Deciding to become a puppy owner can be a big decision. Whether you’re opting for a purebred or a beautiful mixed breed from a shelter, the choice is bound to be difficult and checking your emotion at the door isn’t always easy. Here is the URTO guide to staying focused when choosing your forever pooch.
Table of Contents
EXERCISE REQUIREMENTS
Are you a bit of a couch potato or are you the sort of person who wants to get up and run 5km every morning? The level of activity you have and expect to have for the next 10 to 20 years is important when choosing a dog. You want an animal that will fit in with your lifestyle to ensure you both get the best out of each other.
GROOMING
Your pet’s grooming could take a lot of time. If you don’t enjoy sitting and brushing your dog on a regular basis, a breed such as the Pomeranian may not be for you. Perhaps a more wash-and-wear animal would be better suited, like a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
SIZE
Looking for a dog to cuddle up with on the couch in the evening? Not all dogs will fit into that lifestyle. Similarly, if you’re after a canine companion for those super-long morning walks, a tiny canine with shorter legs may not be able to join you due to potential exhaustion.
PERSONALITY
Temperament is perhaps the most important thing to consider when choosing your pet. Ask your breeder or shelter care attendant about the personality of the dog and the traits that are known in that breed. It also pays to keep in mind what your dog was originally bred for; a working dog, for example, will require lots of physical and mental stimulation to keep it happy, whereas a breed from the toy group will likely require a little less.
YOUR FAMILY
Finally, keep in mind the size of your family when choosing a puppy. Are you likely to have a newborn within the next 10 to 20 years? If so, are you sure you have enough room in your life for a baby and a dog? Do you have young children who may be knocked around by a larger breed? Are you likely to be moving from a larger property to a smaller one? All these things should be considered before purchasing your new pet.
Of course, the person who can best advise you on whether the pup with the cutie-pie looks is the best choice for you is someone who sees the pup every day. Go to see the pup and discuss some of the care points mentioned above with the breeder or shelter care worker. After all, a dog is for life. You want to make sure you get the very best for both you and your four-legged friend.