The Importance Of Choosing The Right Dog Breed!

It seems that once a person reaches a certain age, everyone around him decides that it is time to get a dog. Years ago, this pattern was more commonly associated with noting a growing number of friends getting married and having children. However, in this day and age of independence and two income families, getting a puppy seems to be the new way to say Hey, I am ready for a mature commitment.

The problem arising all too often is the lack of impulse control in these future dog-owners. Whether the desire for a pet is rooted in a deep love for animals, a need for companionship, or a symbol of the great maturation into adulthood, adopting or buying a puppy is a heady responsibility and should not be taken lightly. Specifically, the first decision a person makes about his future pet is arguably the most important- choosing the right breed or mix.

Walking into a pet store, a breeder’s home, or your local SPCA and simply choosing the cutest and cuddliest of the puppies available may have its immediate advantages. However, choosing a breed that is not right for you can also be tragic for both you and your newfound furry friend.

Dogs are not like children. Raising them and teaching them right from wrong is not always enough. They are animals and have instincts that they are going to follow, sometimes despite a great deal of training to do otherwise. Certain dogs have been bred for generations with characteristics that might not be appropriate in your new pet.

A lot of potential pet-owners are guilty of what I like to call the that-will-never-happen-to-me syndrome, swearing to anyone who will listen that they can care for a breed that is entirely too much for them. Usually these undesirable owner-pet relationships begin with the best of intentions. A woman who lives in a studio in the city really believes she can care properly for a Mastiff. A single father truly thinks that the small stature of a wire fox terrier makes it the best dog to play with his young children. Or, as aforementioned, people choose the adorable young boxer, blissfully ignorant to the amount of exercise these breeds need as they get older.

What dog owners who choose the wrong breed come to realize is that this animal is not a “bad dog,” he is just in the wrong situation. The problems occur when this realization happens after the Mastiff has destroyed his owner’s apartment, the terrier has frightened or nipped at a child, or the boxer has run away. All of these situations of sadness for the owners and hardship for the pet could be avoided with a little foresight.

While choosing the wrong breed can have dire consequences, choosing a breed that is compatible with your lifestyle and capabilities is extremely rewarding and can result in a loyal and lovable companion.

Whatever your situation, personality, or purpose for getting a dog, there is a breed that is most compatible with it. While educating yourself on the variety of dog breeds and their tendencies can help you make the right decision, choosing a breed is also not a guarantee that your dog will immediately behave. A puppy is still a puppy and needs proper training, grooming, and affection to grow into the kind of dog that you want as a companion. Choosing the right breed for you, however, will protect you from aggravating situations and will make the training process much more smooth for you both.