The Right Breed for You

When purchasing a puppy for sale, you are not just getting a new pet. You are choosing a loyal companion and a lifelong friend. Since your new puppy will be dependent upon you throughout its life, it is important to select the right dog from the start. There is a dog for almost every lifestyle. Over 150 different breeds and varieties of dogs, from Boston Terriers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, to French Bulldogs and Havanese, are recognized and able to be registered. In addition, there is a variety of custom-hybrid dogs, like Puggles, Teddy Bears, and Schnoodles. With the large variety of dogs available, choosing the right breed may seem like a daunting task. The following questions will help you determine the right breed for you.

What do you want from your dog?

Do you want a large dog like a Golden Retriever or a German Shepherd, or a small dog like a Miniature Pinscher (Min Pin) or a Pug? Do you want a family playmate like a Cockapoo or a Yorkie? Are you looking for a good watchdog like a Rottweiler or a German Shepherd? Do you want a good hunting dog like a Labrador or a Golden Retriever?

Where do you live?

Dogs have different energy levels and exercise needs. Working dogs, like German Shepherds, and Blue Heelers (Australian Cattle Dogs), need plenty of exercise and room to run. They are best suited to rural and suburban homes with large, fenced in back yards. If you live in the city or in an apartment, then toy or small breed dogs, like Poodles or Yorkshire Terriers are a good fit. These dogs can be paper-trained and do not need a large area in which to exercise.

What kind of lifestyle do you lead?

Do you have an active lifestyle? Do you enjoy running or hiking? If so then a working dog like a Boxer or Labrador Retriever would be a good companion for you. Do you like to sit on the couch and watch TV? A small or toy breed dog like a Yorkie or Maltese would be the perfect companion to snuggle up with and watch a movie.

How much time do you have?

All dogs need some form of grooming. Long coated and double coated dogs, like Pekingese, Pomeranians, and Shetland Sheepdogs, tend to shed more than other breeds. Dogs with these types of coat need regular brushing to help prevent tufts of fur from landing all over the carpet. Wire-hair dogs, like Cairn Terriers, Westies, and Brussels Griffon need brushing to remove dead hair. Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles require professional grooming to maintain the ideal, show appearance

Do you have children?

If so, then some of the small or toy breed dogs, like Chihuahuas or Yorkies, may not be for you. These small dogs are not accustomed to the rough-and-tumble play of small children. There are several smaller breeds that do work well with children like, Miniature Pinchers, West Highland Terriers, and Bichon Frise.

Do you or anyone in your household have allergies?

If so there are several breeds that have hair rather than fur, like the Shih-Tzu, Bichon Frise, and Coton de Tulear.

What sort of temperament are you looking for?

Do you want a dog that forms a strong bond with its family? If so, either a Dachshund or Puggle would be a good choice. Are you looking for a strong, independent dog like a Siberian Husky or a Weimaraner? Some dogs, like Basset Hounds, Beagles, and Italian Greyhounds, follow their eyes or noses and can occasionally be oblivious to the presence of humans. Other breeds love to be the center of attention and have affection lavished upon them like Yorkies, Maltese, and Chihuahuas.

Few things in life are as rewarding as the companionship of a dog. No matter what breed you choose, your dog is going to be your most loyal and best friend for the rest of its life.