There are a plethora of things to consider when deciding what kind of dog to get. Years ago I recall selecting a dog from the shelter based solely on the fact that I thought she was adorable. This could have proved to be a truly careless act! Lucky for me she turned out to be as sweet as she was cute, and things worked out. However, now knowing better, I realize there are many variables that should have been taken into consideration.
Human to Dog personality match-up
Dogs are like people with each having a unique personality all of their own. There are also certain traits found within breeds. When deciding on a dog you should make sure that the one you choose possesses all of the traits that you desire.
Imagine, if you are a couch potato, bringing home a new dog that requires tons of exercise! A dog that requires a lot of exercise but that does not get it, will develop bad behaviors. There would need to be a release of energy somewhere in there, and it could turn him into a dog that destroys things by chewing, garbage picking, or worse.
The good news is that there’s a human-to-dog match for everyone (even the couch potato)!
Things To Consider Before Getting A Dog
Below are things to consider, that are sure to guide you in making the best choice for both you, and your dog-to-be!:
- Do you rent or own a home? (Some rentals have dog weight limits, or don’t allow dogs at all. Also, taking into consideration that you will be sharing a wall with your neighbor, you won’t want a troublesome barker.)
- What is the size of your space? (A 120 lb dog may not fit nicely into a shoebox sized apartment.)
- Do you work long hours, or are you away from your home for long periods of time? (Some dogs do NOT do well with being left alone for long periods of time. Other dogs, so long as they can be let out within a reasonable stretch of time, will take it in stride. However, dog walkers and pet sitters can help in this situation as well.)
- Do you prefer a dog you can cuddle, or a dog with a more independent personality? (I am currently fostering a dog that follows me everywhere I go, and requires excessive amounts of attention. In contrast, there are many breeds that are known to have very aloof personalities.)
- Are you willing to take on a dog with behavioral issues? (Find out what they are, and consider whether or not you have the capability to help a dog in need. But only take on the challenge if you are willing to give it your all. Dogs are returned to shelters all the time for having issues more challenging than the owner had anticipated, so be sure! A dog that is returned to the shelter for behavioral issues will be harder to adopt out.)
- Do you want a puppy, or an adult dog? (Puppies are cute, but require loads of work! Remember, you’ll have to house train, deal with chewing and puppy biting, and possible late-night wake ups!)
- What is your age? (Not to be bleak, but you don’t want to outlive your pet. Senior pets can be a great option as they are beyond those active, hyper puppy years, and are most likely fully trained and housebroken.)
- Are you intent on a particular breed? (Be sure to research the breed to see if the general traits match up to what you are looking for. The temperament may be different than you expected.)
- How much time are you willing to give? (ALL dogs will require a significant amount of your time, but some more than others, with puppies requiring the most. But, other than that, consider if it is a dog that will require a lot of training, has a needy vs aloof personality, or has behavioral challenges. All of these things would require larger amounts of your time.)
- Do you have kids? (Some dogs are great with kids! Some are not. Be sure to check.)
- Are you ready to spend the extra money? (Dogs require food, toys, veterinarian care, etc., and it all adds up. In addition, be prepared for a potential “surprise” cost such as a medical emergency.)
- Are you getting a pet because your child said they would care for it? (I will stifle my laugh here, but usually the child starts out strong, then tires out after awhile. So, be prepared to deal with that! I already fell for that one with a hamster.)
- Are you okay with the restrictions on your free time? (If you plan a long day away from home, or a vacation, you’ll either need to bring your dog with you, or make arrangements for care.)
This list should have you well on your way to thought-provoking things to consider! It may be a long list, but well worth thinking about versus making an impulsive purchase you will regret. After all, it’s a purchase that will result in a new family member for a life-time! 🙂
Hi there,
Great article, I really enjoyed reading it!
I love dogs and I own two big dogs that I found in the street. Your list is absolutely helpful .I am luky to live in a big house that include a garden, which is great for my dogs. They can run and play around. But I do have problems with my neighbor because they make a lot of noice.
Maybe you have some suggestions for me?
Thank you
Hi Daniella,
Great to hear that you were able to provide such a great home for your dogs! You mention that there is an issue with the neighbor due to your dogs making noise, and I’m assuming you are referring to your dogs barking too much? There are many causes for excessive barking, and in order to stop it you would first need to pinpoint the cause, and work from there. I can tell you that a common cause of barking is boredom. Even though they have a great outdoor space in which to run, dogs also need to be walked, and be provided mental stimulation in order to prevent them from getting bored. Many times the barking stops as they are tired out and their needs are fulfilled. I’m not sure if perhaps that could be the issue with your dogs, but it is something you can try. I will be writing many more articles providing ideas for mental and physical stimulation in the coming weeks.
I like your post.
There definitely are more things to consider when it comes to getting a dog other then whether it’s cute. Different breeds have different needs, as you say.
I have a Shih Tzu named Candy. I got her as a puppy at 8 weeks old. She is 7 now and I wouldn’t trade her for a billion dollars. She’s priceless. I couldn’t ask for a better friend and companion.
I tend to like smaller dogs, as I like to have them inside and they don’t take up too much room on the couch or the bed. Shih Tzus like a lot of attention and tend to get extremely attached to their owners, which can make you feel very guilty anytime you have to go out and leave them alone.
To me she is the best dog in the world.
Thanks for posting this. I enjoyed reading it.
Hi Darren,
I had a dog named Candy when I was growing up, she was a schnauzer, and such a good dog. I’m glad to hear that your Shih Tzu Candy has worked out perfectly for you. Shih Tzu’s are a lovely breed……it’s always great to hear how much people adore their dogs!
I only ever have cats and sometimes I think about how they are not as cheerful as dogs so I’ve been thinking about getting one in the future.
I learnt a deal from this post, especially when you talk about whether you want a dog to cuddle or a more independent one or the fact that you don’t want to outlive your pet. While it’s sad for us to part with them, it got me thinking about how it may be worst for them to part with someone who is basically their world.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Anh,
I have cats as well and love ’em to death but, yes, they are very different than dogs for sure. Glad I could help you to sort through some thoughts, and should you decide to get a dog in the future certainly let me know if you have any questions!
I am so pleased I found this site, as we are still in the process of choosing a dog and Its been a bit of a headache explaining to my kid we cant just get “any” dog! all dogs have different needs so for long term doggy happiness its important to take them into consideration before deciding,! I think I’ll show this website to them so they can understand what I mean !
Great post,
Melissa
Glad to hear this helped Melissa! 🙂
Hello here. I often think about possibilities to get a dog because I like them a lot. However when I evaluate my resources such as time, money and amount of patience, I procrastinate. I know that I can not have dog now.
I try to fill this gap with volunteering at the local shelter. I know it is not the same as having own dog.
Sometimes I travel and I do not have place where to leave dog. I know that in the USA veterinarians cost plenty of money. Everything adds up and stops me for now.
Thanks for reasonable advice regarding choices to have or not to have dog.
All the best, Nemira.