A Guide to Dog Breeds

Dogs are friendly, fun and great pals for everyone in the family. Having a dog adds a satisfying dimension to life. But if you’re considering getting a dog, you need to give careful thought to what kind of dog breed you’d like to have.

Make sure that the dog breed you choose is going to be compatible with your lifestyle. Here are some points to consider when choosing a dog:

• Temperament - Are you looking for a dog that’s very sweet and relaxed, or a dog that’s on the go and full of energy? Are you looking for a dog that will offer you a sense of security?
• Size – Consider carefully the size of your fully-grown dog. If you live in a small apartment, do you really want a Great Dane? Do you like the idea of having a tiny dog that you can put in your bike basket for rides to the park?
• Coat – Some dogs have very short hair and some are shaggy. Which do you prefer? All dogs shed, so don’t assume that because you’ve chosen a shorthair, you won’t find dog hair in your house and on you.

Finally, what is your reason for getting a dog? Are you looking for a faithful companion to keep you company? A dog for the kids to play with? Maybe a dog that will bark at people approaching your door, giving them pause to reconsider a break in?

You must know your reason for getting a dog in order to choose the right breed. Before getting a dog, make sure you do your homework – including personality traits and care that the dog will require.

A new dog in your home means training is on the horizon. While it might not be a lot of fun, all dogs need to be trained for their sake and yours. There are some simple methods that anyone can do that will help you train your new dog.

• Crate Training – Dogs don’t like to eliminate in their resting spot, and will do it elsewhere if given proper opportunity. So you can use a crate as your dog’s resting spot and when you release him from the crate, you can take him immediately outside for elimination. He will soon get the idea that the outdoors is the place to go.
• Clicker Training – If you want to teach your dog basic or even advanced behaviors, clicker training is very effective and eliminates the need for any kind of negative contact with the dog. Using a small device that makes clicking noises and tasty dog treats, your dogs will work at doing the behaviors that bring the sound of a click, followed by a treat. This is a great way to train for loose leash walking, sitting and not begging.

Your dog is part of your family and requires good health care in order to live a happy, healthy life. Here are some basic dog care tips that are important for all dogs and owners.

• Choose a veterinarian. Ask friends for referrals to a good vet, and make sure the vet is someone you like and trust. If you take your dog to a veterinarian group, try to get appointments with the same vet each time.
• Seriously consider spaying or neutering your dog. Unless you are planning to breed your dog, it is best to spay or neuter. This keeps the population of unwanted dogs down. It also eliminates the periods of heat in females, which can be quite disruptive, or the chance of your male dog wanting to visit every female in the neighborhood on a regular basis. Spaying and neutering also offers many health benefits to both female and male dogs.
• Practice good grooming. Your dog will require regular brushing (even short hairs need brushing) to keep her coat nice-looking and free of matting. Brushing your dog’s teeth promotes good dental health and better breath, and a bath now and then keeps Rover smelling better and free of pests like fleas.
• Walk your dog. Don’t just release your dog in your yard for a few minutes; take her for a brisk walk. It’s healthy for her and for you. Dogs need to get out and roam – it’s part of their nature. Play fetch, too. Your dog likes to have fun.

Different dog breeds require different levels of dog care – from possible vet visits to simple grooming and exercise habits. Make sure the dog breed you’re considering will match your lifestyle as well as your financial ability to care for it.