What’s the Best Dog Breed for Me? 10 Tips for Making the Right Choice

Dogs have been man’s best friend for centuries. Wolves, ancestors of modern-day dogs, were the first animals domesticated for human companionship. These dogs helped in tasks like hunting, herding, and guarding. 

Now, dogs are common companions and pets. In the US, there are over 90 million dogs among the 68% of households who own pets. Traits like friendliness and loyalty are what led us to bring dogs into our families.

Are you a first-time dog owner or looking for a new dog? You may be wondering what the best dog breed is. In this article, we give you some tips in choosing the best dog breed for you.

Size

Choose a dog that would best fit into your home. One size does not fit all for dogs and dog owners. Consider your living space when looking for the best dog breed for you.

A dog’s size includes its height and weight. If you live in a small home like a studio apartment or mobile home, adopt a smaller dog. Some of the best small dog breeds include chihuahuas, toy poodles, and beagles.

Temperament

Evaluate a dog breed’s general temperament before adopting a dog. Some breeds may be more friendly while others are protective or aggressive. Assess your needs before choosing a canine companion.

If you’re looking for a guard dog, you may consider getting a more aggressive breed. Check out one of the best large dog breeds, the Presa Canario breed! Friendly and easy-going dog breeds are more suitable for family environments.

If you have other pets, consider your dog’s compatibility with other animals. If possible, spend time with the dog itself to assess its personality. Dogs may vary in attitude in behavior, including those of the same breed.

Training

As a future dog owner, it is your responsibility to train your dog. Training your dog will benefit you and the entirety of your community and other dogs. When adopting a dog, ensure that you can put in the time to train your dog.

You may consider sending your dog to obedience training. But to achieve a good bond with your dog, you must dedicate time to work with them. Shy dogs may need socialization training.

Veterinary Expenses

Veterinary expenses are inevitable as a dog owner. Veterinary visits may range from grooming, vaccines, and circumstances like sickness or accidents. Other expenses include microchipping, dog food, and teeth cleaning.

Be prepared for your veterinary expenses when getting a dog. Bigger dog breeds may require more food expenses. Some dog breeds need extensive medical care.

Coat and Shedding

Consider each family members’ needs when looking for the best dog breed to take home. If you have family members who are allergic, get dogs that shed less. Some of these breeds include Maltese, Shih Tzus, and poodles.

Some breeds require extensive grooming to avoid getting clumped and matted fur. Depending on the breed, a dog may shed at certain times of the year. If you notice unusual shedding patterns, there may be an underlying health problem.

Age

Assess your lifestyle before choosing a dog breed. Some first-time dog owners feel undecided between choosing a puppy or an older dog. The perfect age for a dog depends on the owner.

If you often have a hectic schedule, choosing a puppy may not be ideal for you. Puppies need a lot of time and attention in training. If you choose a puppy, ensure you have enough time to train them.

Older dogs require less training. Many have obedience training experience from their previous owners.

Family-Oriented Nature

Small dogs may not be suitable companions for toddlers and small children. Small children may view the dogs as toys and cause harm. Other dog breeds are protective and may not do well with socially active families.

Your dog may feel stressed or scared of constant strangers. Labrador retrievers are generally good companions due to their gentle nature. If you get a puppy, you can easily train them to adapt to children.

Pedigree or Mutt

Choosing the best dog for you is easy if you know what you’re looking for. There’s a wide variety of dog breeds to choose from. Here’s a guide for the different types of dog breeds.

• Toy Group. These dogs fit well in small environments and are playful and hyper
• Herding Group. These dogs are the best companions for farms and families
• Terriers. These dogs may range from small to large and have high energy
• Working Group. Dogs like Rottweilers and Dobermans are great watchdogs but are not always ideal companions for children
• Hounds. Hound dogs like beagles and dachshunds are great hunting and family companions
• Sporting dogs. Labradors and Cocker Spaniels are some of the best outdoor companions
• Non-sporting dogs. These dogs are generally friendly and have good coats and size ranges
• Mutts. Mutts have a mixed bloodline, thus may have mixed personalities, endurance, and size

If you’re looking for a dog, consider adopting from a shelter. Adopting a dog instead of buying from a breeder can help you save a life. If you opt to buy from a breeder, look for reviews and referrals.

Climate

Assess the weather in your home before getting a dog. Some dogs have restrictions on climatic conditions. Dogs with thick and heavy coats may overheat in hot conditions.

Noise Tolerance

If you prefer a quiet home, choose a gentler breed. Guard dogs tend to have louder and more aggressive barks. Consider noise tolerance if you live close to your neighbors.

Get the Best Dog Breed Now!

Bringing a dog home can be a fun and exciting experience. The best dog breed for you is one that fits into your lifestyle. Find the best dog for you with these 10 tips in choosing a dog.

Of course, choosing the right dog is only the start. You also need to learn how to take good care of it and we’re here to help. Feel free to go over more of our content to pick up even more tips and tricks today!