So now that we decided to
adopt
a dog the choices are many and making
the next step forward might bring up more questions: where
and how do we start and what should we go for? What breed should I
choose? Can I spare the time for grooming? What about training? There
are lots of such indecisions.
Take your time and consider the following factors which will help you
to reach your decision regarding the breed and age:
I) Space - Do you live in an apartment or a house? Do you want to keep
it in-house or outdoors?
- If you are limited by space go for a smaller breed.
II) How much of your time can you make available for
grooming? This will help you
to choose whether to take a
puppy which needs much more
attention and care or a
grownup. Also remember that you
have to spare time for
walking it at least
twice a day if it stays in door.
III) Budget - You have to consider your budget in a
few
aspects:
should I buy or pick one from a rescue
center?
Can I afford the
monthly cost?
Buying a pure breed means usually more money. Large ones mean
large expenditure on food. Also there's the vet whom we have to visit
regularly for vaccination and let's not forget that hairy dogs need
haircutting from time to time.
When coming to the final decision on breed, go to one of
these
breed directories or consult with
a vet. It will help you to make your choice. Choose the
kind of temperament that will suit you.
You have also to consider:
i) Make sure the breed you
choose fits into your climate. There are certain breeds
that need
cooler environment while others need warmer weather.
II) Furry animals usually suffer hair fall.
It means hair everywhere. Needs more
treatment as well as more often
cleaning your home.
III) Should we take a masculine or a female?
Non-neutered male may be more
active and aggressive, sterile female
(as
neutered males) generally quiet and
calm. Non sterile female has their
period when male "knock" on your door. Both
non-neutered males and
females "in heat" need special care as they tend to run
away from home.
Whatever decision you make remember that bringing in a dog means join
of additional member to you family.
