Every dog owner, regardless of the number of dogs they have or will own, has faced the challenge of finding a compatible dog breed. Some owners simply fall into it, others have been raised with a certain breed, and many have to really test the waters to figure out what breed best suits their personality and lifestyle. But how do you test the waters when most people can’t bring a dog home for a trial period? The answer isn’t easy, but there are a few things you should consider that will aid you in assessing your breed compatibility.
If you visit one of the many pet sites available, you’ll often find a helpful tool that generates a list of dogs ideal for you and your lifestyle. Unfortunately, these tools are pretty generalized and often don’t reflect the dog that would suit you best. In fact, I’ve tried dozens of these tools, and none have ever suggested the same breeds. They’ve never suggested the breed I own and have been compatible with for over 15 years.
Below are a few things to consider before choosing a breed:
It isn’t about looks:
Have you ever seen a dog and thought, “Wow, that is the breed for me, I mean, they are beautiful.” I know I have, especially when it comes to Siberian Huskies. While looks may be important for some owners, they shouldn’t be the main factor when determining breed compatibility. Sure, it’s great if you can look at your dog without cringing at its appearance, but looks aren’t everything. If you’re drawn to a breed because of its appearance, research it thoroughly. If you like what you find, that may be the perfect breed for you; if you don’t, then don’t purchase that breed. As much as I love Siberian Huskies, I know that I could never deal with many of their personality traits, especially their tendency to run away. So, I would never own one.
Popularity kills:
When it comes to dog breeds, popularity can be a disadvantage. Not because popular breeds aren’t great, but because more popular breeds often end up in shelters. This is usually due to improper breeding, or because owners don’t fully understand what they’re getting into. This becomes evident after a popular movie or TV show features a dog, and hundreds of people buy the dog only to realize it’s not the well-trained, cute pet they saw on screen. Never base your decision on a popular trend.
Exercise is key to compatibility:
Let’s face it: if you have a dog that requires a lot of exercise, it will affect how you interact with it. If you’re an energetic person who enjoys outdoor activities, a higher-energy dog may be a good match. However, if you prefer staying at home and relaxing, you might not enjoy the company of a dog that’s bursting with energy. When researching breeds, check the energy levels of the dog and choose one that aligns with your approach to exercise.
The 5-minute shower:
Every morning, my husband is in and out of the bathroom in about 10 minutes. I, on the other hand, take quite a bit longer (okay, a lot longer) to get ready. So, what does this have to do with dog breeds? Simple: if you prefer a dog that only requires 10 minutes of grooming, you won’t want a long-haired breed that needs extensive care. Before purchasing a puppy, think about your grooming preferences. Do you just want to wipe your dog down once a month, or are you okay with a more involved grooming routine? This decision will significantly influence your breed choice.
Life is full of style:
Believe it or not, your lifestyle plays a crucial role in assessing breed compatibility. If you’re home most of the time, you may prefer a breed that is more dependent. On the other hand, if you work long hours, you’ll want a breed that is more independent. Think about your lifestyle and research the breeds that interest you to see if they fit. Are they good with kids? Can they be left alone? Do they require a lot of care? Make sure to assess every aspect of your life to ensure the dog will fit in.
Timidness doesn’t always work:
Finally, let’s discuss the training aspect. If you’re new to dog ownership, you may want to choose a breed that isn’t as difficult to train or control. Some breeds are known for being stubborn and for following an alpha mentality. If you know that you won’t be able to assert control, it’s best to cross off certain breeds from your list.
Once you’ve assessed your breed compatibility, take the time to meet with breeders and current owners to get a firsthand look at the breed. They’ll be happy to share the good, the bad, and the ugly about their breed, and you’ll know whether you’re truly compatible and ready for life with a new dog.
