How to Choose the Right Dog For You
By Riley Santoso
Copyright 2009

When it comes to choosing a pet of any kind, it’s important to think carefully about how you are going to care for it, the time you have to devote to it and more. This is especially true when it comes to choosing the right dog. After all, dogs require more attention, time, love and care than just about any other kind of pet. Their entire happy existence is dependent upon the love, affection and most of all, attention of the pet owner.

Therefore, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right dog for you. To start, look at the time you have to devote to caring for a dog. For example, most breeds require a great deal of attention, particularly if you are considering getting a puppy or younger dog. If you don’t have a lot of time, then an older dog might be a better option for you as they tend to need less attention and monitoring.

If you want a puppy or a dog that is not housebroken or even one with health problems, then it’s best if you either work from home or have a very flexible schedule that will allow you ample time to spend with your dog during the day.

Next, consider the breed. Every breed of dog comes with its own specific set of problems. Some breeds are prone to skin conditions; others are prone to illness in old age. Do your research on the breeds you are interested in, so you know exactly what you are getting when you choose a dog.

You should also make sure you are financially able to care for a dog, as some dogs require more “stuff” than others. For example, if you choose a puppy, you will need to invest in more toys, more frequent vet visits and products to assist in the process of housebreaking them.

You should also think about your expectations. If you are looking for a dog that will run and play with you, then you might consider a more playful breed, like a Labrador Retriever or a Beagle. If you want a dog for security purposes, then a German Shepard or a Doberman Pincher would be an optimal choice. If you are looking for a companion pet, then an English Bulldog or a Great Dane is a perfect choice.

However, ultimately, it comes down to personality. When you find a dog you want, it’s important to spend some time with him to ensure that the dog’s personality is in line with your expectations of the dog you want. No matter what the breed, the perfect match between owner and pet comes down to how well you and the dog interact, so this becomes the most important aspect of choosing the right dog for you.