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How to Choose a Dog Breed
Choosing a dog breed is an important task and should be treated
with seriousness to make sure you are compatible with your dog
in every way. Before getting a dog, think about each of the
following aspects to ensure you make the right choice. Choosing
from the popular dog breeds is not a solution; you need to find
the perfect dog for you and your family.
Size of Your Home
When buying a dog, you need to consider how big your home is
and how much space you can offer your pet. Certain breeds are
happy to spend their time slumbering in a small place, while
others will be miserable in an apartment.
If you live in an apartment, there are several low and medium
energy breeds that are more suitable for apartment life.
Typically, large breeds need more space and even a yard to play.
Time You Can Spend with the Dog
If you are a busy person, you need a dog that can do well
when left alone at home. Dogs can get bored when left alone at
home for too long and may develop behavioral problems. The dog
also needs to spend his energy, so you need to take some time
and take him out for walks and play with him.
Low energy dogs need less time outside while high energy dogs
may need as much as 2 to 3 hours of activity per day.
Your Personality
The personality of the dog should match your personality. In
order to establish dominance, you need to have a stronger
personality than your dog.
Consider also the following aspect: an active dog may get
frustrated by a calm owner and vice-versa.
Energy Level
The energy level of the dog you choose should be suitable to
your lifestyle, free time and your home.
If you have enough space and a yard, you can get a high
energy dog that can spend his energy outside, even if you don’t
have the time to play with him.
If the dog doesn’t get to spend all his energy, he is prone
to obesity and may develop unwanted behaviors such as chewing or
he might even get depressed.
Shedding and Grooming Needs
Certain dog breeds need more grooming than others. Typically,
short haired dogs need less grooming. Also, short haired dogs
shed less amounts of hair, while long haired breeds will fill
your home with hair.
Dogs for Children
If you have children, you need to consider buying dogs for
children.
The dogs for children need to be clever and friendly. The
best dogs for kids are low or medium energy dogs.
Feeding Cost
You also need to consider the amounts of food your dog needs.
The feeding cost depends on several factors: the type of food
you choose (canned or dry food), the size of the dog and the
energy level.
On average, smaller dogs need less food.
The more energy a dog spends the more food he requires.
You have to take into consideration that some dogs require
special diets.
Health Care Cost
The health care cost also depends on the dog and his health
condition. You need to take your dog for a routine check-up a
few times per year, get some vaccines and you might have
unexpected vet emergencies. You may opt for pet healthcare
coverage.
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