Choosing a Breed of Dog
The choice of a companion dog is a personal one. We all have different expectations. Complicate this with the variation in individual requirements of different types of dogs, the choice of a new dog requires much thought and consideration.
There is nothing worse than to buy a puppy, go through all the settling in process, only to find the dog does not suit you and so you are forced to re-home it. This can prove not only a heartbreak for you, but also for the poor puppy who is probably by now devoted to you and your family. Dogs in this situation often end up in Animal Welfare establishments for this sole reason. By taking into account all foreseeable possibilities when purchasing a dog, you should ensure you have chosen what will become your devoted lifetime companion.
This series of articles is designed to assist you in the most important decision of acquiring a dog in the first instance. This way the dog you choose should have predictable behaviour, predictable energy levels, a coat you can manage and also suit your needs and those of your family[1].
[1] Jane Harvey, "Choosing the Right Puppy" in Puppies Australia Annual (Michael Vink, Woolloongabba, Queensland), Vol 4 ISSN 14428059 Pages 46-49
This section directs your choice of a puppy to suit your particular lifestyle with consideration of your home security as far as keeping a dog is concerned, your own fitness level and ability to exercise your dog, your time constraints, your local situation and space available for the dog and the spare time you have for coat care.
A Dog for a Family with Children
When children are raised with a suitable companion dog in the family it should be a pleasurable experience for both the children and the dog. Furthermore, I believe a child which grows up without having an animal friend misses out on an essential lifetime experience. However, having said that there is always a caution.
The Pedigree is your Guarantee
A pedigree is an official certificate given by a recognised dog controlling body or Kennel Club listing usually five generations of the dog you are purchasing. The pedigree is not just a list of names. The names represent real dogs often known personally to the reputable breeders who planned to have them as ancestors of the puppy you are purchasing. This recording system or pedigree is a guarantee of how the puppy will grow up, not only in size and looks, but also in temperament.
Where to look for your future Companion Dog
There is lots of information in the public place about which pure breed to choose. Canine Controlling bodies ior the Kennel Club in your State or country are a good start. Municipal Council Libraries have excellent books on most breeds. You could attend a dog show and talk to owners and breeders. Dog Shows are held regularly in most cities and around the world. Additionally, we have basic information in this site