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Selecting a Dog Breed

Many times people will call and ask us which breed is the best. They are hoping for a simple answer but there is no one breed that fits all situations! You must consider the following:

1. Do you prefer a big or small breed?

2. Would you prefer a dog with long or short hair? That sheds or does not shed? Needs to be groomed or just needs an occasional bath?

3. What is your activity level?

4. Do you plan to fence your yard? Do NOT expect a dog to get exercise simply by being out in the yard. Most dogs will still need to be walked daily.

4. What is your goal with this dog? Is it to be a family pet, working dog, show dog, or used for breeding?

5. What is the true function of the breed? For example, if you obtain a breed that is used for herding and barks to perform this function, expect it to bark often at home. Those who herd by heel-nipping may do the same with children. Dogs used to pull sleds or weights are probably going to need a lot of work to walk politely on a leash. Beagles who bay during the chase may also bark excessively at home. Breeds bred for protection will potentially be aggressive in other situations as well. Hunting breeds who are expected to run miles upon miles every day will want to do so in your home as well. Can you meet their exercise needs?

6. Consider what health problems are typical of the breed. No breed is perfect but some problems are more frustrating than others depending on your preferences and lifestyle. For example, if you care to have a meticulous house, a dog prone to skin problems (and the odor associated with it!) is not the breed for you. If you want to spend weekends hiking in the mountains, beware of breeds prone to hip dysplasia as you may have to leave your companion home alone.

7. What are your financial abilities? Not only will this determine the breed you can afford to buy but also your ability to take care of medical conditions that may occur. Particular breeds are prone to chronic skin, ear, eye and other problems that can be very expensive and very frustrating.

8. Do you care if your dog is ever housebroken? Some breeds are notoriously impossible to housebreak. You should avoid such breeds if you care about your Oriental rugs.

9. Do you have children and need a breed that is good with younger people or will it be around elderly people, in which case, a mellow breed may be preferred?

10. Does anyone in the household have allergies?

1. Do you want the pet to travel with you? If so, the larger the dog the less welcome it will be at most hotels and possibly friends’ homes as well. The more calm, cleaner breeds will be easier as travel companions.

12. Do you live in an apartment that is rented or an owned home? If an apartment, your landlord may have restrictions as to the type of pet allowed. If you plan to move in the future, be sure you will be able to take your pet. It is very common for people to get a dog then have to move and not be able to take it with them.

13. Do you want a pet that will be calm in the house or will it be acceptable to have a pet in constant motion or in constant need of affection and attention.

Keep in mind—no breed is without faults. All breeds have personality or medical issues of one sort or another and you must decide what is going to be a problem for you and what will be acceptable for your particular situation.

Once you have considered all these items, you are ready to start looking at appropriate breeds. You have narrowed the selection greatly! Start by reading the AKC Complete Book of Dogs and The Perfect Puppy by Hart. Once you have narrowed the list down further you can begin to talk to breeders and meet the dogs in person. The puppy will most likely have a personality like its parents. If the parents are not friendly, are unhealthy, or are hyper, your puppy may be also. Choose wisely. This animal will be a part of your family for many years to come.