What's that breed?

What is in a dog breed, and how to find your match

By Sarah Elizabeth

As Angela mentioned in our last blog, potential dog owners should research the breed of dog they are thinking about getting. Does their temperament match yours? Do their needs match your lifestyle? Do you have time for a pup that needs a lot of attention, or is an older mature dog fit your life better? Or does your work-from-home set up have you feeling lonely, and you have all the time in the world to tackle a new pet in the family?

According to this survey by VetStreet, among the most challenging breeds for new dog owners you’ll find:

Akitas require 20-30 minute walks daily, shed a lot, and can be a challenge to train with a strong prey drive, however they are beautiful dogs.

Shar-pei’s, as you can imagine, have chronic skin and eye conditions due to their skin folds, and they can be territorial, causing them to be aggressive toward others ...but they are SO cute!

A Weimeraner is not a dog to be left alone; this high-energy breed has extreme separation anxiety and can be difficult to house train, they are better suited as an outdoor companion.

Dalmatians need a lot of entertainment, as they become destructive when they’re bored, so give them plenty to play with!

German Shepherds require an extensive amount of training, exercise, and dedication to stay on top of their smarts; be sure to give them the time and attention they need.

Saint Bernards - obviously - have a tendency to drool ON EVERYTHING, and eat socks or your favorite pair of shoes. They are indoor dogs, so make sure your space can accommodate this cuddly giant!

Maybe the quirks of these breeds are exactly what your family is looking for, so don’t rule them out!! With research and knowledge of your dog’s breed, habits, needs, and training routine, you can find a perfect match for your home!

Soooo...what type of dog SHOULD you get? This list by VetStreet may help you decide:

Golden Retriever is a top choice among families due to their gentle, loving nature and they are a playful yet loyal breed.

Papillon pups are perfect for active dog owners with their energy and intelligence.

Poodles have a knack for being one of the least “needy” breeds, and have a sensible aloof air about them.

Boston Terriers and Pugs love to be by your side, whether that’s hanging at home or out and about.

No matter what breed you choose, you’ll need to consider this next - what do I need to have on hand for this new dog?

According to this shopping list by PetsBest, you’ll want to have:

• Pet gates, if you need to restrict any areas of the house
• A bed, if your dog is past the chewing phase, or some comfortable blankets
• Food and water bowls; ceramic and metal are recommended
• Cleaning supplies, including urine and odor removing products (Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator is highly rated by pet owners)
• Collar or harness, tags, and a leash are a necessity to transport your new pup, and identify them should they get out
• A crate may be necessary to start crate training, but consider the size and material of the crate based on your dog’s needs
• Grooming supplies such as shampoo, toothbrush (but many dog owners opt for dental treats), nail clippers, and brushes
• Scoop and bags are going to be a necessity, whether you are in a home with a backyard or an apartment with neighborhood rules
• TOYS, toys, and toys are going to be your pup’s favorite thing when you aren’t around, so be sure to give them plenty to do

Follow our upcoming blogs to see more tips on preparing your home, training your dog, and choosing a veterinarian for your fur baby.

This post was written by Sarah of Cash & Clover.

Cash & Clover is a subscription box for dogs and their humans to enjoy together. Get a monthly box of gifts for everyone in the family, furry or otherwise, and give back with a donation. We provide matching donations from our customers to Mac’s Mission, a 501(c)(3) charity specializing in homeless "janky"dogs in crisis, neonatal puppies, and dogs with cleft palates.