In the past, the decision to acquire a dog seemed to be contingent upon the type of job the dog was required to perform.
In essence, individual breeds have their own specific talents which would entice owners to purchase the animal.
For example, Shetland sheepdogs were commonly used to herd cows and sheep.
Other breeds were developed in order to hunt wild game.
It is arguable however, that the purpose of the modern day dog is not meant entirely for work, but also as a loyal companion and family pet.
As this subtle change has become more apparent, choosing a dog has become more complex.
It has become vital that you understand what to consider when choosing a dog prior to the actual adoption or purchase of the animal.
There are a number of things to consider when selecting a dog, most of which pertain to your current lifestyle.
It is wise to first make a list of some basic consideration regarding your environment and living situation: • Where do you live? • How big is your home? • Do you have a yard or an open area suitable for a dog to roam in? • Do you live alone? • How demanding is your job? • Can you afford the necessities a dog requires? • Why do I want a dog? Where you live is important in regards to your decision of purchasing a dog as well as the type of dog that should be purchased.
If you live in a more rural area the size of the dog may be less of a concern.
A larger dog would be able to roam the grounds and be able to get quality exercise on daily basis.
A dog such as a hound would also benefit from such a surrounding due to their instinct to hunt.
Suburban type areas where the animal has a yard are also good environments for a larger dog (if your home is of adequate size).
Apartment living however, may not be suitable for a larger breed of dog.
If an individual lives within the limitations of an apartment, then a medium or small dog breed that is relatively calm may be the best choice (given that your apartment complex allows animals).
Small dogs can be easier to control and maintain from a physical standpoint.
In this case, conducting research pertaining to the various types of small dogs is recommended.
Do you live alone? This question forces you to consider the dog's well being.
More specifically, if you do live alone, who will care for the dog when you are at work? If you do not live alone, then the other person or people must be taken into consideration (Will they watch the dog? Do the like dogs? Are they allergic to dogs?).
Questions such as these must be answered prior to adopting any type of dog breed.
In addition, if you have a family research should be conducted regarding the best dog breeds for children.
How demanding is your job? Regardless if you live alone or not, how demanding of a job you have definitely needs consideration when purchasing a dog.
Dogs require daily walks, grooming sessions, and need to be properly trained.
These activities require time, consistence, and patience.
Thus, it is necessary for a person to have time to dedicate to their dog.
Can you afford the necessities a dog requires? Owning a dog can be costly in a number of ways.
Quality dog food may not be cheap and will also become a part of your monthly expenses.
Moreover, dogs need collars, leashes, food and water dishes, toys, bones, and other necessities.
Dogs need to be taken to a vet for check ups and any serious condition that may occur as well.
Therefore, it is important to have an estimated calculation of how much a dog is going to cost you on a monthly basis.
Why do you want a dog? The reason you have decided to purchase or adopt a dog may be the most important.
In essence, you should be purchasing a dog for the right reasons.
Such reasons should include companionship, friendship, loyalty, and above all, to provide the dog with a happy and healthy life.
Taking ownership of a dog and then neglecting the animal is not acceptable.
In essence, individual breeds have their own specific talents which would entice owners to purchase the animal.
For example, Shetland sheepdogs were commonly used to herd cows and sheep.
Other breeds were developed in order to hunt wild game.
It is arguable however, that the purpose of the modern day dog is not meant entirely for work, but also as a loyal companion and family pet.
As this subtle change has become more apparent, choosing a dog has become more complex.
It has become vital that you understand what to consider when choosing a dog prior to the actual adoption or purchase of the animal.
There are a number of things to consider when selecting a dog, most of which pertain to your current lifestyle.
It is wise to first make a list of some basic consideration regarding your environment and living situation: • Where do you live? • How big is your home? • Do you have a yard or an open area suitable for a dog to roam in? • Do you live alone? • How demanding is your job? • Can you afford the necessities a dog requires? • Why do I want a dog? Where you live is important in regards to your decision of purchasing a dog as well as the type of dog that should be purchased.
If you live in a more rural area the size of the dog may be less of a concern.
A larger dog would be able to roam the grounds and be able to get quality exercise on daily basis.
A dog such as a hound would also benefit from such a surrounding due to their instinct to hunt.
Suburban type areas where the animal has a yard are also good environments for a larger dog (if your home is of adequate size).
Apartment living however, may not be suitable for a larger breed of dog.
If an individual lives within the limitations of an apartment, then a medium or small dog breed that is relatively calm may be the best choice (given that your apartment complex allows animals).
Small dogs can be easier to control and maintain from a physical standpoint.
In this case, conducting research pertaining to the various types of small dogs is recommended.
Do you live alone? This question forces you to consider the dog's well being.
More specifically, if you do live alone, who will care for the dog when you are at work? If you do not live alone, then the other person or people must be taken into consideration (Will they watch the dog? Do the like dogs? Are they allergic to dogs?).
Questions such as these must be answered prior to adopting any type of dog breed.
In addition, if you have a family research should be conducted regarding the best dog breeds for children.
How demanding is your job? Regardless if you live alone or not, how demanding of a job you have definitely needs consideration when purchasing a dog.
Dogs require daily walks, grooming sessions, and need to be properly trained.
These activities require time, consistence, and patience.
Thus, it is necessary for a person to have time to dedicate to their dog.
Can you afford the necessities a dog requires? Owning a dog can be costly in a number of ways.
Quality dog food may not be cheap and will also become a part of your monthly expenses.
Moreover, dogs need collars, leashes, food and water dishes, toys, bones, and other necessities.
Dogs need to be taken to a vet for check ups and any serious condition that may occur as well.
Therefore, it is important to have an estimated calculation of how much a dog is going to cost you on a monthly basis.
Why do you want a dog? The reason you have decided to purchase or adopt a dog may be the most important.
In essence, you should be purchasing a dog for the right reasons.
Such reasons should include companionship, friendship, loyalty, and above all, to provide the dog with a happy and healthy life.
Taking ownership of a dog and then neglecting the animal is not acceptable.
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