How to choose a dog?

The decision to get a dog requires a serious and responsible approach. It can not be taken spontaneously, obeying a momentary inner impulse. Before performing any specific actions in this matter, it is necessary to carefully consider all the nuances associated with the selection and acquisition of a puppy, and soberly assess their own capabilities and strengths.

It is important to understand that this step places a burden of responsibility on a person for 10-15 years. What to consider when planning to get a dog, how to determine the breed and gender of the puppy, how to choose a healthy animal - the answers to these and other questions are further in the article.

If the decision to get a dog is finally made, the next step for the potential owner should be choosing the right breed. One of the main mistakes at this stage, which many inexperienced breeders make, is the choice of a “fashionable” breed in demand. Observations show that at certain times, there is a demand for dogs of a particular breed, most often due to the influence of the media industry.

It has been noticed that after the release of movie premieres with the participation of dogs of a certain breed in society, a fashionable trend arises. So, at one time puppies of St. Bernards (the film "Beethoven") began to be in demand, at another - Labradors ("Marley and I"). After the premiere of the film “White Captivity”, husky dogs began to enjoy dizzying popularity.

According to dog handlers, following fashion trends in choosing a dog breed usually leads to disastrous results. The newly-minted owner of a fashionable breed very quickly comes to the conclusion that the character and habits of the pet do not suit him and even annoy him. For this reason the priority aspect in choosing a breed should be a person’s personal preferences, his temperament, hobbies and lifestyle

The coincidence of the temperaments of the owner and his pet largely determines the emergence of a stable relationship between them and full understanding. It is logical that energetic and moving pets are suitable for people leading an active lifestyle, and those who prefer calm and measured life pace are phlegmatic and calm dogs.

When choosing a dog for a particular breed, one should take into account the peculiarities of its content and grooming requirements. So, long-haired dogs (Yorkshire terriers, lapdogs, Samoyeds, South Russian shepherds) in terms of care require increased attention. Without regular and thorough hair care, these animals quickly lose their presentable appearance, and in advanced cases they begin to suffer from skin diseases.

For some dog breeds, a specific feature such as increased salivation is characteristic. In particular, it is inherent in St. Bernards, Bloodhounds, Bordeaux and German Great Dane, Mastino-Neapolitan.

Shedding is another significant aspect in keeping a dog of a particular breed, requiring attention. Seasonal hair loss is characteristic of absolutely all animals, including shorthair. If a person is not ready to regularly take care of a dog and pay due attention to the condition of its coat, it is better to wait a while for the acquisition of a pet.

The purpose of acquiring a dog is a separate and very important criterion that must be considered when choosing a puppy of one or another breed. The potential owner must clearly understand the purpose of the acquisition of the animal. Some people see the future pet as a formidable guard, others as a reliable friend and an excellent companion, still others as a hunting assistant, and fourth as a standout winner at exhibitions and competitions.

In each case, certain qualities of the dog are brought to the forefront, which will affect not only the choice of the breed, but also the choice of the puppy.

Thus, when choosing a breed, it is important to consider:

• personal individual characteristics, lifestyle and rhythm of life, temperament and preferences;
• the purpose of the acquisition of the animal;
• the amount of free time that will be devoted to raising the dog and caring for it.

Special attention is required to contain conditions that a potential owner is able to provide the future pet. It is problematic to keep large or very active dogs in a small-sized city apartment, where they will not only create inconvenience, but also experience great discomfort themselves.

Dog handlers say that in apartment conditions not only indoor and decorative breeds of dogs feel good, but also some of their larger breeds. However, it should be borne in mind that if a miniature dog can be trained to cope with a diaper, then you will have to walk a large dog regularly and for a long time.

Choosing a dog to keep in the apartment, It is worthwhile to focus on the characteristics of the breed, suggesting not only the size and composition of the animal, but also its temperament, the ability to tolerate loneliness and get along with other pets. Potential owners with children should also pay attention to the predisposition of a particular breed of dog to friendly communication with the smallest family members.

Here is a short overview of the breeds popular for apartment housing.

The oldest breed of burrowing dogs, the ancestors of which, according to a number of sources, lived back in ancient Egypt. Initially, dogs of this breed were bred for hunting, but already since the time of the Russian Empire they began to start them mainly as family animals (companion dogs).

Depending on the variety (rabbit, miniature or standard), the weight of the dachshund can vary from 3.5 to 9 kilograms. According to the type of wool, it is customary to distinguish between smooth, long and stiff-haired dachshunds

A popular ornamental breed bred in China. The main purpose is a companion dog. The average weight of an adult animal varies from 6 to 8 kilograms. The height at the withers is about 30 centimeters.

Pugs are very friendly, mobile, loyal to their master. Possessing a cheerful and gentle character, these dogs easily find a common language with children and pets. The peculiarity of the animals of this breed is night snoring, due to the characteristic structure and shape of the muzzle.

The breed of shepherd dogs, whose homeland is Wales. The average weight of adult animals is 9-12 kilograms, the height at the withers is about 30 centimeters.

Welsh Corgi is characterized by a cheerful and playful disposition, they are very mobile, energetic, hardy. The friendly nature allows them to easily find a common language with children, get along with cats and other pets.

A popular ornamental breed, the origin of which is usually associated with the island of Malta. The main purpose is a companion dog.

Maltese - very elegant, graceful dogs with long white hair. The average weight of adult animals is about 2-3 kilograms, height at the withers - 20-25 centimeters.

These are very sociable, smart and moving animals, loving games and movement. They need a host leading an active lifestyle. The distinctive features of the Maltese character are good nature, tenderness, sociability. They easily find contact with children, willingly play on walks with other animals. However, outsiders Maltese are wary.

A popular breed of dog, originally bred as a hunting one. Currently dogs of this breed use as guides, rescuers and companions.

The average height at the withers in adult animals ranges from 55 to 58 centimeters, weight can reach 40 kilograms. The relatively large dimensions of the Labradors suggest the appropriate conditions of detention. A small and cramped city apartment to maintain this breed is not suitable.

A breed of very active and friendly dogs, bred in France. Depending on the growth variety, the height of adult animals can vary from 28 to 60 centimeters.

Animals of this breed are considered very smart and quick-witted. They quickly learn and memorize teams, easily learn new skills.With children, poodles easily find a common language. They are non-conflict and non-aggressive, faithful and faithful. Having a dog of this breed, the owner should consider that poodles require careful grooming, which without haircuts and combing can fall into tangles.

Most often, owners of private homes are important in the dog protective qualities. To protect the house, large, strong and independent animals are usually acquired, easily tolerating loneliness. To keep such pets durable enclosure with a warmed booth (if the dog is not planned to be kept in the house).

One of the oldest dog breeds, bred in the USSR. The average height of adults can be 75-80 centimeters, weight - 45-50 kilograms.

These are very large animals with thick hair. The plentiful coat of Caucasian shepherds allows them to easily endure the weather and cold, so that it is easy to keep dogs in aviaries with a warm booth.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are fearless and decisive. They are courageous, assertive and even aggressive. When purchasing such a dog, the owner must consider that in its upbringing, stiffness, confidence and literacy are important. Possessing excellent protective qualities, dogs of this breed show incredulity and often aggression towards strangers.

A popular breed of dog bred in Germany. The height of adults is 55-65 centimeters, weight can reach 40 kilograms.

These animals are characterized by steady psyche, endurance, ability to endure adverse weather conditions. They are easy to train, quickly learn new teams. With proper education, German shepherds become not only reliable guards, but also faithful companions and even nanny dogs.

Service breed of dogs bred in Germany. Impressive dimensions are characteristic of these animals. So, the average weight of adult dogs is about 45 kilograms, height - about 60-70 centimeters.

These are energetic, strong and loyal dogs that need proper education and competent socialization. In the absence of these factors, animals often grow aggressive.

A fairly ancient breed of dogs bred in Central Asia. The main purpose of the breed is protection and guard duty.

These dogs are fearless and decisive they lend themselves well to training and learning. They are characterized by phlegmatism and some inertness.

The sex of the puppy is one of the important aspects that should be considered when choosing a pet. It is generally accepted that puppy girls have a more friendly character, often show affection and tenderness to the owner. Boy puppies, in turn, are usually more active and curious.

Usually, bitches are chosen in the case when the owner is not confused by the prospect of further leaks and pregnancies of the animal. To avoid situations associated with these factors, you should resort to sterilization of the pet.

To choose a healthy puppy from the litter, you must carefully examine and examine all the candidates. A healthy animal should have a normal development and physique corresponding to its age, breed and other parameters. The coat should be clean, shiny, thick. Not allowed bald spots, knocked-up tundles.

Upon examination, attention should be paid to the puppy's skin condition. There should not be traces of scratching, bites, spots, strange formations on it. The eyes, ears and inguinal area should also be clean, without any signs of discharge. The look of a healthy animal is clear and meaningful.

Healthy puppies willingly play with each other, show interest in strangers and objects. Lethargy often indicates an animal's disease.

Having finally decided to purchase a dog of a certain breed, it is advisable to study as much as possible thematic information in advance. You should get acquainted with the breed standard, study the criteria for the correct choice of a pet.

Breeders with experience do not recommend purchasing a dog from dubious sellers, “on hand”, in the markets. It is safest and most reliable to apply for a puppy in a kennel or a specialized club.

The puppy's price also deserves special attention. A thoroughbred animal cannot be suspiciously cheap. Often, dishonest sellers who want to get rid of unhealthy and unpromising, and often even completely outbred puppies resort to this trick.

See how to choose a dog in the video below.