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How To Choose A Dog Breed

Dog lovers are always keen on experimenting with new breeds of dogs. But how far can you go in choosing a dog? I was not surprised when I came to know that there over 5000 breeds of dogs, out of which around 150 breeds have been registered with the American Kennel Club and more than 200 registered dog breeds in the UK. Choosing from such a huge variety could be a little tougher than youd thought. A dog breed has certain set characteristics which define the breed. If you take a close look at the characteristics of each breed you are interested in, you might get a list of more than 20 matches, that could be best suited for you. But how to choose one from those 20 breeds is the catch! Well, let me first tell you that, choosing one is easy if you look at the factors involved as part of dog care, your lifestyle, kind of house, your family and children, backyard accommodations and so on.

Factors Involved When Choosing a Dog

Lifestyle

Lifestyle involves questions like how much are you willing to spend on a dog while buying it, how much dog food can you afford per week and other costs involved in maintenance of a dog. Firstly, you should prepare your mind for keeping a large pet like a dog and the trouble involved in the process. Willingness and ability to spend the required time with your dog is also one of the most important factors of owning a dog. It will help you choose a breed based on the behavioral characteristics of a dog.

Type of Home

A dog is a large pet and requires a lot of space in the house. Some questions to ask yourself under this factor are, how big is your house, do you have an open-air/outdoor space in your house that can be used by a dog, if your house is an apartment, a condo or a bungalow and which floor does it occupy. It may answer your doubts about the size of the dog you want to choose. For example, if you live in an apartment, choose from a list of good apartment dogs.

Family and Children

A type of family and its attitude towards dogs will affect your dogs behavior. Points that should be remembered under this factor involves questions like, whether you have a small or a large family, are there any kids in the family and so on. A family with kids should always choose from the best dog breeds. Another important factor in choosing a dog breed is, your purpose behind it. If the purpose behind owning a dog is protection, you should opt for larger and sharper breeds of dogs while if the purpose is to keep one out of your fondness for dogs, you should go for a friendly, low-maintenance dog.

Important Questions To Ask Yourself Before Getting a Dog

Is affordability an issue in buying a dog?
If you think your pockets are not ready for buying a new breed of dog, just listen to them! Because, costs involved in dog are beyond its buying costs. These costs involve the maintenance, the dog food, dog shelter, vaccinations, medical expenses and secondary costs like dog belts, chains, clothes and toys, nevertheless.

How much time can you give to your dog in a day?
Now this ones really important. Choosing a dog involves evaluating factors like dogs personality, size, dog care etc. Raising a large pet like dog is similar to raising a child. The adult dog behavior will depend on its upbringing. Sometimes, the upbringing is so well, that the dog turns out to be as attached as a family member. If you do not give enough time to your dog, he will not be trained enough to live with your family. Besides, a neglected dog will turn out to be very lazy and will become a couch potato. Less time means less activity and that develops lethargy in dogs.

Will you be able to manage a dog that sheds heavily?
If you are in a job that doesnt let you take care of your own self, you may not be able to handle a dog that sheds too much. Some dogs like golden retriever and Dalmatians are shedding factories! A dog breed that sheds less is always more desirable than the other dog breeds. Opt for non-shedding dogs.

Is there a veterinary doctors clinic in close proximity?
Most people ignore this factor before adopting a dog. Would you ever shift to a new place that has no shops or clinics around it? Well that would apply to your dog too. Make sure, a veterinary doctors clinic is around you, somewhere in the close proximity of your house, in case of any medical emergency for the dog. A puppy requires to take several vaccinations frequently. A veterinary clinic around would be ensuring the safety and the dog health.

What dog size are you looking for?
Size of dog plays the most significant part of choosing a dog breed. It is a myth that small-sized dogs need small space and large-sized dogs need a larger space to breed. Your dog behavior and habits will entirely depend on its overall upbringing. You should not forget that all the large dogs look small when they are puppies! So, dont fall for their puppy-size! There are some breeds of small dogs that remain tiny even when they mature. A large dog is recommended only if you are experienced in raising and training different breeds and sizes of dogs. A large dog will necessarily require relatively larger space, larger quantity of food, maintenance and a huge responsibility. Large dogs may also require professional dog training.

What is your purpose of adopting a dog?
There is no point in buying a dog without having your purpose solved behind adopting it. Your purpose behind it could be for protection, out of fondness for dogs, for entertainment and even as a toy for your kids. You need to first examine your purpose of adopting a dog and the responsibilities involved in its process. If you want a dog just for entertainment, out of fondness or as toys, you may opt for designer dog breeds. If you have a huge mansion-like house, and need a dog for protection, guard dogs may be for you. You might as well have a busy schedule and need a non-shedding yet a guard dog.

Remember that a dog is your family member and you should treat him like one. Dogs have emotions, along with impulsive internal structures that are similar to those in human beings, which is what makes us understand their behavior. So, ask yourself these questions, examine the answers, check the list of suitable dog breeds and start shortlisting!

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How to Choose the Right Dog

Youve always wanted a pet dog and you can almost see your new pet - chasing after Frisbees in parks, running like a mad creature in the sun, learning new tricks that make you laugh, throwing up outside your bathroom at 3 in the morning, chewing your rugs and carpets, shedding on every possible thing - thinking of all this, does getting a dog still sound like a good idea to you? If yes, then congratulations you have come to just the right place.

Here is what every dog-owners (or pet-owners) mantra should be: A dog is a living, loving, caring, hurting animal. If you are looking for a dog because you think that it will look great in your new car, then think again buddy - your new dog is just about to turn you life into a living nightmare! From tearing up that expensive leather upholstery to vomiting on your designer shoes - your pet dog is going to transform you from being a bachelor to someone who feels, acts and even thinks like a father of three! Remember, you are not buying yourself a watch. Your dog will be like your child - your child that cant speak. So, repeat this mantra a couple of times to prepare yourself. If you are a working person and work all day for six days a week, then you are going to end up with a unhappy and lonely pup on your hands. It isnt your puppies fault.

Personality Match

Choosing a dog is akin to the zen method of self-discovery. Until and unless you really know yourself, you are never going to be able to choose the right dog. For instance, an athlete would quite obviously prefer an active pup. A lazy person would probably go for a dog that doesnt need a lot of exercising. A touchy-feely, sentimental person would love to have a friendly dog. A stuck-up person would prefer to buy a dog that doesnt shed or bark too much. Choosing a dog is very similar to choosing a friend or a mate - you always go for a dog that suits you personality, or compliments it.

How Big is Your Place

Now that you have figured out what breed suits your personality, its time to see if your dog will fit in with your living space. Before you go ahead and buy yourself a dog, first take a look at your living space. Ask yourself questions like - do you have enough room for a dog? Is your yard carefully fenced? Do you want a big dog or a teeny weeny little terrier? No matter how well a certain breed matches your personality, it is very important to make sure your living space matches it as well. It would be absolutely cruel to keep a big dog like a great dane cooped up in a tiny apartment all day long.

Next, ask yourself whether your schedule is suitable for a dog. Are you at home for a reasonable period of time during the day? How many times will you be able to take your dog for a walk? Remember that like humans, dogs also get lonely and if you are not going to be at home for days on end, your dog is going to get depressed. Whats more, you might have to anticipate making changes in your lifestyle in the future. Are you planning on having children? Do you already have children? You dont want to get into an ugly situation where your child doesnt get along with your dog. Make sure you do your homework beforehand and talk to vets, friends, trainers and dog breeders to find out what dog will suit you the best.

Proper Care and Maintenance Affordability

Of course a dog isnt going to make you bankrupt, but owning one is indeed a big investment. Over a period of time, you can expect to spend as much money on your dog as you would on a decent car. But honestly, what would you rather own - a Lexus or extreme love?

The dog itself isnt expensive, but it is the taking care of the dog part that is more expensive. From dog food to veterinary expenses to other things like check-ups, spaying or neutering, flea and tick control, dental care, and so on, your dog is going to cost you a considerable amount of money. There are many places to go to if you are looking for a dog - from the animal shelter to a pet store and even breeders - your pet can be found just about anywhere!

Now that you know why you want a dog, you need to know what you are getting into beforehand. This article has focused on the unglamorous side of taking care of a dog and what you need to know before you adopt/rescue a dog/puppy. If you take good care of your dog and treat it the right way, you will be showered with love and affection. And, who doesnt want love, affection and companionship?

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How to Choose a Correct Dog Bowl

If you are someone who feels that the dog bowl does not make a difference, as long as you are feeding your dog the right food, then let me tell you, feeding your dog can be much easier if you have the right bowl. The bowl that you choose should be with respect to the size, food intake, age, and the nature of your dog.

Types of Dog Bowls

Before I tell you how to choose a dog bowl, you should know the different types of bowls available in the market. I have mentioned the popular ones:

• Plastic Bowls: Its cheap and durable.
• Ceramic Bowls: It is available in a variety of styles.
• Stainless Steel Bowls: It is the best in terms of durability and maintenance.
• Automatic Bowls: Food is automatically filled in the bowl when it is empty.
• Travel bowls: They are inexpensive and portable.
• Elevated Bowls: These bowls are raised above the floor.
• Slow Feeding Bowl: They have projections in them.

Choosing a Dog Bowl

Here I have considered a few cases, and suggested appropriate dog bowls with respect to the cases.

If You Have a Puppy
Puppies are mischievous, they are obviously going to play with their bowl. So, you need a durable bowl. The bowl should be small, and should not be able to skid easily. I recommend you to go for plastic, ceramic or stainless steel bowls. You should replace the bowl once your puppy grows.

Note: Plastic bowls might get damaged, if your dog has the habit of chewing his bowl.

If Your Dog Overeats
Overeating can lead to problems in digestion, and may also make your dog obese. If your dog has a problem of overeating, do not go for automatic dog bowls. Get your dog a slow feeding bowl, he wont be able to hog. Slow feeding bowls also prevent choking, as the dog takes small morsels at a time.

If Your Dog is Old
Aged dogs often experience pain in their joints, so it is necessary that they maintain a proper posture. Having food from a normal bowl, strains the joints of your dog, it especially causes problems in his neck. Such a posture may also affect his digestive system. I recommend you to get an elevated bowl if you have an old dog.

If You Are Busy
If you are someone who cannot find enough time to feed your dog personally, then automatic bowls are the best choice for you. Automatic bowls will ensure that your dog stays full and hydrated in your absence. I always prefer feeding dogs personally, do try to take out some time from your busy schedule to feed your dog.

If You Travel With Your Dog
If you have the habit of traveling with your dog, then you need a bowl which is portable, and the best option for you will be a travel bowl. They can store enough food for your dog, and are convenient to use.

If You Prefer Style
If you want your dog bowl to be stylish, then you should surely go for ceramic bowls. They are available in great designs. There are also a wide range of plastic bowls, you can also opt for them (but nothing beats ceramic bowls in terms of style).

Once you have the correct bowl, you have to ensure that it is always clean. An unclean bowl will surely make your dog susceptible to health problems. If the bowl gets damaged, you should replace it, rather than repair it. If you feel that your dog does not like his bowl, then you should get him a new one, he will enjoy his dog food more, if he has the right bowl.

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