3 Tips for Finding the Perfect Dog

For a dog lover, shopping for a new pet is nothing less than exciting. However, as many dog lovers find out, the excitement can quickly become anxiety for both the owner and the dog. The dog may be adorable, playful, or simply appeal to your compassion, but none of these mean the dog is right for you. Another thing we can charge to human error is the fact that we may not be right for the dog.

Here are a few tips that will certainly save you and your potential K-9 companion a lot of unnecessary troubles:

1: UNDERSTAND THE BREED: Let's not everyone is fit for just any breed of dog. Research the breed of the dog your interested in. This will give you any characteristics or specific needs the dog is genetically predisposed to. For example, a person in a one bedroom apartment with little free time on their hands should not have a working dog, or a larger breed with high energy. These dogs need space to run and must be exercised regularly. If the owner does not have time to walk these dogs 2-3 times a day and burn the dogs energy it will show in the dogs behavior. Your pet will likely take its restlessness out on your house by chewing furniture and being destructive. The same goes for temperment. Dogs of a more aggressive/dominant nature require a stronger, more dominant, owner. Otherwise you will find yourself in a constant struggle for control.

2: MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Some dogs require more care than others. Knowing which, if any, physical ailments are common in your dogs breed will save you a lot of money, and possibly heartache. Also, it will help ensure a long healthy life for the dog. Vet bills can get quite expensive. It may be wise to make sure you can afford the proper care for your pet. Let's say you get a dog that has regular grooming requirements, and may be prone to hip problems. If you can not afford regular grooming and vet visits this may not be the breed for you regardless of how cute you think the dog is.

3: LET THE DOG CHOOSE YOU: It is common for people to pick out a puppy/dog. From my experience, it is best to let the dog choose you. When looking at puppies, or choosing a dog from shelter or animal rescue, our attention often goes to the dogs that show personality and seem to be selling themselves. However, as stated previously, this can land you and your new pet in an uncomfortable position. Be patient and let the dogs/puppies get a feel for you. This technique has always turned out the best bonds with dogs for me. I've trained and owned several dogs in a wide variety of breeds. When selecting a dog, if possible, stand freely among the dogs. Take your time and observe them carefully. At the same time they will surely be checking you out as well. Eventually, there will be a dog that stays close to you, or even will lie down next to you and stay there. From my personal experience, and many observations, this is how you find the dog that will be a great companion as well as pet.

Keeping in mind these three things when choosing your next dog will surely save you some major headaches. Remember, it's not about the dog understanding your needs. You must understand the dog, the dogs needs, and if the particular dog your interested in fits your needs. Many behavior issues in dogs usually start with an owner who doesn't understand his/her pet enough.