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Step 1
Think about the place you live in. Is it an apartment, a trailer home, a house, or a mansion? For example, if you live in a small apartment, getting a big, active dog such as a golden retriever, might present a problem. However, if you have your own house, and children that love animals, getting a golden retriever may be perfect.
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Step 2
Think about your lifestyle. Are you an active person that needs a jogging partner and companion on a boating/hiking trip? Or do you need a dog to be a couch potato with you? If you are active, you'd enjoy a bigger dog, who can go swimming with you, or accompany you on that long daily hike of yours. If you prefer to stay home, getting a smaller dog may be good.
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Step 3
How much time do you usually have on your hands? Would you be able to take care of a high maintenance dog, that requires often bathing, and constant hair cuts? Or would a short haired, low maintenance breed fit you best?
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Step 4
Take all those considerations in mind, and decide which animal would make you the happiest, and which you'll make happy in return.
Comments
achenoweth said
on 6/17/2009 Great article. 5*
mralarcon said
on 6/15/2009 How to Choose the Right Dog for You and Your Family
good info most people don't think about this enough
MyJB said
on 6/13/2009 All dogs are definitely more work than cats; I've had a lot of both, big and small. I like dogs better that cats; however, I wish dogs were as low maintenance as cats. Good article.
Kallicat said
on 6/9/2009 I would suggest researching breeds as well cause not all small dogs are alike. Chihuahuas are very much a loyal one person dog and Jack Russell Terriers are super high energy and require LOTS of exercise. Some small dogs are good with children, others are not. Whatever family pet a person gets, they should thoroughly research the traits and be sure they would be happy with the pet.
FrazzledNanny said
on 6/9/2009 This is such an important and well written article on choosing the right dog for me and my family. 5*