The Safetpet Blog

Most people would agree with the idea that a dog is man’s best friend, but – like making friends with people – different personality and styles work better together. That’s why you need to make sure that you get the right breed for you and your family. But how do you know which breed is right for you? There are some signs you can look for and some questions you can ponder.

First, you’ll want to do your research. Don’t pick a breed because it’s ‘cute.’ You need to ensure that the breed is one whose temperament and personality fit your home – and that’s especially true if you have small children or other pets. Some dogs need more exercise and human interaction than others, so if you’re gone from your home a lot (at work, etc) that might not be a good dog choice for you. If you run each morning, finding a dog that can keep up would be a good idea.

You also have to look at the living arrangements that you have, because big dogs and small apartments do not usually mix well. Also, will your dog have to live outside?

Dog collars are important, since they usually carry the tags that your dog will need to help it get home if it gets out. The only concern with collars is to get the right one for the right dog to be sure that the animal is safe. The living environment as well as other people and other pets are the biggest concerns when choosing the right dog breed.

When you’re looking for a dog breed, look carefully at the size. If you get a ‘mutt’ it can be hard to tell what size it will end up, but if you buy a dog that is purebred it’s pretty easy to know what size range that dog will fall into. Also, if you get a dog that is mixed between two breeds a size range is relatively easy based on the size of the two breeds. You might not think that the size of the dog matters that much, but it really does. Large dogs in small spaces don’t do well, tiny dogs in big spaces can get stepped on and injured, and they can also be injured by young children and rowdy teenagers.

Some large dogs also have hip problems depending on the breed, and they eat much more than smaller dogs. If they need medical care it can be more costly, and they shed more, as well. That’s not to say that big dogs are a poor choice, but only that it’s very important to be aware of their needs, just like it is with smaller dogs.

They all require different things and have different personalities, so getting one that meshes with you and your family is the key to enjoying your dog for years to come. Too many dogs are given to shelters or abandoned, and it’s often because the person who got the dog failed to take the time to learn about the breed.

Another consideration that you’ll have with your dog breed is whether you can afford it. Some breeds are much more expensive than others because they are rarer or more highly prized. It’s something to consider, because there are many breeds out there and you want to get one that you’re happy with. If you spend too much you could end up resenting the animal, which would be terribly unfair to it. The cost of food and supplies should be factored in, as well.

Most people also like to train their dog because they want it to be obedient. You can do this yourself or take your dog to an obedience class – again, cost is usually a factor. No matter what you decide, though, do your research and commit to your dog before you get it in order to have the best relationship possible.