Dogs

Choosing the right dog generally means identifying the type of animal who matches your lifestyle and wants. A dog's size, exercise requirements, friendliness and  assertiveness should all figure into your decision.

If you feel you do not have the knowledge to make these decisions, talk to dog breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and other pet owners. Read as much as you can about the different types or breeds of dogs.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer after grooming.

Dog Consideration

In choosing the type of dog you want, you need to consider your specific needs and lifestyle, the space you have, and your activity level. The breed, age, and sex of the dog will also be important factors in your decision.

What characteristics should your new dog have?

The dog you select should be one that closely fits your lifestyle and what you perceive your needs to be.

Does Size Make a Difference?

People vary greatly in their ability to train and care for dogs. Their physical size, age, intelligence, financial worth, or occupation mean very little on which dog they should have.

Remember that larger breeds will cost more overall due to increase in food consumption, larger crates and beds needed, larger size toys, and increased cost for surgery and medicine.

Will Your Dog Have a Specific Purpose?

The first, and most important, question you must ask yourself is what purpose your new canine companion will hopefully serve in your life. Some may acquire the animal to satisfy very specific needs such as:

  • - As a guard to protect home through barking or aggressive appearance
  • - As a playmate for children
  • - As a partner in sports, hunting. etc.

In most homes, however, the dog's role will simply be that of companionship. That is to say, he will be a four-legged friend that you enjoy being with regardless of your activity.

What is Your Activity Level?

Your activity level dictates to a certain degree what type of a dog will best fit with you. A jogger can handle almost any breed providing the dog can keep up with him. A backpacker that hopes his four-legged friend can carry part of the weight needs a strong but not necessarily large counterpart.

How much Space Do You Have?

The amount of space available to the pet should also be considered as it relates to the activity level and overall size of the dog. A small, active dog is obviously easier to accommodate than a large one, but sometimes size will be found to be a moderator of behavior.

How much Grooming Are You Willing to Do?

Most dogs with longer hair coats need more care. Longhaired dogs are usually a disaster if they are outside in long grass, weeds, or brush. Their coats become matted and filled with everything they can snare. This may entail special grooming and frequent trimming, brushing, or baths.

Puppy Selection

In choosing a new puppy or dog, you should be careful to look for several things that indicate good health and temperament. A well bred, healthy puppies should look clean and be energetic.

Please check and ensure that:

  • Puppy coat should be clean and glossy without any red blotches, which may signal infection.
  • Eyes should be clear and wide open without any discharge. The puppy should not be rubbing or scratching at its eyes.
  • Stools should be firm; not watery or bloody diarrhea.
  • Puppy should not be coughing, vomiting or excessively licking the urinary tract opening.
  • Feet should be sturdy and pup shouldn't be limping.
  • Activity level should be energetic and eager to tackle the environment.
  • The puppy shouldn't be off in a corner by itself during the whole length of your visit.
  • Pups should not look skinny with their ribs pushing against their skin.
  • Every pup in the litter should eagerly greet you and not shy away.

Healthy Puppy

8 Signs of a Healthy Pup:

  • Eyes: They should be clear and shiny. There shouldn't be any cloudiness or discharge.
  • Ears: They should look and smell clean. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
  • Nose: It should be slightly moist to touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
  • Skin and coat: The puppy's coat should be soft and shinny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches of missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
  • Rear end: It should be free of debris and fecal matter.
  • Abdomen: You should be able to feel its ribs, but they shouldn't poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
  • Kennel and bedding areas: This should be a relatively tidy area.  Watch out for diarrhea or vomiting.
  • Behavior: A healthier puppy may be sleepy, but not lethargic. A healthy puppy will be playful at times, not isolated in a corner. You should see occasional bursts of energy and interaction with littermates. When it's mealtime, a healthy puppy will take an interest in its chow. 


Question? xdeho@streamyx.com