So you’ve decided to get a dog for your family and are wondering which breed is right for you. That’s great! Now you just need to carefully decide what type of dog will be best for you and your family. The biggest considerations are size and the amount of care they’ll need, but there are plenty of other things to consider.
Different breeds also have different needs. Also families. You need to honestly ask yourself how much time you have for a dog. How big is your garden? How much time do you have to spend with your dog? Will you have time to walk them regularly? Have they trained? Do you have very young children at home? What will you do with the dog if you go on vacation often?
If you’re sure you want a dog, you need to think very carefully about what kind of breed will suit your family’s needs. What kinds of things should you look for when choosing a breed and buying the dog?
You should try to find out more about the breed before you get the dog. Try to read as much as you can about the breed you are thinking of choosing. It is really vital that you learn as much as you can about the breed you intend to buy. Some dogs are more susceptible to different genetic disorders.
Large dogs can suffer from all kinds of problems. Your joints and bones are vulnerable. They are more susceptible to hip dysplasia, a degenerative disease of the hip that can be painful and chronic. They take up a lot more space, so you’ll need a big backyard for them to run around in; they need a lot of exercise. If you’re on a tighter budget, you may want to consider a smaller dog because they don’t eat as much.
The smaller breeds have their own problems. Small dogs with short noses (muzzles) are much more susceptible to respiratory problems than their larger counterparts. This is because there is not as much room for the respiratory organs to develop. By looking at a puppy, you can’t tell if he will have health problems later in life. Smaller breeds are prone to sinus and nasal problems. There are many other breeds with specific associated health risks.
Grooming should be another consideration before purchasing a dog. If you have time to come over with your new Yorkshire Terrier or Maltese then get this breed. They require daily styling of the hair, however you can keep it short. The most self-sufficient breeds would be Boston Terriers or Pugs. They have such short hair that it needs very little maintenance.
Ask dog breeders any questions before deciding and buying the dog. A professional dog breeder can provide you with more information on the specifics of the particular breed you are considering.
