How To Choose the Right Dog for Your Family
So it’s time. Your kids have begged and pleaded and proven their responsibility, or maybe you have finally moved into a home that can accommodate a pet. You may be feeling trepidatious, excited and eager to meet your new family member all at the same time. So, how do you find the right dog for you? Here are three considerations to think about.
1. Breed
There are nearly 400 dog breeds officially recognized worldwide, and each has unique characteristics. Think about how active you are, how much you want to train your dog, whether or not you want to include your dog in certain activities like hunting or hiking, and how experienced you are with animals. Are you looking for pure bred dogs like champion breed German shepherd puppies, or would you prefer a rescue pup without a definite breed?
2. Size
Depending on your home size and how active you are, you may be looking for a larger or smaller pet. If you live in an apartment or condo without a backyard, you might find that a smaller dog will be happier in your home. Larger dogs can be an excellent addition to homes with backyards and owners with active exercise schedules. Remember a larger dog usually requires more exercise and more food. If you have small children, you might consider a medium-to-large dog that can handle a bit of rough love.
3. Age
Getting a dog as a puppy is a one-of-a-kind experience as you cuddle your new pup and teach them the lay of the land. Puppies adopted young may bond more strongly with the family. On the other hand, an older dog can save you the mess and stress of potty training and the chewing years. Either choice can be fabulous, so look into both.
Having a new pet join the family is an exciting time. Don’t forget to live in the moment and enjoy your dog, and they can be a loyal companion for years to come.…