Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle
Two important considerations when choosing what type of dog you're going to get are: how much space you have indoors and in the garden; and how much time you want to spend exercising and caring for your dog.
Every breed of dog we see today was bred to do a specific job. From guarding to herding to retrieving to being a companion. Understanding the nature of your dog's breed will give you an insight into the things that will motivate your dog, and the types of problems you might encounter if you pick the wrong breed.
When people talk of dog behaviour problems, what they usually mean is that the dog is behaving like a dog (barking, chewing, jumping up) in a situation that's inappropriate. These behaviour problems often come about because the dog's mental and physical needs aren't being met. They're simply the wrong type of dog for that home.
When you've selected a few breeds that you like, do your research. There's a wealth of information on the internet, see our Links page for starters. It's also great to ask someone who owns a dog of your chosen breed - people are often very happy to talk about their dogs.
Every breed of dog we see today was bred to do a specific job. From guarding to herding to retrieving to being a companion. Understanding the nature of your dog's breed will give you an insight into the things that will motivate your dog, and the types of problems you might encounter if you pick the wrong breed.
When people talk of dog behaviour problems, what they usually mean is that the dog is behaving like a dog (barking, chewing, jumping up) in a situation that's inappropriate. These behaviour problems often come about because the dog's mental and physical needs aren't being met. They're simply the wrong type of dog for that home.
When you've selected a few breeds that you like, do your research. There's a wealth of information on the internet, see our Links page for starters. It's also great to ask someone who owns a dog of your chosen breed - people are often very happy to talk about their dogs.
Finding a reputable breeder
The first few weeks of a puppies life have a profound effect on it's personality when it grows up. The environment and amount of socialisation a puppy has before you bring it home can make the difference between a fearful anxious dog that could develop behaviour problems and a happy relaxed dog who can cope with living in a busy household.
To find a reputable breeder you could contact any breed clubs in your area, visit a breed stand at a dog show, and ask people who own nice breeds of your dog to put you in touch with their breeder.
When you go to visit a litter of pups:
A good breeder will care enough to ask you questions to ensure their puppy is going to the right home.
To find a reputable breeder you could contact any breed clubs in your area, visit a breed stand at a dog show, and ask people who own nice breeds of your dog to put you in touch with their breeder.
When you go to visit a litter of pups:
- Always see the puppy with it's litter mates and mother
- If your dog is going to live in your house, choose a puppy that's been brought up in a house rather than a yard or outdoor kennel
- Puppies should be friendly and inquisitive, not fearful
- Don't pick the shy puppy because you feel sorry for it
A good breeder will care enough to ask you questions to ensure their puppy is going to the right home.
