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162015Aug
Choosing a dog

Choosing a dog

By / In Blog / Comments(0)

So, you’ve decided you’re ready to get a dog.  “Now what breed should I get?”,  is a question often asked.  There are many factors to consider when adopting or purchasing a dog and choosing the breed of dog.  These things should always be considered before you acquire your new pet.  If not considered, the implications could be huge. Some of these might be…

  1. How much time can I give to my dog?Fotolia_60364861_M-900

Some dogs require more time and exercise than others.  Puppies are always a little more destructive than adult dogs and toilet and general training requires quite a bit of time.  If you work full time and are away most of the day, you may be best with a placid dog that doesn’t require lots of exercise or be prepared to consider doggy day care or a second dog to keep your dog company.

  1. Can I afford this dog?

What are the costs of having a dog?  Firstly, there’s the purchase price if bought from a breeder or pet shop.   Next is the basic costs of food, leads etc, vaccinations, de-sexing, microchipping, registration, grooming and worming and flea prevention.  Then you should also consider pet insurance and the costs involved if your dog became ill or had an injury.  These costs can be quite significant and may be greater in certain breeds and larger size dogs.  Some breeds are more  prone to certain disorders and it would be good to discuss this with your vet.

  1. What space do I have to keep my dog?

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If you only have a small unit or yard, then it would not be wise to get a dog that requires a lot of exercise unless you have the time to take it out at least twice a day for a good walk.

  1. Will the dog get along with my other pets?

If you already have another pet, you will need to think about the impact the new dog would have on that pet.  Two male dogs for instance (or sometimes two female dogs) may fight whereas a male and female, both de-sexed, may get along better.  A puppy may stimulate an older dog and improve quality of life but two puppies together may be more work than you bargained for.  Cats may become stressed with a new dog in the house and a period of adjustment will be required.

  1. I have children…. what’s a good breed of dog for kids?

Children under approximately 10 years need to be actively watched with any dog.  Any breed of dog is capable of biting if under stressFotolia_49937052_M-900 or pain.  Children need to be taught the correct ways of approaching & handling dogs. Socialisation and training are extremely important i.e. not to jump up on people, responding to instruction, lead walking manners, food manners etc.  Some breeds are more placid than others and these breeds should be chosen for families with young children.

So please do your research, chat with your vet and other people who have the breed of dog you desire so you can make an informed choice.  Hopefully then, you will have a stress free relationship with your new dog.