Author: Allen Brown
If you’ve decided to adopt a dog, you’re now probably wondering what your next step should be. Before you rush to the shelter in excitement, there are some things you need to consider so that you can find the best dog for you and your family. It is easy to make a rushed decision while looking at all those cute, furry faces at the shelter, only to find out later that you’re not compatible with the dog you adopted. So, make sure you first consider all the factors that may affect your decision and then make a choice. Your choice should be based on the following factors, so ensure that you consider each of them.
1. Based On How Much Time You Have
The first question you have to ask yourself before you adopt a dog is how much time do you have daily? You need to consider your work schedule, social activities, and how much spare time you will have for your dog. If you follow a tight schedule and cannot take breaks to go home and check up on your dog, then it won’t be a good idea to get a puppy. Puppies require more love and attention than a grown dog. You’d also have to have extra time to house train a puppy. So, it’s a good idea to get a trained adult dog if you have a busy schedule.
2. Based On Your Energy Levels
All dogs need regular exercise or some other form of physical activity to stay healthy. You need to select your dog depending on your energy levels. If you’re someone who exercises a lot and generally stays fit, then you shouldn’t have a problem getting a high-energy dog. However, if there’s little to no exercise in your schedule, then you may need to reconsider the type of dog you’re getting. This factor is of high essence because if dogs don’t get the proper exercise, they may expel their pent-up energy in different shows of aggression, which you do not want. So make your choice accordingly. High-energy dog breeds usually include golden retrievers, German shepherds, labradors, and many others. In contrast, low-energy dog breeds include greyhounds and pugs. Keep in mind that a dog’s energy levels are not consequent to its size; a small dog can as easily be hyperactive as a large one.
3. Based On Your Family Members
Another important factor that you must consider is your family. If you have kids, you should pay extra attention to your decision when choosing a dog. Most dogs are considered to be family-friendly and can easily adapt to your kids’ behavior. However, some dog breeds can show aggressive behavior, which can be safe for adults but could lead to accidents if you have small children or babies. A good idea is to adopt a puppy if you have small children. This way, the puppy will grow side by side with your kids and get used to their behaviors.
4. Based On The Dog’s Breed
Every dog breed has a specific set of traits they are categorized by. When choosing a dog breed, looks shouldn’t be all that matters. You should consider the traits of each breed and then make your choice accordingly. There are many different dog breeds, so make sure you select the breed that goes the best with your lifestyle. For example, if you want a small dog with low maintenance, you should get a Manchester Terrier or a Lancashire Heeler. If you can afford regular grooming and exercise, get a Belgian sheepdog or an American Leopard Hound.
5. Based On The Dog’s Size
Make sure you select a dog with a size that matches your lifestyle. If you live in a two-room apartment, it’s probably not a good idea to get a large-sized dog. Dog sizes can range from as little as 12-pound to over 100-pound. Most small-sized dogs are relatively easier to take care of, and take up less space and eat less food. So, consider your budget and then decide on the dog size.
Choosing to adopt a dog is probably one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. They’re cute fluffy creatures that offer you constant companionship. However, you need to ensure that you select the most compatible dog. Otherwise, not only you but also your canine friend will have to face many problems later. Consider the different factors like your budget, how much time and care you can give your pet, and your lifestyle compatibility, then you will be certain to have a friend for life.