Money will buy a pretty dog,

But it won’t buy the wage of his tail

– Josh Billings

Spring is the best time to have a new puppy, so now – during the winter – is the best time to look for a dog that would be right for you.

The dog has always been considered man’s best friend. But turning the saying around, the question becomes – are you the dog’s best friend? The consideration is why do you want to own a dog? Do you want a dog for companionship, protections, outdoor activities, or a combination of all these things?

A prospective dog owner has an obligation to choose the dog that is most likely to be compatible with his lifestyle. Buying a dog should never be an emotional decision. The characteristics of a breed should match his owner’s individual personality along with the limitation of the owner’s lifestyle.

If the dog is for a family with children, the age of the children must be considered since large dogs can be great with children, but many can accidentally knock over a small child in his excitement in greeting the family. Some small dogs may be too fragile for children and cannot be picked up, hugged or given rough handling. A sturdy, medium-sized dog might be suitable for children.

The dog’s size and breed is an important factor in exercise. All dogs – large and small – need exercise on a daily basis. Dogs cannot be let outside to run free in the neighborhood; otherwise, there will be many problems. Some dogs need less exercise than other breeds; the owner must decide how much activity they want to spend outside each day with their dog. If dogs, requiring extensive exercise, are left alone all day without adequate exercise, they can become depressed, lonely and bored … which can lead to destructive behavior.

Another factor you must consider is that certain breeds have a tendency to inherit medical problems such as hip dysplasia and problems with the eyes, ears and deafness. An important question also is who will train the puppy in housebreaking, leashing training, good manners, establishing rules, discipline and play time?

The first place to go to explore the world of dogs is the library. There you can become acquainted with all kinds of dogs. Dogs come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes and temperaments. Carefully selecting the best dog for you will ensure compatibility and a lasting relationship. A dog’s temperament is just as important as a dog’s physical characteristics since the temperament shapes the relationship between you and your dog.

Purebred dogs are divided into seven groups according to their abilities to perform a service to man. The following is a small introduction into the various breeds:

 

Sporting breeds (bird dogs) are intelligent and adaptable and can become good household pets, but are primarily outdoor animals and need lots of exercise.

Hound breeds (hunt animals) are bred to do a job and are happiest when working and while they can adjust to quiet confinement, they do like room to roam.

Working breeds are strong, active dogs that have been bred to work. They are alert and intelligent and will take advantage of situations where the owner is not a firm leader. They are happiest and healthiest when working.

Terrier breeds are aggressive by nature. Most terriers are high strung and require a great deal of activity. A lot of restless energy can lead to mischief.

Herding breeds (like German Shepherds and Collies) require training since the instinct to herd has never been entirely bred out of these dogs.

Toy breeds are bred and shaped to be companions and their courage and loyal devotion is unsurpassed. They are independents and extremely sensitive to the moods of their owners. Most are too small and fragile to be suitable for children.

Non-sporting breeds (such as the Poodle) are individualistic.

Choosing the right dog takes a great deal of thought, but take the time and you will be on your way to many years of a happy and rewarding companionship with your dog.