How to Choose The Right Dog for Your Family

So you've decided to add another member to your family and is wondering which dog would be the best fit? This article will give you some tips on the things to look for when choosing man's best friend.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time
• Patience

1. 
    

   First ask yourself if you or your family have the time to dedicate to your pet. Let's face it.. pets become one of our kids. They need shelter, food, love, attention, exercise, medical treatment. I will tell you the list goes on and on! But you definitely need to make sure that your pet can be walked several times a day. As well as given fresh water daily, and most importantly have all their immunization shots when needed.

2. 
    

   Now, think about the personality of your family. Are you very energetic or are you less of a physical kind of family? You want to select a pet that will have similar energy level traits as your family.

3. If you have a breed in mind be certain to research its common medical history and the breed' s personality. For example, cocker spaniels are known to be hunting dogs but are great around kids. However, they are prone for ear infections because their ears hang low and there is no room for proper ventilation. So just keep these things in mind.

4. Also, make certain you can provide proper shelter and other supplies when its time to bring your baby home. I'm not saying that you need a stock pile of cash. But you certainly do have to account for the supplies, food, and veterinarian visits that are required when you choose a pet.

5. 
    

   Once you have decided on your dog. Be certain to give it plenty of love and attention. Now is the bonding stage and you will have a friend for years to come!

Tips & Warnings

• Pets will do what you allow them to do. Try training them early so it doesn't lead to destructive behaviors.
• Never abuse your pet(s)!!! There are laws to protect innocent animals from mistreatment.

Resources

• Marley & Me

[SuperMom107]

on 5/6/2009 Thank you. We are looking right now for a dog. We definitely want to choose the right one.

[purplelioness]

on 2/24/2009 Really good, cute article. I enjoyed reading it.

[athenenoctua]

on 2/20/2009 Ever notice how people seem to get dogs that acts like they do? 5*

[RomaHong]

on 2/20/2009 I have always wanted to get a dog, but alas as your article points out I just don't have enough time / resources to devote to one. Thanks for breaking it down so simply.

[AmyRose]

on 2/20/2009 Good article, good for the new dog owners and the dog as well! 5* and I recommend you.