Deciding to adopt a pet into a family is an exciting decision. Pets make excellent companions and are easy to care for. There are many dog breeds out there, each with its own characteristics.
When choosing a dog breed, the main thing you should consider is your own lifestyle. Are you always in the office, do you spend a lot of time outdoors, do you have kids, have you ever owned a dog before, and so on.
Dogs bring a lot of responsibility into your life. They also depend on you for food, walks and companionship. Failing to meet their needs may force you to either give them up or euthanize them. Here is a list of some dog breeds that are suitable for different scenarios:
For First Time Owners
Your heart may have fallen in love with the Rottweiler your neighbor once owned, and you may consider getting one yourself. However, this breed and others like it may not be the best for first-time owners like you.
If you are thinking of getting a dog for the first time in your life, go for a breed that is easy to train, low-maintenance, obedient and friendly. Consider getting an adult dog that will spare you the messes that adorable puppies usually make. The best dogs for first-time owners include:
- Poodle: Being one of the most popular breeds, they are very trainable, easy-going and low maintenance.
- Pappilon: This dog breed is known for being alert and outgoing but friendly. They can be entertained both indoors and outdoors.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: They adapt to new environments quickly and are friendly with everyone. They are highly trainable and will benefit from an average amount of exercise.
For Families with Kids
A dog can make a great companion for your kid. Moreover, it has been proven that dogs can reduce the risk of developing allergies in kids. However, children tend to be rough when playing.
So, if you have young children, go for a dog breed that knows how to play nice. Size matters, so go for a medium-sized, strong, and sturdy dog. This will prevent your kids from falling on them, hurting them and getting bit.
It’s also advisable to get pups instead of adult dogs. Adult dogs may come with previous trauma and poor training. Just remember to teach your kids how to play with the dog safely. Also, playtime with the pups should be well supervised. Some of the best dogs for kids and families include:
- Labrador Retriever: This dog breed is the most popular one in the US. They are very loyal, affectionate, and great with strangers and kids.
- Boxer: Their most notable characteristic is their love for attention from children. They are patient and protective of kids, making them a great choice.
- Beagle: Their body size and low-maintenance fur coat are great for a family with kids.
For People Who Spend Most of Their Time Outdoors
Outdoor activities include going for long hikes, going to the beach, hunting in the woods, camping, swimming at the lake, or going on road trips.
If you live in the countryside or simply enjoy finding adventures outdoors, go for a dog breed that wants the same activities just as much. Also, choose a dog that is energetic, obedient and social.
You will also appreciate a ” smart ” dog that loves having something to do. Here are some dog breeds that will suit your outdoorsy lifestyle:
- Bedlington Whippet: These dogs love burrowing in the ground for little animals and make perfect hunting buddies.
- Golden Retriever: They are very intelligent and trainable. They enjoy good swims on the lake and hikes with their owners.
- Alaskan Malamute: They have been used as sledge dogs in the North Pole. They require regular exercise and good training.
For People Who Work from Home
If you work full-time from home and most of your days are spent at the home office, you can still get a pet dog.
You will not have the time to entertain or regularly walk your dog because of work responsibilities. Therefore, you are more suited for a dog that requires little exercise, attention, and stimulation.
There are dog breeds that are naturally laid back and ‘lazy.’ The little pups will not mind snuggling on your lap for almost the entire day. Here are some dog breeds that are perfect for this kind of lifestyle:
- Bullmastiffs: This dog breed is easily satisfied with a few short walks. They are not energetic, making them ideal snuggle-buddies.
- Greyhounds: They can spend the entire day sleeping on the couch. They also have a fur coat that is easy to maintain.
- Pugs: They are playful and fun-loving but also enjoy lazing around. They are sensitive to extreme temperatures making them ideal as apartment pets.
Finding the right dog for a pet doesn’t have to be complicated. Just do thorough research before settling for a particular breed.
Remember to train your dog well, do the daily walks as the bare minimum in terms of exercise and keep up with the visits to the veterinarian to ensure your dog is happy and healthy.
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