No amount of training will solve the problem of a dog that is just not right for your lifestyle. You can get all the help with dog training possible and it will not solve your problem. In a previous article I Have touched on the different kinds of breeds there is and I have taken a very brief look at some of their general characteristics. If you are in any doubt I really recommend a good dog training e-book such as SitStayFetch where you will get all the information you need.
The next step towards deciding which bread is right for you is to have a look at your lifestyle. Dogs need company, exercise and food, but not all breeds need it in the same way and you have to keep that in mind when choosing a dog.
The basics of your lifestyle that you need to consider are:
1. Your daily schedule and commitments:
How much time will you be able to spend with your dog? A puppy needs a lot of attention and if you do not have the time, it is just not going to work. If you are out of the house most of the time, now might not be the right time to get a puppy.
2. What you do for fun and leisure:
It is most important to take into account if a dog can be included in what you do for fun. If you hate exercise, it is best to stay away from the breeds that are very active. On the other hand if you are the active kind that wants to go on long walks with your dog, you cannot get a tiny dog that will not be up to it. You also have to take into consideration whether the places you love to go will be suitable for a dog.
3. Your living quarters
The size of your living quarters is very important. You cannot keep a large dog in a tiny apartment. Even a small dog can only be kept in a small apartment if you can take him for exercise on a regular basis. The dog’s proneness to barking can also be a problem in a small space. This is a very important thing to keep in mind.
4. How often and how do you travel?
How often do you travel? Keep in mind that all breeds do not handle kenneling good. On the other hand, if your dog is welcome in the places you go to, it is much less of a problem. No dog handles being left alone often very good and it is almost certain that if you have to be away too often that your dog will develop behavior problems.
5. Your financial situation:
If money is tight, avoid high-maintenance dogs such as those with pushed-in noses or skin flaps as they are naturally prone to health problems.
6. Your lifestyle situation:
- Single people - you’ll need to take time to socialize your dog.
- Couples - Do you both work? Will someone always be able to be home in time to feed puppy?
- Families with children younger that five - Can you still handle a puppy?
- Families with children older than five - The kids can help, get a dog that loves lots of activity.
- Retired people - This is an ideal time for a puppy. Just keep in mind that a puppy can be as demanding as a baby. Also keep your retirement plans in mind when choosing a breed.
- Households with other pets - Another dog can help with the training, but if the dog you already have is a little nutty, you may want puppy to get a little training before bringing him home.
7. When to consider an older dog - If you decide on an older dog just make sure you get a dog that has matured a bit and does not act like an over sized puppy!
As you can see, choosing a dog needs a lot of thought and you cannot simply settle on the first cute puppy that steals your heart.
In a nutshell, this is what you need to think about:
- Think of the breed’s personality and what will suit you best
- Take an honest look at yourself and get a breed who can share in your interests
- Choose a breed that can fit in with the space you have as well as your lifestyle
- If you have children or other pets choose a happy-go-lucky breed to make things easier.
I have only touched on the most important things you need to keep in mind when choosing a dog. It is not nearly enough information to make the correct choice on. To prevent serious problems down the line, get yourself a good dog training e-book such as SitStayFetch and make sure you get the dog that is just right for you. All the help with dog training, that is available, will not be of any use if the dog breed you choose is just not right for your lifestyle and circumstances. Get help with dog training before it is too late. Get SitStayFetch.
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