Choosing the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right breed of dog for your lifestyle is so important once you've made the decision to bring a new dog into your life. Although dogs make wonderful pets, you may not feel that way if you bring home a dog that is not suitable for the type of lifestyle you lead. Too often people get wrapped in the excitement getting a dog and forget that dogs have needs too, and that not all dogs are right for everyone. For example, if you're an extremely active person who wants a dog to take on hikes and bike rides, you need to find a breed that is very active. Similarly, if you live in an apartment, it's important to find a breed that doesn't need a large yard to be happy and healthy. Furthermore, if you lead an extremely busy lifestyle, you need to find a breed that doesn't mind being left alone for long periods of time.

With so many breeds to choose from, we understand it can feel a bit overwhelming to find the right breed for you. Here are some important questions to ask yourself when deciding which type of dog to bring home:

• How much time can I devote to walking and exercising a dog? How much exercise does a particular breed of dog need to be happy and healthy?
• Do I travel often? If so, who will watch my dog? What type of dog wouldn't mind being babysat by others?
• How much room can I offer a dog? Do I have a yard? How big will this particular breed of dog get?
• Should I get a long-haired dog or short-haired dog? How often does this particular dog shed? Am I willing to groom this dog as often as necessary? Can I deal with dog hair all over the house?
• How much food and what type of food does this particular type of dog need?
• Can I afford to take care of this dog if it gets sick or injured? Can I afford basic vaccinations and checkups?
• Can I devote the time needed to train a dog? Do I have the patience to train a dog?
• Is the particular type of breed I want good with children? Will it interact well with guests and other company? Does it like people in general?
• Is the particular type of breed I want good around other dogs? Will it be able to adapt to the dogs or other pets I already own?
• Do I need an indoor or outdoor type of dog?

If you have any additional questions you'd like to ask or address before bringing a dog into your life, your veterinarian should be able to provide you with the answers you need. Click here if you need help finding a veterinarian near you!