Dog/Choosing a dog

When it comes to choosing a dog, "the best" is a fit between the animal and the owner. Beyond that, most advice in choosing a dog comes down to opinion. No one would advise picking out a sick dog, for example, and yet there are those dogs who have been nursed back to health by dedicated owners who swear that the special bond they have with the animal came about for just that reason. Of course, the usual outcome of choosing a sick animal is expensive and time-consuming at best. At worst, the dog is not helped despite efforts and the experience proves dangerous to the new owner's physical and emotional health. This article aims to examine the pros and cons of each choice of companion dog in detail. Hunters and herders, and others who are interested in choosing a proper working dog are best off consulting their peers rather than following any of the guidelines for pet dogs.

Where do you best find a dog?

Shelters and Rescue Groups

There are animal shelters and rescue groups in many regions of the world that have dogs and puppies available for adoption. Many people who have taken in these animals have greatly benefited, and there may be some truth to the notion that the rescued dog appreciates its good fortune and makes the best of all pets. There are certain aspects of adopting from a shelter, however, that must be acknowledged as risks. Some shelters house dogs together in groups without first insuring that parasites and infectious diseases are not present. This can lead to adopting a dog or puppy who is in the early stages of an infestation or infection and not becoming aware of it until there is an obvious problem. Other shelters are very careful to avoid this, and the wise adopter checks on the policies carefully.

Socialization is another issue. Shelters (and breeders) who take pains to see that puppies are handled sufficiently to be socialized are the best places to find pups.

Want a dog that can join in the fun? Choose a puppy that has been well-socialized with litter mates!

Many of the dogs and puppies that are in a shelter are there because of deficiencies in their previous owner's commitment to pet care and through no fault of their own. However, some dogs abandoned by neglectful owners will pose challenges to the adoptor. For example, dogs who are adults but have not had boundaries of proper behavior imposed as they grew up can be very difficult to live with, particularly if they are large and active or have not been housebroken successfully. These dogs can make wonderful companions, but are best adopted by a person who is very experienced with dogs, and both able and willing to provide training. Additionally, dogs that are more difficult to train or that are more aggressive or rambunctious are more likely to be left at shelters than easy-going dogs. Many shelters workers and volunteers are skilled at evaluating dogs and can help steer the would-be adopter to an animal that is appropriate and likely to succeed in its new home.

Rescue groups that care for giant breeds (like Great Danes) and large, potentially aggressive dogs (like Rottweilers) often insist that obedience training is mandatory after any adoption. Rescue groups and breeders who are sophisticated about the larger and more aggressive dogs know that an owner who can take over the dominant role with such a dog is likely to do very well with them, but that an owner who gets shy, nervous, or giddy around a bounding dog weighing more than a hundred pounds is not a good choice for the dog. Placing such a dog with the wrong owner, from the point of view of the dog's welfare, is a poor decision. This is also true of breeds known for mischievousness and high energy. Placing a dog like a Jack Russell terrier, or a Border collie that thrives on exersize and the physical work of herding or ratting in a home where it will be confined indoors and spend long periods alone, for example, is generally a recipe for disaster. The same dog, in a different environment, might do well with the same owners.

Mixed breed dogs are in the majority at shelters, and offer all the same qualities as purebred dogs but one. In young mixed breed dogs and puppies (those that are still growing), the adult height and weight, and to some degree temperament, are not as predictable as in the purebred dog. Often, this is of no concern, but for people who live in a small apartment who have other constraints, adopting an adult mixed breed dog or a purebred puppy of a suitable breed is probably a better choice.

Pet Stores

Stores that sell puppies are usually a problematic source for a new dog. Unless the store has special arrangements with breeders, and is staffed by knowledgeable people who are trained in proper care, the other alternatives for finding a canine pet are considered more reliable.

What age is best?

Few of us can resist a puppy, but most of us are probably better off (on a practical level) with an older animal. Puppies require house breaking, and all go through a stage where chewing can be tremendously destructive. Managing puppies can be done by anyone with the time and inclination, and is certainly worth the effort - but usually involves the sacrifice of at least a couple of pairs of shoes! When a grown dog is available who is reliably housebroken, and who clearly responds to the new owner, an equally strong bond can develop between them without that kind of loss and aggravation.

What breed?

Most breed organizations list not only the most common attributes of the breed, but also common genetic problems and special characteristics that require special care.

Male or Female?

Children and Dogs