh well with a dog that is usually exciting and very energetic. Matching energy levels and even intelligence is important. Highly intelligent dogs need to be challenged, and it’s okay if you don’t have time to train them, test them, and provide them that mental stimulation – you just need to look for a different breed.
3. Health Conditions and Concerns
Know and be aware of the health conditions and concerns that the breed typically has. Those coonhounds, for example, are prone to ear infections. You would need to check their ears and clean them out whenever they are outside. Knowing these types of things will help you make the best decision for you, and actually will allow you to take better care of your dog after you bring them home.
4. Shedding
This can be a concern to some. While all dogs will shed, some dogs shed minimally the same amount throughout the year, whereas other dogs have shedding seasons that can become quite difficult to deal with.
5. If You Are Rescuing
While you can still have a list of breed preferences when looking to rescue a dog, chances are you will be looking at more mixes and maybe even breeds you have never heard of. Thankfully this is where shelters come into play. They typically work to partner you with dogs that suit your lifestyle and fit the personality profile that you are looking for. Their goal is to make the right connections so that successful adoptions can happen. Trust in them and meet your potential rescue a few times so you can be sure you can give the furry baby a forever home.
