How to Choose the Perfect Dog Breed for Your Family's Lifestyle

What can you offer your future pet?

Choosing a breed based on appearance or childhood dreams might not always be the best fit. When selecting a dog, consider how much time you can devote to its needs. Some breeds, like kelpies and border collies, need more than two hours of daily exercise, while others are content with a short walk..

Exercise or relaxation?

Do you want a dog that’s ready to jog with you, or are you looking for a laid-back companion for leisurely strolls? Active breeds thrive on exercise, while a toy breed or older rescue dog may be perfect for quieter lifestyles.

Child-friendly considerations

For families with young children, certain breeds are known for being particularly patient and gentle, such as labradors, retrievers, and cavaliers.

Living environment and grooming

Apartment dwellers might prefer low-energy breeds, but if you’re up for grooming tasks, a poodle or shih tzu could be a wonderful choice.

Health needs and special care

Consider the breed’s health predispositions. Breeds like dachshunds may have spinal issues, and others, such as pugs, need extra skin care due to their facial folds. It’s always advisable to opt for pet health insurance to cover any health concerns that arise.

We recommend that all pet owners consider pet health insurance to help cover their pet for health problems or injuries during their lifetime.

Picking your best friend

Once you have determined what kind of environment and care you can offer to your prospective pet, you can then research individual breeds to see what kind of care they are likely to require. If you’re feeling very unsure, feel free to reach out to our helpful team for recommendations on potential breeds to consider.

Alternatively, if you are looking to obtain your pet from a rescue centre, you should be able to talk with the rescue centre staff about the kind of dog you are looking for, so they can make recommendations on potentially suitable candidates for you to meet.