How to Choose the Right Dog Breed: 8 Things to Consider

So you are thinking about getting a new furry friend to be your newest family member. However, you are not quite sure where to start with the research.

What is important when it comes to choosing the right dog breed? What things do you need to know before you get a dog? There is no right answer for what breed you should pick, but there are a few things to consider to ensure that it is the right choice for you.

If you want to learn more about how to choose the right dog breed, keep reading. These are eight things to consider when looking around.

  1. Size

When it comes to choosing a dog, you need to think about the size that you want. A major factor in this decision should be where you live and the type of house you have. If you have an apartment, you may want to consider getting a smaller dog. If you have a large house with a backyard, you may want to get a large dog!

If you want to stick with a smaller dog, Yorkies are a great option. You can look for Yorkies for sale near you to get started with your search! Learning more about them may help you narrow your options down.

Keep in mind that you may not only want to make the decision based on the size of your house. You have to also consider what you are willing to handle in terms of weight and size. If you feel that a large dog will be too much of a hassle, it may be best to stick with a medium or smaller dog.

  1. Your Schedule

Although you may not think of this as something to consider before you get a dog, you do need to consider your schedule. Although all dogs need attention, the age of the dog you get and the activity level that the dog needs should be considered.

If you have an extremely busy schedule, you may not want to get a puppy. They will need a lot more training, and if you are busy, you will not be able to accommodate that. Additionally, if you get a high-energy dog that needs multiple walks a day, are you going to be able to keep up with the schedule?

These are questions that you have to ask yourself before getting a dog. 

  1. Activity Level

You need to take a step back and figure out what type of lifestyle you live. Do you like a sedentary lifestyle where you stay inside, sitting at your desk most of the day? Or do you love going on walks, going outside, and doing daily exercise?

The answer to that question can help you figure out what type of bread is best for you. If you are more active, you may want to dog that is active, and vice versa.

  1. Age

When you think about getting a dog, you may automatically think about getting a puppy. However, that is not the only way to have a new furry friend in your family. You can easily get an older dog as well.

If you get a puppy, know that you’ll be spending a lot of time training a puppy. They also cause some ruckus when you first get them as they adopt and grow into themselves. Ensuring that you train them properly will reduce any misbehaviors depending on the breed. Looking into their typical puppy behavior is essential when choosing a breed.

Getting an older dog means that they’re already house-trained, their medical history is all there, and they are probably less active. If you want to get a dog without all of the initial work, going this route may be better.

  1. Grooming Care

You do not want to overlook your dog’s grooming care. Depending on their coat length, their grooming needs, how much they shed, and more, you can make a better decision about what type of dog you want. 

If you do not want any shedding, you need to go with a hypoallergenic dog typically bred with a poodle. If you do not want to have to deal with grooming very often, it may be best to go with a short-haired dog.

  1. Intelligence

Different dog breeds have different intelligence levels. Typically, their intelligence level has a lot to do with how easily they are able to be trained. Some dogs are intelligent in a way that they love training, tricks, and learning. However, some dogs use their intelligence in a different way and are very stubborn. 

For instance, the Great Pyrenees is an intelligent yet stubborn dog. The poodle is an intelligent and loyal dog.

  1. Know Your Needs

When it comes to choosing a dog breed, you also need to consider why you are getting a dog. This can help you narrow down the different breeds. 

For instance, if you want a dog for security and protection purposes, you may want to get a German shepherd. However, if you want a lapdog for extra cuddles at night, you may want to look at a Yorkie for sale.

  1. Consider Their Health

Different dog breeds have different average lifespans, health issues, and things of the like. Doing research to know more about what their health typically entails is important. This way, you are able to prepare for the type of dog breed that you are getting. 

You may also learn that you need to go with a different dog breed if there are health issues you do not think you can deal with.

shallow focus photography of a cavalier king charles spaniel

Choosing the Right Dog Breed

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the right dog breed. Not only do you need to know more about the activity level of the bread, your schedule, and what you can deal with, but you also need to know why you’re getting the dog and any health issues that may arise based on the breed.

Once you consider all of these factors, you will narrow down to the right breed for you. 

You can check out some other helpful tips about dogs on our website!

Krystal | Sunny Sweet Days
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