Keys To Choosing A Dog Breed

Posted by Stanley Duray

It is not always a good idea to choose a dog based on how cute you think it is. Rather, there are many important things to consider before choosing a dog breed or before deciding what type of dog to get. Since a dog will inexorably become part of your family, you should be careful in selecting one because otherwise you may have a mismatch.

For families that have small children and are always on the go, a smaller dog may be more appropriate. Examples include Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Jack Russell Terriers. These dogs cannot reach high places like some other dog breeds can, so they may be good for children, who tend to leave things lying around. If a child leaves a ham sandwich on a table and walks away, a small dog cannot reach it while a large one probably can.

Smaller dogs may also be safer for children than other, larger dog breeds. These breeds have smaller jaws and teeth, so if they do bite it is likely to be only a minor wound. While training has a lot to do with the violence level of a dog, parents may be more comfortable having a smaller dog around their children than a larger one. Children also have a tendency to play rough with dogs, which may make the dogs act out in unusual ways.

Medium-sized dogs are a good middle-ground between small and large dogs, as they cannot reach very high-up places yet they also offer some degree of protection. They are also adorable. Medium breeds include Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and Corgis.

Families that want a dog that can be both a protector and a friend may prefer larger dogs. They can fit families that have a very organized home set up, as they will be less of a nuisance when it comes to “stealing” things from high places. Having a large dog is almost like having another human in the family because they are so large. These dogs include Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Labradors, and German Shepherds.

These suggestions may not apply to you. There are other considerations when it comes to dog breed – like trainability and amount of barking. Some breeds are naturally more trainable, and some breeds tend to bark more. The most important thing when it comes to finding a family dog is that it is a welcome addition into the family’s home.

Another important aspect when it comes to getting any dog breed is training. Large or small size is less important than level of training. A well-trained large dog will not jump on furniture or kitchen counters, and thus may be just as appropriate for busy families as smaller dogs are.

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