Which Dog Breed is Best for Me?
Having a dog, especially among older adults, is one of the best experiences. They are called man’s best friend for a reason. They provide happiness and companionship to those people who may feel isolated.
They can become a guide and they are also there to just do some things that will keep you occupied. No matter what your reason is for getting a dog, you should first be asking some questions in the decision-making stage.
What kind of dog should I get? This is one of the questions that people usually get. There are different breeds and types of dogs. The type and the breed determine the temperament and the personality of the dog. From there, you will also be able to determine the amount of effort and responsibility needed to care for them. To help you decide on the best dog breed you should get, here are some things you need to consider:
To Buy or Not to Buy
One of the things that you should be asking yourself is if you are willing to buy or just adopt. There are different ways on how you can get a puppy or dog that you will be taking care of. There are people who are selling their dogs. If you are going to buy, you have to make sure that you are going to check all the necessary papers that come with the pet. Another way you can get a pet is by adopting one. There is a process of adoption and you have to be familiar with what they are asking in your area. Visiting a home for dogs is the first thing you need to do.
Size of Dog Matters
It is important for you to know the size of the dog for different reasons. The responsibility of caring and the amount of care they need also depends on this.
You can choose from extra small dogs like Jack Russel Terrier; small ones like Pug or medium sized dogs like Border Collie. There are also large dogs like Labrador and Golden Retriever. For the extra large category, you can choose from German Shepherd, Standard Poodle and others. Giant breeds include Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane and others.
Determining the Best Dog Breed for You
There are different breeds that you can choose from especially if you are going to purchase. However, knowing the demands of certain breeds is also very important. Knowing the condition of your home and the weather are just a few of the factors you need to take note of. These outside factors will certainly have an effect on your dog. The way you will be caring for them is another thing to think about. If you are considering having a dog that will just sit around the corner indoors, you should not get a guard dog or those breeds that are used to going around and hunting.
Temperament and Personality
Your goal in getting a dog is also something that should not be underestimated in the selecting process. If you are looking for a dog that will guard your home,
German Shepherds or Rotweillers are perfect. If you want a breed that does not require you to go running around often, you can get a Shih Tzu or a bulldog. If you are looking into loyalty, Golden Retrievers are great.
The Energy Level of Dog Breed
Pet friendly senior living communities also encourage residents to get a pet. In this context, the energy level of the dog breed matters. If you just want a companion that will not require you to go to the park for a run, you can get Sheepdogs or Terriers. Labrador Retrievers and Australian Kelpies are those that require you to exercise.
Coat
There are some people with allergies that are related to the coat. This is one important factor that can help you determine which dog breed you will be getting.
There are some dog breeds that are shedding more than the others. If you want to maintain an allergy free home, you can choose from Terrier breed or a Poodle among others.
Grooming
Every dog has a grooming requirement. For those breeds with longer and thicker hair, they may need a maintaining hair groom. Aside from that, they also need enough food, water, exercise and other things that are necessary for their existence. Regular grooming will help in lessening the unnecessary conditions that will make them uncomfortable. This is why you also need to know the grooming requirements. This will help you determine if there will be help or assistance being offered near you.
Caring for a dog is always worth it. This kind of task will give you the feeling of being needed and it can also help increase your self-confidence. Most people who own a dog would attest to the importance of these pets in their lives as human beings. At the end of the day, there will always be someone who is excited to see you. Dogs are perfect companions; you will surely not regret sharing your life with one of these perfect creatures.