How To Pick the Right Dog Breed for Your Family
The thought of adopting a dog more than likely fills both you and your children with excitement. However, pet ownership is a huge responsibility, which is why you must make an informed choice before welcoming a pet into the family home.
Your lifestyle, finances, and dedication should determine the breed you choose, which is fair for both your loved ones and your new best friend. Find out how to pick the right dog breed for your family.
Choose the Right Activity Level
Your physical activity level will determine your pet’s physical activity level, which is why you must pick the right dog breed for your family. Of course, every dog must enjoy some exercise each day, but some will require much more physical activity than others. For instance, if you cannot commit to more than one to two walks per day, you must welcome a low energy dog into your home, such as a:
- Basset Hound
- Bulldog
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Boston Terrier
- Pug
- Great Dane
However, if you have the time and motivation for a high energy dog, you could welcome one of the following breeds into your home:
- Afghan Hound
- English Setter
- Weimaraner
- Brittany Spaniel
- Border Collie
- Golden Retriever
A high-energy dog could encourage you off the sofa to embark on some physical activity, so a pooch could be a great way to create a healthy, happy family.
Consider a Dog’s Temperament
While every dog is different, each breed has various temperaments that you should consider before welcoming them into your home. For example, if you love the idea of relaxing with a calm, quiet pooch, you must pick a laidback dog breed, such as a French Bulldog, Basset Hound, or Irish Wolfhound. It will help your new pet to fit into your family seamlessly, and you will find it hard to remember what life was like before they entered your home. Choosing the right dog breed for your family is an important decision that should not be taken lightly.
Learn About Physical Maintenance
Every dog breed will need basic grooming. However, some breeds may need more maintenance than others due to their hair coat type. For example, if you buy a long-haired dog, it will require a more extensive grooming routine. However, even short-haired dogs will shed a substantial amount of fur you will need to clean up.
Also, a dog’s ear type will determine its grooming routine. For example, canines with floppy ears are more susceptible to ear infections and need thorough and frequent ear cleanings. Learn about a breed’s maintenance needs to make sure you select the right dog breed for your lifestyle.
Pick the Best Age for Your Family
Puppies might be cute and cuddly, but they will require a great deal of attention and training. As you will be busy raising children, a puppy might not be the right fit for your family at this time. Instead, an adult or senior dog might be a more suitable option, especially depending on the right dog breed.
While there is no guarantee they will have been trained by previous owners, they will likely have experienced some degree of socialization and potty training.
