A Guide to Selecting the Right Breed of Dog for a Family Pet

If you have finally made the decision to go ahead and bring a dog into the family, your next choice will be the breed, and it is very important that you choose a breed of dog that fits in well with your lifestyle. One thing you must understand about dog ownership is you will have to make some sacrifices, and choosing a breed that best fits with your lifestyle will ensure that both the humans and the dog will get the most out of the experience.

The Ideal Size

Dogs come in all sizes from a miniature poodle to a St Bernard, and everything in between, and whether you prefer a small dog that will require less exercise, or a large dog to help you enjoy the great outdoors, it is very much a personal choice. As a general rule, the bigger the dog, the more exercise hell need, so make sure that your living circumstances and your energy level is appropriate for the breed you have in mind.

Energy Level

Some breeds require a lot of exercise and are extremely lively, while others need less in this department, and it is worth noting that behavioural problems usually stem from a lack of exercise and/or stimulation. If you live in the country and have time on your hands, a large dog like a Labrador or a German Shepherd protection dogs for sale would make for an ideal family pet, whereas, a city dweller with less free time on their hands might be better suited to a small or medium breed.

Responsibility

Whatever the breed you choose, it is a good idea to take out pet insurance. Owning a dog means you are responsible for his safety and well-being, and dogs can get sick, just like people. If you are bringing a puppy into the family, you should take the dog to the vet during the first week, when he can have his basic vaccinations and a thorough physical examination.

Diet

The key to a healthy dog is to put them on a balanced diet, with not too many treats or scraps of leftovers. Tinned food with dry biscuits as a supplement would be the ideal diet, and mealtimes should not vary. Most dogs only need to eat once a day, and that should be a substantial meal, preferably in the late afternoon, although some owners prefer to feed the dog in the morning.

Training

Whether a puppy or a rescue dog, you will need to introduce discipline, and whatever happens, do not let your dog do what he feels, as this will cause you difficulties in the future. The Internet is full of free resources that will help you learn about the breed, and remember that while breeds might have certain characteristics, every dog has its own personality, much like people.

With a little preparation and a lot of patience, your new addition to the family should fit right in with your routine, and if you encounter any problems, talk to the vet, who would have a wealth of experience with dogs.