Owning a dog in our modern world is a growing practice for people worldwide. Whether for security reasons or just because you want a nice companion who will be with you throughout your life and remain loyal to you, a dog is usually the first choice. But choosing the right dog that’ll suit your lifestyle is challenging. Choosing the wrong dog could leave you with more work than you initially anticipated and even create more problems.
We, like you, know just how heartbreaking it is when a puppy you picked doesn’t turn out the way you expected because of its personality or what it is bred for. That is why we have taken our time to develop a guide to help you know what to look for when choosing a puppy to meet your lifestyle.
Here are nine things to consider when choosing a dog or puppy that suits your lifestyle…
- Breeds Energy Levels.
- Breed size.
- Your Time and Commitment.
- Your Allergies.
- Your Living Situation.
- The Breeds Temperament.
- Training and Socialization.
- The Breeds Health and Lifespan.
- Breeds compatibility with your family.
These nine things are all equally important if you get the right puppy that suits your lifestyle. So for more assistance, we will cover everything involved in carrying out these processes correctly.
Table Of Content
Choosing the Perfect Dog in Nine Steps (For your Lifestyle) Explained.
1. The Breeds Energy level.
Consider your activity level and choose a puppy that matches it. Some breeds are more energetic and require lots of exercise and mental stimulation, while others are more laid-back and require less activity. Ignoring this first rule is why most new dog owners get frustrated with their new dog.
So if you want to avoid being part of these dog owners categories, choose a dog breed that suits your activity level. Some good dog breeds for high-energy people are the German Shepherd working line, Pitbull, Belgian Malinois, and Husky.
And if you are a person who prefers a low-energy dog, any mastiff breed is cool, or you could also consider getting a Rutwielr or Golden Retriever. The fact is that no matter what your energy level is, there is a dog that will match. But to ensure that you get this first part6 right, go through professional breeders with a strong reputation for delivering only the best.
2. The Breeds Size.
Think about the puppy size you can comfortably accommodate in your living space. Larger breeds typically require more space, both indoors and outdoors. And the dog’s size should always depend on the size of your house. Some smaller breeds may require even larger space because of their working drive. So, it would help if you did a lot of research to find the right breed that will fit comfortably into the space you have allotted and will not require extra effort to adjust living situations.
3. Your Time and Commitment.
Puppies require time and attention for training, socialization, exercise, and grooming. Consider how much time you can devote to your puppy’s needs and choose a breed that fits your schedule. If you are busy and will not have time to train a dog, we recommend getting a dog or puppy that has already received basic training and will be comfortable with you not always being around. For this part, it is important to discuss with multiple breeders how much it will cost you to have your new dog come with basic training.
4. Your Allergies.
If you or someone in your household has allergies, consider hypoallergenic breeds that shed less dander and are less likely to cause allergic reactions. If you are not sure you have any allergies, we recommend discussing with your doctor to know your current health status and whether or not you have any dog-related allergies. Ensure all your family member also get their health checked. The last thing you want is for someone in your family, or you constantly sneeze anytime your fluffy friend is around.
5. Your Living situation.
Take into account your living arrangements. Some puppies are better suited for apartments or smaller spaces, while others may require access to a yard or more room to roam. To put it in simple terms, if you live in a small house or an apartment building, it is best to get a low-energy breed. But if you have enough space and a large yard, you can choose from a low or high-energy breed, depending on your energy levels.
6. The Breeds Temperament.
Consider the temperament and personality traits of different breeds. Some breeds are known to be more independent, while others are more affectionate or social. Consider what kind of temperament you prefer in a dog and choose a breed that aligns with your preferences.
7. Breed Training and socialization.
Some breeds are easier to train than others, while some may require more socialization to prevent behavioral issues. Assess your experience with dog training and socialization and choose a puppy that matches your skill level and commitment. You could also work to improve your pup’s socialization skills using our well-detailed step-by-step guide.
8. Lifespan and health considerations.
Different breeds have varying lifespans and potential health issues. Research the common health problems associated with specific breeds and consider any potential long-term costs or care requirements. It is also important to ensure that your potential dog has minimal health issues and will be easy to maintain without needing to bleed money. Doing this will help you create a budget that will help you conserve money throughout your dog’s life.
9. Compatibility with family and other pets.
If you have children or other pets, choosing a breed known to be good with them is important. Some breeds are more tolerant and patient with kids, while others may not be as suitable for households with young children or other animals. So to ensure you get the dog with the right attitude and temperament, it is important to do enough research.
Final Thoughts
Remember that individual dogs within a breed can still have unique personalities and traits, so spending time with the puppy and getting to know its temperament before making a final decision is essential. Additionally, adoption from shelters and rescue organizations is always a great option to consider, as they often have a variety of mixed-breed puppies that can make wonderful companions.
