Choosing the right dog breed for you comes after making sure that your home and way of life are suitable for a dog. It’s crucial to choose the appropriate breed that suits your lifestyle and living environment. And for this; research is essential to find the best match for you, your family, and your way of life. As there are so many breeds to pick from, it’s not always easy. So, here we’ve listed a few factors to consider which may help you while choosing a perfect dog breed match.
Energy Level of You and Your Dog
Most likely, people choose a dog to adopt based more on appearance than on character or behavior. It’s important to initially evaluate your own level of energy to match your potential fido’s energy level. You should get a high-energy dog if you are the type of person who enjoys getting up early to go jogging. On the other hand, if your idea of an active weekend is surfing through those mobile screens or TV channels, then a low-key dog is probably for you. Conflicts in energy might result in behavioral problems.
You might be unsure of which breeds to look for if you determine that a dog with less energy and more affection would be a wonderful match. Since mixed breeds are often less high-maintenance and more even-tempered, they can be a good match for you. Select one of the (mixed) breeds listed below if you’re looking for a softer, less energetic canine companion.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Italian Greyhound
- Basset Hound
- Bloodhound
- Maltese
- Pug
As with any adoption, spend some time getting to know the dog before concluding that, just because they are a certain breed, they are quiet. Exceptions are always possible.
Now that we’ve discussed some of the more laid-back canines, what about those high-energy dog breeds? Energized dogs are popular with outdoor enthusiasts, explorers, exercise aficionados, and those who lead active lifestyles. Here are a few popular breeds for people who like to have fun being active.
- Airedale Terrier
- Basenji
- Beagle
- Border Collie
- Cattle Dog
- German Shepherd
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Labrador Retriever
Spending time with your new would-be adoptee can help you better understand their personality, temperament, and lifestyle requirements.
Physical Maintenance
The level of maintenance necessary for your dog’s appearance is significantly correlated. All dogs need some basic grooming; however, some breeds may need more than others based on their coat type. If you get a dog whose hair is constantly growing, advanced routine grooming is necessary. The majority of short-haired, smooth-coated dogs shed a lot, so plan on doing the additional cleanup. The use of certain grooming products helps lessen shedding.
It’s important to remember that dogs with long, floppy ears are more likely to get ear infections and may need thorough ear cleanings every few weeks. Numerous small-breed dogs are also prone to dental issues, which may require expensive dental procedures in addition to diligent daily brushing at home.
Selecting the Right Breed
Start your dog breed research after determining your own level of energy. Knowing the breed that would be most suitable for your personality is crucial because every breed has a particular set of personality features. Each breed has a distinct spectrum of energy levels; certain breeds are renowned for their extreme friendliness with young children, while others are renowned for their athletic propensities.
A hypoallergenic dog breed, such as the poodle, may be suitable for you if you have an allergy to animal fur, provided that their other characteristics are compatible with your needs. Dogs of mixed breeds can combine the ideal features you seek, but there is never a guarantee you will obtain all the desirable traits. For example, purebred bulldogs and pugs have relatively small nasal canals, which can affect their capacity to breathe effectively when they are hot. But bear in mind that each dog has a unique personality. Never presume that all canines of a given breed will exhibit the same behavior.
Living Space for Your New Furry Family Member
One of the most important things you should take into account while choosing a dog breed is the size of your living space. How big a flat or home do you have? Can you make room in your home for a large dog? Or can just a tiny dog fit in your living space? Do you have a backyard where the dog can go outside to exercise and relieve themselves? Large breeds like Great Danes could be more susceptible to illnesses like hip issues or ruptured ACLs. Smaller dogs, such as Chihuahuas, could be more susceptible to injuries or exposure to extreme cold than larger dogs.
Match Your Schedule
If you pick a dog breed that fits into your schedule, your pet will receive the care they need. Do you have the leisure time needed to effectively train a puppy? Will you be able to give an energetic dog the long walks and exercise they require? Or do you require a senior dog who is more independent and can manage being left alone during the day? You must consider all these concerns before selecting a breed for dog adoption.
Bottom Line:
So, once you’ve decided on the breed of dog you want after taking into account your own energy level and other factors, try to spend some time alone with that dog. Simply try to communicate with the dog or go for a stroll with it to see how you two get along. Always choose a dog that is less energetic than yours, or at least equal to it.