What factors do you take into consideration when choosing a new dog?
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What factors do you take into consideration when choosing a new dog?
Speaking personally I have a stern word with myself about knowing my limits before I even start looking. I set a limit on size and care, I don't want a dog that needs a massive amount of grooming or clipping, then I think of temperament and how the dog would fit in with our family and how much exercise it would need. Having all that clear in my head helps me to let my head rule my heart when I visit a re-homing centre.
AGE - as I always take rescues my one rule is the dog must be between 3 - 6 years.
BREED - I would research the breed very carefully before choosing. Tbh, I have always had collie x's before I fell inlove with boxers..........I only got a boxer after walking someone elses for 2 years and talking to the owner at great length about them. I am lucky as I walk a few different breeds of dogs it gives me alot of insight into how they are....
TEMPERAMENT - because I walk and board other peoples dogs, the dog have to be ok around other dogs.
The age point is interesting. I guess the older the dog the more likely they are to need expensive vet care. I always adopt rescue dogs and I don't have an age limit as such, but I would have to think very carefully about taking on a dog that was more than about 8.
Thanks, some interesting points there. If taking on a younger dog it is important to consider how you expect your life will be for the next 15 years or so, because you will have a responsibility to care for that dog for the rest of its life.
Love and instant attraction. Seriously, it's just a nonverbal connection from the get go. Quite honestly, a few of my dogs have actually picked me instead of the other way around.
I have to admit that has happened to me too Orrymain, that is why I need to have a stern word with myself so that I stick to my limits and don't take on a dog that wouldn't really fit with our family situation.
I know what Orrymain means, but I need to be careful to choose the right dog for our circumstances, hnowing me I will want to take them all!
I think another important point is to understand that every dog is different and you can never find a dog that will be like the one you have lost. The new one will become special to you in it's own way.
That is absolutely right Kernow, you can never replace a much loved dog but you can learn to love a new dog and appreciate that dog as an individual.
Personally, I've only ever picked 1 dog & that was Jasper. I was looking & he just clicked with me. Of course, I wasn't really wanting a dog but I got outvoted by the rest of the family. But from what I've learned with Rocky & Jasper.... I would never go for a boxer again. It's not that I don't like the breed, I just don't think they are a good fit for our family. I actually prefer mixed breed dogs because they are more even tempered in my experience & they are less likely to suffer from a genetic disease like certain pure breeds. And kids, I would not pick a young puppy with kids that are younger than 8 or 10! Oh goodness it has been such a hassle trying to train Jasper and the girls so that they take him outside & stay out there long enough for him to take care of all his business not just 1 or 2, ya know what I mean?
My son has been absolutely wonderful with our dogs ever since he was little, in fact there have been times when he got on better with animals than people. The flip side of that is that he was devastated when our previous dog died, but I am afraid that is part of having pets, learning to say goodbye.
Phoenyxstarr I like mixed breed dogs very much, but most breeds have good traits and in the right circumstances they make good pets. The important thing is to choose the right dog for your family circumstances.
I agree, sometimes it's hard to let go of the "love at first sight" ;) but since I have a dog already, I have to make sure they would be comfortable living with the family and still young. and also, i'd rather adopt than buy. :D
There was a time when it was important to me that a dog was still young, but now my children are older and I wouldn't mind taking on an older dog.
The thing is, he did pick me and if I hadn't taken him, he'd probably be killed because he was walking around an industrial area. We suspect someone dumped him there. We don't have any no-kill shelters here so it was take him or know I was condemning him to death.
Orrymain, that has happened to my mum too. It would take a very hard heart to turn a dog away in those circumstances.
Orrymain, it seems that the dog's luck changed big style when he found you!
There are several factors to consider before choosing a dog. Most importantly, examine your current lifestyle and consider what adjustments you are willing to make for a dog
dog run
I have just joined this forum after reading your top 10 breeds to but when you have children, nowhere on that list was the staffordshire bull terrier. It is renowned for it's love of children, and are also RSPCA recommended as 'nanny dogs', I am maybe biased, as a staffy owner/lover for many years, but I strongly recommend that people research all dogs before they pick one to live with their children, because the list on here, is mainly a load of tosh!
The main thing which you must consider while choosing a new dog is that how many children are there in your home and what is their age and second thing which you can is the breed of the dog that you are going to choose and its totally upon you that which one you like. Dog trainers can also advice you for the choice of dog breed.
If you are thinking about getting a new dog, its best to a little research first. Bringing a new pet into your family is a big responsibility, so make sure you are 100 percent certain before you commit.
I'm also agree with you, and for me I always want to have a new puppy and I'm excited to train them everyday!
If you have decided that the time is right, congratulations! Now it is time to figure out what type of dog is right for you. There are several factors to consider before choosing a dog. Most importantly, examine your current lifestyle and consider what adjustments you are willing to make for a dog. Look at the needs of your family – especially if you have children. People with allergies, or those who prefer low-shedding dogs, might want to look into hypoallergenic dog breeds. Next, think about the ideal size, energy level and age of your new dog. Then, determine where to get your new dog. Just remember that getting a dog requires a firm commitment to responsible dog ownership.
I always choose cute, hairy and small kind of dog breeds.
Goldendoodle puppies for sale
Goldendoodle puppies for saleQuote:
Originally Posted by kyleharlan123
well i am agree with you. recently i bought Goldendoodle breeders from glamourdoodlesfl this breeders are well trained ...Quote:
Originally Posted by sophia_dave101
Really , Kernow ........... I totally agree with you, it's not easy to understand .......
My tips for you are:
Make sure that your home fits the dog's personality.
Know what exactly to do while you are choosing.
Neuter it before it's six months old.
In my case we wanted a small dog that can live well in an apartment, that is companion and doesn't bark to much so that we wouldn't go crazy and neither get complaints from neighboors. Given that, we decided to go with the shihtzu :) It was an excellent choice for our need.
Before you start, consider the following when choosing a dog
Does everyone in your home want a dog?
Do you have the time to provide exercise – walks and play, in all weathers and on dark nights, etc – and give adequate daily attention such as grooming?
Do you have time for the training and socialization a dog will require throughout life? You will be legally responsible for your dog’s behavior so ensure training and socialization are done correctly.
Can you afford the vet’s bills, including annual vaccinations and regular worming? Other expenses include providing a proper diet to keep your dog in good condition. Also, boarding kennel costs need to be considered if you have regular holidays where your dog will be unable to accompany you.
Can you provide a safe and secure home for the dog for life?