How to Choose the Right Dog Breed for You
Important considerations when choosing a dog breed
Has the time finally come for a new or another dog in the family? Congratulations! You are now faced with several important decisions, including the choice of breed. Knowledge and gut feeling, preferably in that order, are essential tools in selecting who will become your future BFF. A well-thought-out choice is crucial for a wonderful life with your dog. Let your choice be based on the dog's characteristics and needs rather than appearance.
Origin Reveals a Lot
Whether you choose a purebred or mixed-breed dog, you should find out as much as possible about the dog's origin. The historical use of the breed(s) reveals the demands the adult dog will place on you, your environment, your living conditions, grooming, exercise, stimulation, and training. You can read about mixed breeds in the article Mixed Breed Dogs: Myths and Truths.
The Watchdogs
A guarding breed (deters intruders in their territory), a barking breed (alerts to intrusions), or a breed that hunts with baying or pointing will bark. Barking can be dampened with the right kind of training but is difficult to eliminate completely. Excessive noise can be inappropriate if you live in a densely populated area or may feel bothersome if you value silence.
An Inheritance, A Responsibility
Guarding breeds have the courage to drive animals/people away and may, therefore, be reserved and have social sharpness. They require responsible handling, don't suit everyone, and may need to have opportunities to guard to flourish. Early socialization training is beneficial to prevent their inheritance from becoming a burden. Therefore, teach the guardian that visitors are positive, and sharing resources like food doesn't mean losing them. Training should be conducted using positive methods; otherwise, increased sharpness may be triggered. For more insight into the social needs of dogs, see the article The Social Needs of Dogs.
Some Need to Run, a lot!
Breeds that work independently and far from their handler, like sighthounds or hunting dogs, have a large action radius. They enjoy running far away from you if allowed off-leash. They need to be allowed to run freely, so a good recall is essential. For tips on leash training, you can also read Everything You Need to Know About Leash Training Your Dog Correctly.
Cooperative and Compliant
On the other hand, dogs bred to work closely with their handler, like retrievers or working dogs, come with a degree of compliance.
Many Need Substantial Work
Many dogs require regular, substantial work. For example, polar dogs. Pulling is a natural behavior for them, and if not provided an outlet, it may lead to issues. Therefore, early leash training can be important. The breed group also has a strong hunting instinct.
Some Love to Carry
Retrieving breeds love to grasp and carry objects in their mouths. If you want to keep a retriever's tail wagging, let the dog carry objects and don't scold them for it. But it involves a lot of picking up and carrying items around the house.
Water Passion
Water-retrieving breeds will love water in all its forms: muddy puddles, water holes, rain barrels, bathtubs...
Hunting Dogs for Hunters
A hunting or herding dog requires a lot of exercise and even more mental stimulation. Hours a day, especially if they don't get to perform their natural tasks. Stress-related problems are common among these breeds if they remain jobless. Don't get a hunting dog unless your intention is to hunt.
A Social Aspect
A dog bred to work in cooperation with other dogs or humans is socially open, unlike a one-person dog with characteristics like guarding. If you are social and want to spend time with others along with your dog, consider your breed choice from that perspective.
Barking Barkers
Pure companion dogs like a Tibetan Spaniel, Pug, or Japanese Chin are often naturally noisy, and barking is expected but can also be trained for alertness. However, it takes time and consistent action from you as the dog parent.
Reflect on Yourself
It's important to know yourself when making your breed choice. What do I want? What can I really handle? How much responsibility do I want to take on? What can I give a dog in terms of time and commitment? Will I groom daily or is once a week more likely? When these and many other factors are considered, it becomes easier to make a wise decision and have the opportunity for a rewarding life with your dog in harmony. If you are a new dog owner, the article Puppy Developmental Stages - Important Information for All Puppy Owners can be very helpful.
We hope these insights will help you choose the perfect dog breed for your needs and lifestyle.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
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