Thinking about getting a dog soon? If so, researching different breeds is a fantastic place to start. Every dog is different, and while many breeds make fantastic family companions, others do not!
Below, we’ve explained the most important things to consider when you’re looking for the most suitable dog. By finding out the most compatible breeds, you’ll be more likely to form an unbreakable bond with your dog.
Temperament
The temperament – or personality – of your future family pet is the most important factor. While all breeds are predisposed to have certain tendencies, every dog is unique.
Do your research to find out what sort of dog most suits your household. Are you looking for a loyal, protective dog, or would you prefer an active and independent furry friend for your outdoor adventures?
When a puppy is born, there are some early indicators of their natural tendencies. Make sure to find a responsible breeder who allows you to visit the pups and meet both parents.
Natural instincts
Different dogs have different natural instincts, also known as drives.
This is because each breed has been purposefully produced over hundreds of years to display certain traits and characteristics. A gundog, for example a Cocker Spaniel or Labrador Retriever, will come with a built-in desire to carry and retrieve objects. Perfect for playing fetch!
It’s vital to choose a dog with drives that you can cater for. Some dogs have naturally lower drive levels – and so make great family pets for lounging around the house. These include the French Bulldog and Papillon.
Don’t choose a high-drive or working dog if you don’t have time and energy to commit to their training. Being able to fulfil your dog is essential.
Health, maintenance and care
It’s worth thinking about the long-term care for your pup. Some breeds of dog are genetically predisposed to health conditions and joint issues, although this might not be an issue if you’ve chosen your breeder well.
Think about grooming, feeding and daily exercise requirements. Larger dogs might naturally incur higher costs just because they’re bigger – they eat more, they need larger accessories and often require more stimulation.
Accommodating your dog’s needs is essential. If you’re thinking of buying a large breed dog, it’s worth investing in appropriate large dog beds to keep them comfortable. Crate training will also help your dog learn how to settle on their own, no matter their breed.
Adult size
Finally, the adult size of your dog matters, especially in a family household. But don’t be fooled into thinking that smaller dogs will always have lower energy levels and vice versa.
Small but tenacious working dogs, including the Jack Russell Terrier and Dachshund, might not be suitable as family pets. Any dog poses a physical risk to small children, especially if they’re not trained according to their temperament and breed needs.
But thinking about your physical capabilities is important. If you’re a calm, confident leader, you can choose any breed size. The most important thing is to give your dog what it needs, both in terms of exercise and mental stimulation.