| Learn how to choose the perfect dog name for your | | | | characteristics do I want in my dog? - Think of words |
| puppy... | | | | like independent, energetic, submissive, affectionate, |
| If choosing dog is such a straight forward process, and | | | | protective, quiet, funny or sociable. Try to match them |
| it is, how come so many puppies find their way into | | | | to the characteristics of your family members. Your |
| adoption centres every year? Well one reason is that | | | | dog will fit in much better if you do. |
| people choose the wrong dog breed. | | | | Finding The Right Dog Breed |
| Don't let your puppy become a statistic. Make it your | | | | Once you have answered these questions it is time to |
| goal to choose a puppy suited to your family and | | | | go out and find the right dog breed for you. The |
| circumstances. Think about your previous experience | | | | internet is a great place to start. Just go to your |
| of owning a dog and the amount of time you have for | | | | favourite search engine and type in something like "dog |
| training, grooming and exercising. Look at your health | | | | breed information" or "dog breeds" and you will find |
| including possible allergies, your financial resources and | | | | some excellent sites giving detailed information about |
| the amount of space in your house and yard. Most of | | | | each breed. |
| all work out how much time you have for a dog. | | | | Note the characteristics of the different breeds. What |
| Of all the different factors in choosing a the right dog | | | | is best for your situation: large or small, male or female, |
| breed, among the most important is the relationship | | | | purebred or mix? Short coat or shaggy coat? A dog |
| you want with your dog. Some breeds by nature are | | | | needing lots or little exercise? A lot or little daily |
| rather aloof and elegant, others are independent and | | | | grooming? Think through your choices in detail and |
| energetic while others are dependent or submissive. If | | | | compare this information to your requirements and |
| you want to do specialized training, consider breeds | | | | make a short list. |
| known for courage and trainability. If you want an | | | | Next ask people you trust about the dog breeds you |
| affectionate pet, choose a breed that typically likes to | | | | are interested in. Ask friends, family members and |
| be close to its people. | | | | co-workers for suggestions of dog breeds they think |
| To ensure that your puppy fits in with your lifestyle | | | | would be good for you and your family. Ask them to |
| begin by asking yourself these questions:a) How much | | | | be honest about the good points and bad points of the |
| time can I spend with my dog, a social creature who | | | | breeds they suggest. Visit dog training schools and |
| craves companionship? - If your time is limited don't get | | | | breeders and ask about the dogs your think may be |
| a breed which can become dependent on their | | | | suitable. Follow up on and meet the breeds you feel |
| owners.b) How much exercise can I give my dog? - If | | | | are a good match. |
| you hate exercise, buy a small dog happy with a short | | | | Finally make every effort when choosing a puppy to |
| walk. If you like to walk the mountains all day long get | | | | make your final choice of a dog breed a family |
| a dog breed which likes a lot of exercise.c) How much | | | | decision. Your dog will be part of the family, and each |
| grooming can I do? - If you hate grooming, buy a | | | | member needs to feel a sense of ownership for the |
| short-haired dog.d) How much training can I give? - If | | | | dog and a willingness to help in its care. |
| you have limited time, choose a breed known for ease | | | | So there you have it a short guide to choosing a |
| of training.e) How much room do I have? - If you live in | | | | puppy that will fit into your family perfectly and bring |
| a small apartment don't get a large dog!f) What | | | | years of fun and happiness. |