Breed for Your Dog

You have decided you need a dog. You should not just buy the latest fashion accessory, unless you are filthy rich and can pay someone to look after it when it is no longer fashionable. Even then, you should not have a dog. Get yourself a handbag or a pair of shoes instead.

If you are going to take on the responsibility of a dog, you need to be aware that all dogs have needs. All dogs need to be exercised and trained. They all need some form of grooming. All dogs need companionship.

You need to decide whether you have time to exercise, train, groom and play with your dog.

You need to decide the right breed of dog for you, based on what you can provide for the dog and what the dog can provide for you.

If you are older and frail, you need think about a breed that does not need a lot of exercise or grooming. A smaller companion breed would suit you best. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good breed for less active people.

If you have babies or young children, you need a low maintenance dog that will not get over-excited and bite. You will not have time for grooming the dog. You will probably want a breed like a Labrador or golden retriever. A smaller breed like a Pug or Maltese would be good too.

Remember that even the best dog will bite when provoked. All children should be supervised at all times with a dog. I have heard of a dog biting a child after getting a pencil embedded in its ear. Always supervise children and pets for everyone's safety.

If you have older children, a more active breed would be able to keep up with them. A border collie would be good as long as the children were very active. Collies are good for older children although they need more grooming. You cannot depend on children to groom their dog. You will need to supervise them.

Some breeds are more independent than others are and can be left in the backyard for most of the day and will not fret. They still need companionship and exercise. They need the stimulation of a walk and they need to please you. If you only want a guard dog, you would be better off buying a CC Camera security system and a burglar alarm.

Some breeds need constant companionship to be happy. They are best for older people who are home during the day. These dogs will fret without their master, so if you plan to be away often you should reconsider these breeds.

All dogs need to be trained to be well-mannered pets. Dogs that nip or bark excessively are not happy dogs. Dogs need a master and they will be happier if you give them one. Do not let your pet rule the household. He will become stressed and snappy if you do.

A dog is a great responsibility but he can also be a rewarding companion. Be your dog's best friend and train him well, care for him and understand his breed's special needs.