Getting a new dog can be an exciting time for you and your loved ones. It can be the start of a fun new chapter in your family’s and your potential pet’s lives. But the number of options when it comes to dog breeds can give you paralysis by analysis.
Choosing a suitable dog breed for your family’s lifestyle is often one of the most important parts of dog ownership. So, you might be wondering, “What breed of dog should I get?” This article will cover some factors for you and your family to consider.
Pet owning experience
If you’ve ever owned or lived with a pet before, you realize everything that entails. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks of prospective pet ownership can help inform your decision on what type of dog breed you’d like, or whether you’d like a dog at all.
If you’ve never owned a dog before, some breeds may be better than others due to their trainability and pleasant nature. These include golden retrievers, Yorkshire terriers and Cavalier King Charles spaniels.
Living space
How large your living space is should steer you toward and away from certain types of dog breeds. For example, if you live in a small studio apartment in a large urban city, you’ll probably be looking for a different type of dog than if you live on a rural 100-acre farm.
Some smaller dog breeds that are well-suited to apartment living are pugs, Shih Tzus, French bulldogs, basset hounds and Clumber spaniels.
Family size
A key element of choosing a suitable dog breed is factoring the size or potential size of your family into the equation. The ages of everyone in your family are integral to making a good dog breed decision as well.
For example, a couple with no children might be able to handle taking care of three dogs, but a family with four children who are all school-age and need to be taken to extracurricular activities may not. Some popular family breeds that get along well with children are beagles, collies, Labrador retrievers and Irish setters.
Lifestyle
If you’ve ever pondered the question, “What breed of dog should I get?” it’s likely you’ve thought about the necessary care you’ll need to provide. One way to create a symbiotic relationship with your dog is to consider both the animal’s and your own energy levels.
Are you someone who likes to get outside a lot and exercise? Do you live in an area where you can easily do that? If you’re active and outdoorsy, an energetic dog can not only keep you both healthy, but can grow the emotional bond between you and your dog as well. Some of the best high-energy dogs include Siberian huskies, Dalmatians, border collies, Australian shepherds and American Staffordshire terriers.
Call to discuss your new dog today
Now that you know how to choose a suitable dog breed, consider taking one of the many online quizzes to help you find which dog breed would be best for you and your family. If you’re wondering whether a Presa Canario might be right for you, call D&G Kennels. We’re the premier Presa breeders in west Georgia, and we’d love to help you find your new pet.