How to Choose a Dog Breed

You may never find the perfect man or woman, but you can find the perfect dog. Due to the vast number of dog breeds, there are lots of options when choosing a dog. If you want a dog that will meld right into your life, simply pick the size, temperament and breed that's right for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look around your dwelling. Determine what size of full grown dog can you accommodate comfortably. Plan on whether it's large wagging her tail destroying your prized collection or a small dog that gets lost in your rooms.

2. Consider whether the dog is around children or the elderly. Think about what role do you wish the dog to fill.

3. Take into account price. Calculate the money you must spend to obtain and maintain your dog. Reflect on any health problems that are typical for the breed and that would require a veterinarian's attention.

4. Choose a dog on the basis of the amount of time and energy you have to care for the dog. All breeds require attention and exercise. Ponder whether or not the breed is typically easy to train and how much grooming is required.

5. Purchase your dog from a reputable breeder or shelter. Spend time at the shelter or breeders getting acquainted with the dog if you plan to purchase an adult dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Large/Medium Dogs that are high energy or require a lot of attention: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Greyhound, Rottweiler, Pit Bull, Beagle, German Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Poodle, Dalmatian, Weimaraner.
• Large/Medium Dogs that are lower energy or require a little less attention: English Bulldog, Bassett Hound, Newfoundland, Mastiff, Great Dane, St. Bernard, Old English Sheepdog.
• Small Dogs that are high energy or require a lot of attention: Pug, Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Papillon, Welsh Corgi, Jack Russell Terrier, German Spitz.
• Small Dogs that are lower energy or require a little less attention: Maltese, Dachshund, Boston Terrier, Bichon Frise, French Bulldog, Toy or Miniature Poodle, Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, English Toy Spaniel.
• Breed is not a guarantee of temperament. Spend time with the individual dog to get an idea of its behavior.

[amberdusk]

on 4/25/2009 This is something a lot of people just don't take into consideration...taking the time to research the right dog breed before jumping in saves stress and heartbreak later! Thanks for your article.

[heatherinks]

on 4/25/2009 Don't forget to check out your local kill shelters - adopting a dog means saving two lives - the dog you adopt and space for the next one! I read that about 10 dogs and 45 cats are born for every person, sad. God bless.

[dorigillman]

on 4/21/2009 nice article. however, being an owner of a maltese (the second one, in fact), they need a lot of attention and company. they may not need to be walked a lot, but they want to go with you wherever you are and be on your lap at all times!

[davidcavalier]

on 4/20/2009 great ehow

[bretdesgro]

on 4/20/2009 Nice Article