Choosing the Dog for You

Just like us, every dog is a unique individual with traits and characteristics. In saying that, you can get a fair idea of what you're in for by looking at different breeds and determining what's right for you and your household.

To determine which breed is best for you, you should consider a few factors like:

• Do you live an active lifestyle?
• Do you have a big yard?
• How often will your dog be home alone?
• Your level of experience with dogs
• Are you willing to accommodate the individual needs of the breed?

And once you've decided on a breed of puppy or older dog, consider your pet's health and consider microchipping and vaccinations.

How to Choose a Dog For My Home?

Like dogs, no two households are really the same. When looking at dog breeds, you should consider your living situation and if the breed is right for you.

Some breeds of dogs may want a big open garden to zoom around in and others are happy with hanging out inside most of the time. It's important not to assume by size though, some of the biggest dogs are the laziest, like greyhounds for instance.

If you've got a small yard or live in an apartment, you could consider breeds like:

• Cavalier King Charles spaniels
• Poodles and oodles
• Maltese
• Greyhounds

If you've got a bit more room for your dog to run around in, you could consider:

• German Shepherd
• Bull terrier
• Golden retriever
• Labrador retriever

Which dogs are happy to be left at home alone?

Your schedule is important when selecting the breed of dog for you. You should consider your work hours and if you're able to show your dog the love and attention it needs.

Some breeds are more independent than others and are happy with your nine to five work schedule. Others will need you or someone in your household to be home more often to avoid separation anxiety or depression.

If you've got a busy work schedule and your dog will be by itself often, you could consider:

• Poodles
• Shih Tzus
• Greyhounds
• Chihuahua

Which breeds of dogs are best for beginners?

Some dogs are going to take a lot of work and some are far more willing to learn and accommodate your needs.

New owners should consider the trainability of breeds and their willingness to cooperate. Some dogs that are often considered easy to train are:

• Labrador retrievers
• Poodles
• Cavalier King Charles spaniels

All owners, new and experienced should consider enrolling their dogs in behavioural training or puppy school to help their dogs adjust and socialise.

It's also a great way to make new friends for your puppy and yourself!

Contact us to find out more.

Are different dog breeds more prone to health risks than others?

Unfortunately, yes, some breeds are more prone to health risks than others due to their genetic predispositions and breeding history. Knowing which breeds these are and the specific conditions they'll need is an important step to making sure you and your dog are as happy as can be.

For example, pugs and Boston terriers are prone to breathing problems due to their short noses. Because of this, they can't cool themselves down like other breeds can and aren't suited to particularly hot climates or active lifestyles.

Other dogs may be prone to skin conditions and allergies, like West Highland terriers and American bulldogs.

For a more detailed idea on breeds and if they're suitable for you, you can contact us or continue reading through our news and blogs for more information and tips.

Summed Up:

While all dogs are amazing and it's impossible not to love them all, some just aren't the right fit for your home. You should consider your lifestyle and the environment it's going to live in before adopting a dog into your home.

If you have any questions or doubts, you should contact us at 07 5593 8395.

If you're looking for a puppy or you're new to dogs, talk to us about puppy school and our other services to help you and your new friend be the happiest you can be.