Having a dog means living in constant happiness and loyalty. They are the best friends that a person can have. They make incredible companionship. However, choosing the right dog for your family is a critical decision that you need to take some time to make.
Recognizing the qualities that you want in a dog is the first step that you should know before starting your research. This is because identifying a type of animal that goes in line with your lifestyle will make it easier to make a sound decision.
1- How the Temper of the Dog Should be?
Knowing the right mood and temper that will fit you and your family is the first and most essential factor that will help you to choose the right dog. The latter need to share a similar way of life as you and your family.
You must know whether you want a loving companion dog who will stay with you the whole day. Or are you looking for an independent dog? To know the answer, you have to recognize your overall lifestyle and the way you live.
Asking yourself the following questions may give you a clear idea of what you need:
- Puppy/adult: Do you want to choose a puppy or an adult dog? Bear in mind that young dogs need more training and supervision. If you are busy and don’t have much time, then an adult dog is the best fit for you.
- Where Do You Live? Do you live in an apartment or in a house with a yard? Some kinds of dogs cannot fit in an apartment such as a Border Collie. However, if you have time to take your dog for a walk, this could work.
- What Kind of Grooming do You Want to Deal With? While all dogs need to shed, long-haired dogs like Poodle and Cocker Spaniels will need more work than Great Danes does.
- Do Your Family Like the Dog? As soon as you know what kind of dog you want, you must ask your family whether they like the pet as much as you do.
– You also need to think about these extra questions:
- Will your dog stay alone for most of the day, or there will be someone with him?
- With whom your dog will be socializing? With your kids? Friends? Or some strangers?
- How do you usually spend your day, and how can your dog fit into it?
- What are the situations that your dog needs to be unjust to?
– Think about Your Entourage Before Choosing The Right Dog For Your Family
Since you are choosing a dog for your family, you have to take into account their personalities and preferences. You must agree, as a family, on the dog you are going to pick. If you do so, the coming of a new dog into your house will be easier.
2- Are You Able to Manage the Dog’s Energy Levels:
While you are looking for a dog for your family, take into consideration the level of exercise and stimulation you can provide. Ask yourself, do I have the ability and time to spend 2 hours each day practicing some exercises with my dog? It is crucial to mention that highly energetic intelligent dogs need exercise and stimulation to remain healthy, otherwise, they are going to be anxious and develop bad behaviors. Therefore, you need to know the dog’s energetic level before bringing it to your house.
3- Select the Dog’s size Before You Choose The Right Dog For Your Family
Yes! The size is important when it comes to choosing the perfect dog for your family. If you think that you want a tiny puppy because this size fits you more, don’t forget that the puppy will grow into a 100-pound bundle of muscle. What you need to consider is whether your new pet will fit within your house and the place given to him.
The following questions will guide you to choose the perfect size for you:
- What is the ideal dog size that will perfectly fit your home and car?
- Do you have the ability to handle large dogs?
- Large dogs normally eat more. Can you offer more food to them?
– Do You Have the Means to Take Care of a Dog?
Having a dog brings all kinds of responsibilities. One of which is financial responsibility. Before bringing a dog, take a piece of paper and do some maths. Write down the expected amount of money that you have to spend on your dog.
Dogs need food and treats, toys, a dog walker, veterinary expenses, dog grooming, and others. Moreover, if you are going to adopt a dog, this may cost you adoption fees, vaccination, local dog license fees, etc.
4- Be Open-Minded Before Choosing The Right Dog For Your Family
Selecting the right dog for your family can be critical. You may not find what you are visualizing in your mind right now. However, you need to have an open mind and an open heart. After all, love has no reason. We don’t choose who we love.
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Last Words
Having a dog inside your house brings unconditional love, friendship, companionship, and loyalty. All dogs deserve to have a great life, to live healthy and happy. You may have some preferences and considerations when it comes to choosing a dog. Try to know exactly what you need and what kind of dog fits in your life. Don’t rush, be patient, and choose the perfect dog for you and your family.