Before making a decision on which breed of dog to choose, do some research on each one of the breeds that you may be considering. This should include, where possible, talking with people who already own a dog of a breed you may choose. It might also include finding out how and why that breed was developed in the first place. This usually provides you with informative and beneficial information, to help you understand the likely nature and behavioural instincts of each of the breeds you are examining. Another source of expert advice is the local Vet.
Points to examine in your research could include:
● The size of the dog you want;
● Whether you have the physical strength to safely handle him in all situations that are likely to arise;
● Things such as the amount of space you have in your yard, and the layout and location of your house or unit or flat;
● Environmental factors, such as the location of your home. Stop to think about whether you live in a city, or a town, or in a rural setting;
● The amount of exercise you can give your dog;
● Your main purpose in wanting a dog in the first place;
● Other members of your household, such as young children, and elderly or infirm people, who will come into regular contact with your dog;
● Check to see whether the breed suffers from any serious predilections to inherited medical problems. A Vet would be a good source of expert advice on this matter.
The time and effort you put in at this time will be worthwhile in the long term, and you can be confident that you took every reasonable and responsible step to ensure a happy and rewarding partnership for many years to come.
We wish you every training success and years of enjoyment for both you and your dog.
