Choosing The Right Dog For Your Family
Finding the perfect dog for you and your family can be a challenging task, especially given the array of adorable dogs available. To assist you in making an informed decision, we’ve developed this guide to help you understand the crucial factors to consider when selecting the perfect companion for your lifestyle! However, it’s important to remember that every dog is different and these generalisations are based on average traits of each breed. Ultimately, it’s crucial to consider the specific characteristics and needs of each dog you encounter during your search for the perfect companion.
Size
One crucial aspect to initially contemplate is the living space available for your dog. Assess whether you have ample room for them to freely move about or if your space is more confined. This will significantly influence the choice of dog breed suitable for your home. Additionally, it’s important to consider the desired size of your furry companion. Are you inclined towards a small lap dog, such as a chihuahua or a larger breed that may occupy a considerable portion of your couch, such as a golden retriever?
Grooming & Shedding
Deliberating on your tolerance for dog hair within your household is essential. Certain breeds are prone to shedding more than others, necessitating meticulous grooming efforts that can be both time-consuming and costly. Moreover, it is worth noting that breeds that shed excessively may pose challenges for individuals with allergies.
Low-shedding breeds: Boxer, Bulldog, Dachshund, Jack Russell, Poodle, Labradoodle, Cavoodle, Maltese, Schnauzer, Greyhound
High-shedding breeds: Bernese Mountain Dog, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador, Husky, King Charles Cavalier
Time & Commitment
Determining the amount of time your dog will spend alone is crucial. If you work full-time and anticipate leaving your dog unattended for extended periods, it’s advisable to consider adopting a breed that is inherently independent and content with solitude. Additionally, it’s important to evaluate the time you can dedicate to training your dog. If your schedule is tight, opting for a dog that’s easily trainable or already well-trained, such as a senior dog, could be a sensible choice.
Age
The joy and charm of adding a puppy to your family is undeniable. However, it’s crucial to assess your ability to provide lifelong care and fulfill the responsibilities that come with dog ownership, including training and socialisation. Alternatively, adopting an older or senior dog, who is already well-trained, could be a worthwhile consideration.
Energy & Exercise Requirements
Dogs vary greatly in their exercise needs, with some breeds requiring minimal physical activity, like a brief stroll around the block. Other breeds possess substantial energy levels that demand daily exertion. It’s crucial to select a dog that aligns with your lifestyle, taking into account your own level of activity and the likelihood of engaging your dog in regular exercise.
Children
The presence of children in your family is an important consideration that significantly influences the choice of dog for your family. Certain dogs possess a naturally gentle and tolerant disposition, making them more suitable for households with children. Dogs that may be more suitable to families include golden retrievers, labradors, beagles, cavoodles and other ‘oodle’ variations, cavalier king charles spaniel, bulldog.
Expenses
When welcoming a dog into your family, it’s crucial to recognise that they come with associated costs throughout their lifetime. It’s essential to consider these expenses before adding a new furry member to your household. Larger dogs, for instance, tend to require a greater amount of food, resulting in higher food costs. Understanding the financial responsibilities involved is vital in ensuring you are prepared to provide for your new family member’s needs.
Do you have any other pets?
Compatibility with other pets in your household is a crucial aspect to consider, as certain dog breeds can exhibit strong territorial behaviour that may not harmonise well with other pets. If you have existing pets, it’s important to choose a dog breed that is known for being friendly and comfortable in the presence of other animals in their shared space.
