How to Find The Perfect Dog for You

Finding your perfect four-legged match is worth the effort.

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Are you in search of the perfect pet? Do you long for a Lassie of your own but don't know if the long fur is doable? If you are looking for a dog and aren't sure where to go or which breed(s) to pick, you've come to the right place. Read these simple tips to help find your pet match made in heaven.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Internet research
Dedication and love

Step 1

The American Kennel Club recognizes 7 different dog groups.

Check out the different dog breeds. Go online or borrow a few dog breed books from the library and browse through the different groups. You may have an idea what you're looking for but it's helpful to look at the breed histories, personalities, and care to get insight into what kind of dog would suit your lifestyle. If you like small dogs, for instance, but don't want a lap dog, you may find your ideal pet in the feisty terrier group.
Step 2

Make a list of the qualities you want in your dog. Take into account how much space, time, and money you have, and consider what kind of temperament you like in a pet. If you have children, look up breeds that are friendly with kids. Remember though that like people, dogs are individuals too, and not every dog in a breed is the same.
Step 3

A mutt is a unique mix of dog breeds that's hard to duplicate.

Armed with your dog knowledge, visit your local animal shelters. Check out the City Animal Control as well. There are millions of scared, homeless dogs in shelters that were given up, abandoned or neglected through no fault of their own and they will be forever indebted to you for rescuing them. Your breed knowledge will help you out at the shelter even if a lot of the dogs are mixed breeds because you can estimate what characteristics they have based on their special mix.
Step 4

If you feel you must have a purebred dog, look up the breed you're interested in on the Internet. Each recognized AKC breed has a rescue group that will connect you with beautiful dogs that need homes that are a fraction of the cost of the ones you'd find at a breeder.
Step 5

Ask lots of questions. Take your prospective friend on a walk and pet, play with and talk to him/her. Ask the rescue worker what they know about the dog and where s/he came from and if there have been any problems. Ask if the dog likes other animals, likes children, and has ever bitten anyone. Also ask about any health problems or issues that have come up.
Step 6

After sizing up all the prospects and doing your research, pick the dog that you feel a connection with and who seems to fit best with your lifestyle. Assume it will be a 10-plus year commitment and make sure you are ready for that. Now congratulate yourself on finding a dedicated, furry friend that will always be there for you! Paws up!

Comments

1InternetSmarty said

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on 3/14/2009 Excellent article. Five stars.

triciagoss said

on 1/21/2009 Great advice!

bossypants said

on 12/28/2008 Of course we already have found the perfect dog. ;) We are proof that rescue works, even for fancy looking breeds! Terrific article detailing the thoughtful preparation necessary to choose a companion animal.