So many dog breeds to choose from… what’s the best fit for your family and lifestyle?!
Choosing the best dog breed for your family and lifestyle is important! If you are ready to take on the responsibility of a dog, it is only fair to you and the dog to do your homework before making this life changing decision. There are people with different lifestyles that are a better fit for certain breeds than others.
The cuteness of a puppy can fog your judgement, so be prepared!
Our newest addition… Piper!
Questions to ask yourself when deciding what the best dog breed is for you:
1. Are you highly active and want an outdoor partner to hike with, run with, among other activities conducive to having a puppy partner to do them with? OR Do you prefer to relax indoors catching up on the latest Netflix series?
2. How much space do you have? Do you live on property and have a big area for them to run around? OR Do you live downtown, in an apartment or high rise?
3. Do you or any of your family members have allergies to dogs requiring a hypoallergenic breed of dog, or you don’t want to deal with dog shedding? OR Are you not bothered by dog hair and are you open to any type of grooming requirements from short hair to long hair? The more hair the merrier!
4. Do you have children, and if so, how old are they? Some breeds are more kid friendly than others. OR are you child free and don’t plan on having any anytime in the near future, if ever?
5. Are you looking for a guard dog that is more of a one person dog? OR Are you looking for a dog that is more passive, loves people and other dogs, and you are comfortable taking them anywhere? If you have kids, will the dog tolerate them pulling on their ears and tails, climbing all over them, and not get snappy?
I couldn’t imagine a life without a dog, but it is a responsibility that can’t be taken lightly. These are just a few questions you’ll want to take into consideration when making your choice. There are plenty of GREAT resources out there to help guide you in this decision as well.
Some midday fun with Boomer
Some great resources to help you choose a dog breed
- The American Kennel Club’s “Dog Breed Selector” questionnaire is a great resource to help you through this big decision.
- If you’d like another resource to compare your results, check out Pedigree’s “Breed Match” questionnaire!
- Finally, why not see what the Animal Planet’s dog breed selector suggests for you?
Once you find out what that breed requires and what it’s like, then decide if you’re willing to meet that dog’s needs on a daily basis. Keep in mind, you’re committing to care for a living, breathing being who will depend on you his entire life! It’s really important that you’re honest with yourself as to how much time you want to spend on your new dog, otherwise it can be a recipe for disaster.
The bond with a dog is like no other, so choose a dog breed wisely!
Boomer and I in Lake Tahoe
If you know me, you know that I am a Labrador Retriever LOVER! This breed has always worked well with my lifestyle, and thankfully will be a great fit for the next chapter in life, starting a family with a new baby boy! My husband and I love the outdoors, are very active, and take our dogs everywhere, so being friendly and well tempered is critical. Labradors are known to be friendly, active and outgoing. We are fortunate enough to have flexible work schedules that allow us to enjoy hiking, swimming, spending time at the farm, and just being outdoors with our dogs regularly.
If you liked this post, I think you’ll love “Benefits of Dogs In The Workplace“. We are also dying to know… what is YOUR favorite dog breed? Let us know in the comments below so we can all make the best decision!
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