Have you considered everything?
Before you even decide which dog is right for you, make sure you're dog-ready. Remember that acquiring a dog is not a trivial purchase and requires a firm commitment from its owner for 10 to 15 years.
Indeed, a dog is a living being who, like the other members of your household, needs love, tenderness, play, walks, food and of course education. .
Raising your dog and toilet training will require a lot of time, patience, work and calm.
Owning a dog also has a cost that should not be overlooked: food, accessories (collar, basket, toys, transport cage, etc.), veterinary costs. Have you thought about setting a monthly budget for your four-legged friend?
To help you take everything into consideration, do not hesitate to consult our article on questions to ask yourself before adopting a dog.
Once all these elements have been taken into account, it will then be time to ask yourself what type of dog is made for you!
A small or a big dog?
Do you prefer big dogs or small dogs?
Some small dogs are more delicate and more vulnerable to injury than their larger counterparts. Being stepped on or roughed up by small children can cause serious injury to them.Additionally, small dogs can be more sensitive to cold temperatures, so be prepared to help them warm up in the winter by outfitting them with a coat. They may also need more frequent meals and hygienic outings due to their small size. Don't forget that small dogs also need firm and consistent training! Sometimes we don't bother to train small dogs like we would a larger dog because they are easy to catch and physically get out of tough situations. But this can lead to undesirable behaviors, which, in the long term, could transform them into real little "domestic tyrants" difficult to live with on a daily basis.
Very large dogs need a little more space to move around. Large dogs with long tails will need slightly larger living spaces to avoid sending all your items home at the slightest burst of excitement.Current expenses are also to be taken into consideration: the larger the dog, the more expensive the dog food, accessories and veterinary treatments. Education is also a key factor. If you buy a large breed or giant breed puppy and you don't train him, especially in walking on a leash, it will be very difficult for you to hold him back on each of your walks!
But, contrary to popular belief, the size of your home should not be enough to determine the size of your future dog. Even apartment dwellers can adopt large dogs. As long as the dog's exercise needs are met (through long walks, trips to the dog park, and activity sessions), the dog's living space doesn't have to be proportional to its size. are to be nuanced! We grant you, a Saint Bernard will surely not be the most fulfilled if its owner lives in a studio It's all about common sense!
What level of activity?
You probably already know that some dogs have more energy than others. A dog's activity level is often determined by its breed. The dogs with the most energy are most often the so-called working dogs such as sheepdogs or hunting dogs.
For example, if you know you can't commit to more than one or two short walks a day, you're probably better off choosing a companion dog like a French Bulldog that isn't of the most enduring nor of the most athletic. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a dog that can be a jogging partner, you may be able to consider a breed like an Australian Shepherd.
But, that doesn't mean you can rely on breed alone to determine your dog's energy level. Always keep in mind that couch dogs do not exist! All dogs need daily exercise and spending, regardless of breed or size, so make sure you can provide it daily.
Be prepared to adjust the amount of exercise and attention you give your dog as needed. A constantly barking, digging in your garden, destructive dog may simply lack physical and mental expenditure!
Before adopting a dog, it is therefore important to do your research and make sure that the dog you are considering is compatible with your lifestyle and habits.
What level of maintenance?
The time and budget you can devote to grooming a dog and the extent to which the hair loss bothers you can also factor into the choice of your future companion.
While all dogs need basic grooming, certain types of dogs need more care depending on their coat. If you have a dog whose hair grows continuously, daily brushing and regular visits to the groomer, at least three to four times a year, will be essential.Most short-haired dogs will be satisfied with a weekly brushing but will lose a lot more hair in your interior. Get ready to vacuum your home daily.
Also know that dogs with long, floppy ears are more prone to ear infections and should be given special attention.
Small dogs are more prone to oral disease, which may require more frequent scaling at the vet as well as daily brushing of their teeth at home.
A dog of what age?
Puppies require a lot of time and attention, especially during the first six months of potty training and socializing your little animal. During this time, also expect many "small accidents" around the house and your dog chewing on many of your furniture and personal items.
An adult dog may be a better choice if you want to get a good idea of your new dog's true energy level, attitude and temperament. But, it is not because the dog is an adult that he is educated. Depending on the case, you should therefore expect to devote time to it so that your dog adapts as well as possible to his new life in his new home.
A senior dog can be a wonderful companion if you are looking for a calmer dog. It's important to know, however, that your senior dog needs extra attention, more frequent veterinary checkups, and is more likely to develop he alth issues that cost time and money to fix.
A pedigree dog or a cross?
If you want a purebred dog, be sure to research the breed you want thoroughly to ensure the breed will fit your family and lifestyle.Also consider whether you are ready for the potential challenges related to the energy level, behavioral characteristics, grooming needs, and he alth issues unique to this breed. Then start looking for a serious dog breeder.
If you go for a mixed breed dog, know that combining two or more dog breeds can often balance their personalities and physical characteristics. But expect the unexpected because it's impossible to know exactly what your puppy will look like as an adult. The richness of its genetic heritage will also likely make it a little less vulnerable to genetic diseases than a purebred dog.