Deciding to add a puppy to your family is an exciting milestone in life. But it’s important to do your research and pick the right breed for your household. In this fact sheet, we’ll look at some of the biggest considerations to make when choosing a new puppy.
Before Choosing a Puppy
Caring for a dog requires a substantial and sustained investment of time and money. Dogs live for 10-13 years on average, and some can live considerably longer. Before making the decision to get a puppy, make sure you are committed to spending the time and money needed to care for them throughout their lifetime.
What to Consider When Choosing a Puppy
Ready to choose the perfect puppy? The following factors will help you choose the right breed of dog to suit your home and lifestyle.
Size
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s vital to choose a breed that’s the right size for your home. If you live in an apartment or a house with a small yard, a small or miniature breed of dog will adapt easily to your living space. Medium and large breeds are far better suited to spacious homes with sizeable yards.
Temperament
Understanding the temperaments of different breeds will help you choose a dog that’s right for your family. If you have children or other pets, it’s especially important to select a gentle and tolerant breed.
Examples of breeds known for their gentle nature include bulldogs, collies, and retrievers. However, all dogs are different, so it’s necessary to evaluate the temperament of a puppy before bringing them home.
Activity Level
Make sure to choose a puppy that fits your general activity level. High-energy breeds such as Yorkshire terriers, boxers, and poodles are ideal choices if you spend a lot of time outdoors. These breeds will usually need to be walked several times a day.
Medium-energy breeds include Boston terriers, cocker spaniels, and whippets. They are best suited to families that have an average level of activity. By comparison, dog breeds such as Cavalier King Charles spaniels, basset hounds, and Pekingese have relatively low energy levels. These breeds will need less exercise and can live happily in smaller spaces.
Grooming
Don’t forget to factor grooming into your decision when choosing a breed of puppy. Long-haired breeds require routine bathing and brushing to keep their coat in good condition.
Some breeds also shed a lot of hair, while others are less prone to shedding. Dogs with skin folds such as pugs and English mastiffs will require regular cleaning of their facial folds. If you don’t have time to groom your dog regularly, you may find the cost of professional grooming prohibitive.
Trainability
Although most dogs can learn basic commands, some breeds are more trainable than others. Breeds such as German shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman pinschers are an excellent choice if you want a highly trainable dog. Just remember that training any dog will require an investment of time and patience.
Climate
If you live in a hot or cold climate, choose a breed of dog that can tolerate extreme weather conditions. This is especially important if your pet will spend a lot of time outdoors.
Dogs with dense undercoats such as Alaskan malamutes and Newfoundlands will excel in cold climates. By comparison, short-haired breeds including Labrador retrievers and Chihuahuas can thrive in hot climates but are unsuited to cold weather.
Please keep in mind that brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds often have respiratory problems and can be intolerant to heat and intense exercise.
