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Need Help Choosing A Dog? Take This "Dog Quest" Assessment . . .

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Making The Right Decision About Which Dog To Get

Of all the pets you might choose, dogs are among THE most popular. Is it because we can easily teach them some really neat tricks? Nah, it's way more than that . . . maybe it's because they love us unconditionally and make really good companions . . . joining us wherever we go, content to lie beside us when we're sick and rejoice with us when we're happy.

So, deciding to get a new dog is a BIG decision. The wrong choice can make life very difficult for you, your loved ones and just as importantly, the dog. After all, you don't want your dog to join the ever-increasing numbers that end up in shelters and dog pounds because they didn't "fit" with the family that adopted them.

Once you make the decision to add a dog to your household, you are faced with yet another important decision: what kind of dog do you get? Although dogs have several characteristics in common, there are striking differences in temperament, size and upkeep among the breeds. . . so doing your homework is essential.

And that's one of the reasons you're reading this, right?

Getting Some Perspective . . .

Before Choosing A Dog

To get some perspective on what it takes to properly care for a dog, you may want to read: How to Take Care of A Dog ... the RIGHT WAY!

Part 1: Questions To Ask Yourself Before Embarking On A Dog Quest

Before you begin the process of visiting breeders, shelters or dog pounds looking to find the right dog, you need to do a "self-assessment." You want to know the answers to some basic (but tough) questions about adding this dynamic creature to your home. Asking yourself these tough questions now will make things a whole lot easier for you later on.

So, here are the top five questions to ask yourself and those in your household.

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>>> WHY Do I Want A Dog?

Think about it . . . do you know just WHY you're considering adding a dog to your household? If it's because you think that having a dog will force you to walk more or it's the "IN" thing to do, you might want to re-think getting a pet. However, if your answer relates to "a love of dogs" or "companionship" or wanting to add to your family, you're more than likely on the right track.1 point

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>>> Is NOW The Right Time?

You may have very good intentions toward having a dog but is NOW the right time? For instance, if you've recently moved, had a baby or suffered a loss (a death, a divorce), NOW might not be the right time to add to your current pre-occupations and distractions.0 points

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>>> Do I Really Have The Time To Properly Care For A Dog?

Be brutally honest with yourself when considering how your new dog will be "properly cared for." In other words, who will take your dog for Vet visits? Who will walk your dog? Who is going to train, play with and care for your dog? If you travel frequently or have a career that requires long hours away from home, there is little time to build a healthy, stable relationship with your pet.0 points

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>>> Can I AFFORD The Expenses of Having A Dog?

Besides the initial costs of obtaining a dog (purchase or adoption fees, bedding, food, toys, collar, leash, etc.), there are other on-going expenses to consider (food, routine vet care, grooming, training, boarding, etc.) In addition, you need to be prepared to provide for medical expenses in the event of illness or accident. Are you in the position to handle these expenses both now and into the future?0 points

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>>> Am I COMMITTED For The Next 10 to 15 Years?

Let's face it, you should be prepared to have your dog for the life of the dog . . . however long that is. And that could be up to 15 years or more (depending on the breed and his/her health). Dogs are NOT disposable just because you experience "inconveniences" in life. To be sure, there are some extreme circumstances where people must give up their pets, or hand them off to others, but the ideal is to commit to your dog for the long haul.0 points

REVIEW: Do You Want A Dog For All The Right Reasons?

Did you have positive, affirming responses to all the previous questions? If not, you might want to rethink your decision. If you did, congratulations. You're ready to move on.

Part 2: Questions To Consider Before Choosing A Dog Breed

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>>> Do I Have Suitable Living Arrangements For A Dog?

Many people make the mistake of falling in love with a particluar pure or mixed breed before considering if they have the proper living arrangements. For instance, always wanting a St. Bernard, but living in a cramped apartment or house with a small backyard in a hot climate... you get the picture. Whatever your circumstance, be sure to consider carefully if you think it's conducive to having a dog. If it's not, what changes are required to make it more suitable for your new
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>>> Do I Have The Knowledge or Experience To Manage A Dog?

If you have never had a dog, or have little experience around dogs, it will work to your advantage to educate yourself. Knowing a little about discipline, and training can go a long way toward making your new dog feel comfortable and happy in your home.0 points

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>>> Am I Clear On The Advantages of An Adult Dog vs. A Puppy?

If you have lots of time and patience to spare, a puppy might be the right choice, but many people (particularly those with young children or who are very busy) find that an adult dog is a good choice too. Ask yourself, honestly, what you think will be best for you and your household. Be sure to get input from those in your household, too. There are many full-grown dogs (many of them pure-bred) who make excellent pets and who require much less time and attention than puppies.0 points

So . . . What Kind of Dog Should You Get?

Before you plunge head first into picking a particular dog, it helps to understand the various breeds. Knowing what they bring to the table in a variety of areas (temperament, looks, grooming requirements, activity level, etc.) is essential.

Too often people pick a dog breed based on what it looks like. Scenario: "Oh, look at that cute little pug face! He's adorable. I must have one." But the person making this statement may not know that Pugs carry with them a set of circumstances that make them high-maintenance dogs. Sure Pugs are cute but you have to be committed to the care they require.

Doing your research is critical and certainly this site is a helpful start. But don't stop here. Take advantage of the following resource: The Most Popular Dog Breeds in the America ...and For Good Reasons!

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  • Hope Jul 23, 2011 @ 10:38 am | delete
    Excellent lens! If more people would be this thoughtful in their choices, we'd have fewer dogs in shelters and rescues. Thank you!
  • thillukka Dec 7, 2009 @ 3:24 pm | delete
    All I know is I want a small breed dog....but right now, I definitely don't have the right living arrangements for even that! Once I'm able to move into a dog-friendly area, I will have to make a decision for sure.
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Help Fight Animal Cruelty . . .

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nDee

Far too many folks make hasty decisions when it comes to getting a dog. "Finding the right dog" is soooo important. "Choosing a dog breed" that's best... more »

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