Which Breed Is Right For You?

Why does one breed appeal to a person over another? Why do some of us love the size, looks and temperament of a Great Dane and others would never own anything but a Toy Poodle?

Every breed has their pros and cons. As a prospective puppy buyer/dog owner, you must be aware of the traits, both good and bad, of the breed you are considering. Many pet owners own the breed they do because of an impulse buy. Sometimes this works out fine and other times dog owners find out, too late, that this is not such a wonderful breed (for them) after all. Sadly, it's the innocent dog that suffers when it gets placed in a new home, returned to the breeder or, worst of all, taken to the pound!

Each breed was developed with a definite purpose in mind. Each breed (or most anyway) have breed specific health and or temperament problems of which you should be aware. Some breeds have coats that need hours of grooming to keep the dog in good shape. Some breeds shed more than others. Some breeds are very active and hyper while others are quiet and sedentary.

Because different breeds have different characteristics, it's a good idea to first define exactly what traits you want in a dog. Do you want a large dog, medium or small? What is the main purpose of having the dog, other than companionship? Do you want the dog to hunt with you? Do you want a dog that is a good guard dog? How about children? If you have them, you want to be assured that the breed you choose is going to get along with the kids. And if you do have children, what age are they? A dog breed that tends to be very hyperactive and aggressive would not be a good choice with very small children as the dog will likely do damage if it jumps on the kid and play bites. However kids in the 10 years and up range would probably thoroughly enjoy an active outgoing playmate.

What about grooming? How much time are you willing to spend on this chore? What about shedding? Some dogs don't shed at all and others shed almost constantly. How much noise are you willing to put up with? What about trainability? Some breeds are notoriously difficult to housebreak and/or train while others practically discipline themselves. If your interest is obedience, seek out those breeds that excel in the field. If you're a hunter and have visions of fall days in the duck blind with your trusty dog, you wouldn't go out and buy a Chinese Crested. If you hope to own a dog that will be around for 15 to 16 years, don't purchase a large breed.

Lana Hampton makes it easy to find the dog information you want. Visit her site today for the latest dog information.

---

Sugar Gliders: Tiny Acrobats

In the last decade or so, the popularity of sugar... Read More

The Grave of Gelert

Just south of Snowdon, in the grey-stoned village of Beddgelert... Read More

Have an Itchy Dog? Consider These Grooming Tips Before Turning To Chemical Treatments

Many dogs today suffer from itchy skin caused by a... Read More

Housebreaking Dogs and Puppies - A Step by Step Guide to Potty Training Your Dog or Puppy

If you're reading this I think it's safe to assume... Read More

The Wire Fox Terrier

Of the thirty-three terrier breeds (most of which were first... Read More

Training Your Dog

Training your dog can be time consuming and frustrating at... Read More

Lower Your Veterinarian Costs And Increase the Longevity of Your Pets Lives

What does doing natural preventative care mean? I thought vaccinating,... Read More

Round Pen: The Great Equalizer

Although many horsemen and trainers extol the virtues of the... Read More

Amazing Insights Of A Horse Training Expert From The Late 1800s!

Could a horse trainer, born about 154 years ago, teach... Read More

Top 5 Dog Health Problems

The most common dog problems:Dog Owner's commonly ask me the... Read More

Ensure a Good Relationship Between Your Cat and Your Kids

Many parents know that the best way for children to... Read More

How To Raise A Goldfish

Did you know that your goldfish can live for over... Read More

New Book Helps Worried Owners Of A Pregnant Cat

'Help, my cat is pregnant and I don't know what... Read More

Thinking of Getting a Lhasa Apso Dog?

One of the cutest looking dogs around is the Lhasa... Read More

Introducing a Cat to Your Children

Are cats and children a good mix?So, you had a... Read More

Is Your Dog In Pain Without You Realising?

A dog that is feeling pain can often be highly... Read More

Breeding Piranhas

Piranhas are unique creatures that have gained popularity not just... Read More

Dog Training Collars: Teaching Your Dog Basic Obedience and Breaking Bad Habits

Dog Training CollarsHaving a pet means having to provide for... Read More

Facts You Need To Know About Adopting A Dog

Mum, dad, can we get a puppy? Its a plea... Read More

Hypoallergenic Dogs

When we talk about hypoallergenic dogs, we mean that they... Read More

The Importance Of A Proper Correction

There are headstrong dogs that know too well that a... Read More

Disaster Preparedness for Pets - A Guide for Pet-Care Business Professionals

June is Disaster Preparedness for Pets month ? but if... Read More

Dogs Are Mans Best Friend

Dogs are believed to be descendants of wild wolves. They... Read More

Dog Potty Training: Can I Get My Dog to Stop Eating It?

Okay, so it's not the cleanest or most appealing of... Read More

Vet Check - Well-Bird Check Up

I know there are differing opinions on the subject of... Read More

10 Reasons Why Your Cat Loves You

There are plenty of reasons why your cat loves you.... Read More

Good Dog Care Is Vital

Dog careAccepting responsibility of your new pet friend is truly... Read More

Tips on Hamster Breeding

Hamster breeding can sometimes be confusing for a hamster owner.... Read More

Benny Comes Back!

This has been one of the most rewarding adventures I... Read More

Telepathic Communication With Animals

Animal Communication, or telepathy with animals, is as common an... Read More

Bird Cage Stands

Like us, birds need variety in life. To be happy... Read More

Dog Tricks: Understanding Your Dogs Capabilities Before You Teach Buddy New Tricks

The performing of dog tricks, while not a necessary part... Read More

Tips for Finding the Perfect Family Dog

If your kids have been begging you to get a... Read More