Choosing a Dog Breed: Which Breed of Dog is Right for You?

If you are thinking about getting a dog, it's smart to research the characteristics of different breeds of dogs to decide which one is right for you and your family. You'll want to find a dog that goes with your lifestyle, personality, and pocketbook.

Choosing the right breed is extremely important because a major cause of issues between dogs and owners revolves around unsuitability between them. For instance, a garden-lover probably would not be happy with a West Highland Terrier, which was developed in Scotland as a vermin hunter. He's born to tear up your garden!

So how do you select the right breed? Let's look at some major considerations:

What kind of experience is required?
Some breeds like Australian Shepherds are strong willed by nature and will run circles around you unless you establish strong leadership. An experienced dog owner would probably be best with them. On the other hand, the Smooth Collie and Bearded Collie are easier to train and are suitable for newbies.

How is the Breed with Kids?
If you have children or you expect your dog will be around them, it's important to get a dog that does well with kids. Most critically, you need to teach your children how to manage the dog properly. Even the most good-natured and tolerant breed of dog can bite if it is hurt or feels threatened or frightened.

Size
Size DOES matter, when it comes to picking the right dog breed. Do you have a house with a large yard, or an apartment or condo? Do you plan to bring your dog with you when you travel? Are you willing to clean up after a big dog? Do you want a dog to snuggle on the sofa with you?

Exercise Needs
With a few exceptions, nearly all breeds like brisk exercise. Do you have time to walk your dog regularly? Does the breed need vigorous daily exercise to prevent it from being overexcited? If you work long days you may be better off with a dog with lower exercise requirements.

Ease of Training
Most dogs will need training, both for sociability and their own safety. Very small dogs may get by with little more than potty training, but small dogs can also be barkers and you will want to train them out of excessive barking. Some breeds, such as Jack Russell Terriers, are strong-willed and can be difficult to train. This is something else to think about when narrowing down your breed.

Sociability
How do you want your dog behaving around strangers? Do you want a happy-go-lucky dog that is everyone's pal, or a more reserved dog that barks to alert you when strangers come to your front porch?

Grooming and Coat
Grooming requirements can run the gamut depending on breed and length of coat. Some have no-fuss coats and need occasional brushing or combing, some breeds require regular visits to the groomer, and others fall in between. Think about the time and money you are prepared to spend on brushing and combing your dog and trips to the groomer, if needed to keep your dog stylish.

Shedding
A truly non-shedding dog doesn't exist. However, there are breeds that shed less than others. Some breeds shed abundantly, particularly at specific times of the year. Consider possible allergies and the amount of vacuuming you are willing to do before settling on a breed.

Now that you have answered some key questions, research the traits of the breeds on your list to find the best fit for you. Check the recommended books below for profiles of breeds. Doing your research in advance will pay off in spades, and you will have a wonderful companion for years to come.

Recommended Books

Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds: Profiles of More than 150 Breeds This is an excellent, highly rated book that discusses each breed's physical and personality traits, suitability as a pet, information on each breed's vulnerability to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children, and more.

New Encyclopedia of the Dog Another great book that describes 450 different dog breeds including rare breeds and experimental breeds like the Labradoodle. Lots of photos.