How to Find the Right Breed of Dog For Your Needs
- 1). Determine the reason for getting a dog. This is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when choosing a particular breed of dog. Are you looking for a companion animal? Do you need a dog with a specific set of instincts, such as herding or tracking? Do you need a dog with an outgoing and friendly, aggressive or submissive personality? What about trainability? All of these questions should play into your decision regarding what type of dog you are looking for.
- 2). Research the types of dogs that match your interests. Read as much as you can about breed characteristics and determine how each breed will fit your needs. If you have a specific, physical job in mind, then a working breed dog like a Boxer, Doberman or Rottweiler might make the best choice. Hunters should look toward the hound group or consider a retriever and farmers may benefit from looking for a dog in the herding group like a Collie, Border Collie, or German Shepherd.
- 3). Determine the amount of space you have. This includes indoor and outdoor space. Certain dog breeds require lots of exercise. If you are unable to commit to a rigorous exercise regimen, it makes sense to have a large outdoor area for your dog to run in. Some dogs are not well suited to being outdoors for long periods of time. You will need to provide appropriate accommodations for these dogs either inside your own home or by building an outdoor facility that can cater to the specific needs of the dog. Larger dogs and dogs belonging to the working, herding, hound, and terrier groups tend to be higher maintenance when it comes to needing exercise.
- 4). Determine your commitment to grooming. Some people enjoy brushing, bathing and primping their dogs on a daily basis, while others prefer the no fuss, no muss type. Determine how much time and effort you are willing to commit to grooming before choosing a dog that will require regular clipping, brushing and bathing. Many small breed dogs and dogs that belong to the non-sporting groups have longer, finer hair that will require more grooming than others.
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