How To Choose A Dog - There Is A Lot To Consider, But A Lot Of Help Too

Choosing a dog is a fun adventure. The search for a new familial addition is exciting, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Don't despair; instead, keep in mind the following hints while searching and you'll know what choice is right for you and your lifestyle.

First, it's a little depressing to think about a Great Dane in an apartment your friends have dubbed "the water-closet". Even if you are able to hire a dog walker, it's going to be too cramped for you both. Save yourself and the dog from an uncomfortable situation. If you have the space, then it's not an issue. Compromise, because no matter how cute they are as puppies, they will fill those paws!

Space, exercise and quality time go hand in hand when it comes to caring for your new pet. Little dogs need exercise, however, bigger dogs need just as much or more. For bigger dogs, space is more of an issue than for a small dog. Little dogs have plenty of fuel to burn and can do it all indoors. Bigger dogs, however, cannot get as much exercise indoors. They need enough room to work up to a good run to really work their muscles. Even if you are city bound, be sure your dog is able to get plenty of exercise daily. That means outdoors walking, playing and running.

Think about how much quality time you can dedicate to your dog. Dogs need a lot of personal attention. They are pack animals. If you have another dog at home (and once the new addition is settled in), then leaving them alone together (with toys!) may help comfort both pets when you are gone at work. On the other hand, if the dog is obviously tired (and perhaps there are rambunctious children around), allow the dog to rest in its own personal space.

Another issue that arises is whether you want a dog that doesn't shed a lot. If your dog will live outside on the farm, then shedding may not be a concern. Different types of dogs shed at different times of the year, some all year long.

Next, think about whether you want a male or female dog. This is a matter of personal preference. There are different traits between males and females. Males tend to be bit more rowdy, explorative, protective and stronger. Females are less likely to wander off, are usually smaller and play a little gentler.

Finally, you'll want to decide if you want a pure breed or a mixed dog. A mixed, or crossbreed, will cost you less. It may even be free. The Humane Society is a great place to start. Many people find both young and old dogs that would love to be your or you or your child's loyal life companion.

Pure breeds have their benefits. Mostly, their bloodlines are well documented and you will know a lot about their instincts, temperament and size. It's important to know what you want out of your dog, a hunter, a protector, a worker or a friend. It's crucial to think about all of this if you have children.

Pure breeds may develop more problems than crossbreeds. For example, they may show signs of bad hips, elbows, or sight at an earlier age.

Crossbreeds, however, are more of a surprise. If you know the parents of the mixed pup, you can judge accurately what they will become. A crossbreed is less likely to develop problems often passed down in purer breeds.

All of this is important, but not as important as planning ahead. A little forethought will allow you to properly choose and care for your newfound friend.

For more information and an excellent, free, automated resourced to help you choose a dog, please visit our site here.

Abo ut the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at Dog Gifts and Toys for Dog Lovers.

Copyright 2004. All rights reserved.

---

How Old is Your Pet- Really?

Just how old is your dog really? More than likely... Read More

Hamsters; The Perfect Starter Pet

As a parent, you want to be able to give... Read More

Stop Cat Scratching Today!

Your new living room furniture is in tatters. Your nerves... Read More

Is your Dog Malnourished?

Americans are more concerned about health than ever before, so... Read More

Dog Food - Which Diet is Best for Dogs?

Why The Food You Give Your Dog Matters!If you're like... Read More

Rescue Dogs

We have all grown up with at least one hero... Read More

How to Groom Your Horse

Grooming means taking care of the physical maintenance of the... Read More

But My Pet Will Never Run Away (or Why We Need Licenses)

The city I live in just increased its fees for... Read More

How Are You Treating Your Pet?

Can you comprehend a time when dog food, cat food,... Read More

So You Want To Own A Ferret?

You've seen them in movies and on TV shows, and... Read More

7 Good Reasons for Playing With Your Cat

Playing reinforces the bond between you and your cat.Playing with... Read More

Weaning Puppies Is Only Natural

Weaning puppies is a perfectly natural process. Mamma dogs have... Read More

Whos Pulling On The Leash, You Or Your Dog?

Hopefully no one is pulling the leash. The ideal situation... Read More

Interior Decorating for Cat Owners - Protecting Your Pet

Part 2: Protecting your petIf you own a cat, then... Read More

Training Your Dog To Save a Life In Water

Occasionally watching Animal Planet does have its advantage. You can... Read More

The Artful Dog Shopper

I am a dog lover by nature. I have just... Read More

A Guide to Antique Bird Cages

It has been said that everything old is new again.... Read More

Training Your Dog to Sit

Training your dog to "sit" is probably the first thing... Read More

Got Fleas? How to Spot and Care For Fleas on Your Dog

Your poor pooch is scratching himself all over. Plus, you... Read More

Is A Boxer Dog The Right Pet For You?

Having a boxer dog as a pet, although low-maintenance, require... Read More

Dog Training Basics

All positive commands should be spoken sharply and distinctly during... Read More

A Moving Experience: Making Your Move Easy on Your Parrots

Moving is about as stressful a time as any in... Read More

Horse Training Equipment: The 6th of 6 Keys To Developing A Partnership With Your Horse

The 6 Keys To Building A Life Long Partnership With... Read More

Pet Vitamin Supplements - Whether You Need One and How to Choose One

Vitamins Can Increase Your Dog's Life Span!There is evidence to... Read More

How to Keep Your Cat Free from Diseases with Your Quick Guide to Cat Grooming

Even a cat that compulsively cleans itself can benefit from... Read More

Can Your Pet Stomach This?

Can Your Dog Stomach This?There's an old adage that says... Read More

How to Teach YOUR Cat to Use a Litter Box - Secrets to Litter Tray Success

Even the most dedicated cat lover has little patience with... Read More

Keeping Discus Fish Disease Free

So you want to keep discus fish or are already... Read More

?Sit Up? Buddy: Training Your Dog To Sit Like You

The trick of "sitting up" is easily taught to small... Read More

Are Exotic Cats a Threat to Public Safety? Why Exotic Pets Are Not Dangerous

I would like to address some of the statements I... Read More

Dog Pile - Please Pick It Up

I really do not hope your are eating something, but... Read More

Price of Unconditional Love

Why is it that cats get no respect? Are they... Read More

The Pros and Cons of Vaccinating Your Dog

To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? That's become the burning... Read More