 |
| Photo courtesy of the AKC |
You want to make sure the dog you choose is a good fit for your family otherwise that cute puppy that eventually grows up, may end up in the pound. Perish the thought! Here are some tips to help you make your choice of dogs a successful one for you and the dog.
 |
| Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Japanese Spitz |
Begin by researching different canine breeds. All puppies are cute and it doesn't take much to fall in love with one, however some breeds are easier to train than others as far as temperament and genetics. There is a wealth of education in this area at your fingertips online. Check out the American Kennel Club. This website shares a wealth of information about breed standards and what things to consider before adding a dog to your family. Talk to dog owners and even your local vet can be a great resource in helping you choose the right dog for your family.
(a) Exercise:
What amount of exercise will your pet require? Some breeds require a lot of exercise such as labs. Are you an active family? Can you commit to taking your pet on walks and playing fetch in the yard on a regular basis? Some breeds are more hyper than others. It really comes down to what you are willing to do to meet the needs of the dog and mesh that with your family's willingness to take time to include Fido in their lives.
 |
| Border Collie Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia |
 |
| Old English Sheepdog Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia |
Do you want a small dog or is a large dog better suited to your wants and needs? What size yard do you have? How about your home? Do you live in an apartment? For our family, we decided that if we had a dog, it would be loved and be a part of the family. That meant that it would live inside with us. This requires a lot of patience, and effort on your part. Are your children willing to help out? It is important that they are on board with this as well. Everyone can help in the training of your new puppy. If you stick with it and make this work, the rewards are amazing!
(c) Good With Children?
Some dogs are better with children than others. This is very important to research and consider this when choosing a dog. For example, herding dogs may try to herd your children. Canines are very smart and they pick up in a hurry whom is the most vulnerable in the family such as the youngest child. They may single that child out and at times snap at them if the child tries to pet them. Be very careful here to choose a dog that is good with children. Teach your child to respect the dog and make sure you watch your children around the dog. It takes time for dogs to adjust to their new family. You guessed it. Almost like having another child in the family!
(d) Dog Hair To Shed or Not To Shed:
Something you may not have thought about but some dogs shed and some dogs shed very little if at all. This can be a real problem if you don't like getting a handful of hair in your hands when you pet your dog. Or you have to vacuum extra to keep dog hair under control.
Grooming is a factor in taking care of your dog. Long haired dogs of course will require more maintenance.
You will need the proper tools to keep your dogs hair from matting if they have long hair like an Old English Sheepdog or a Tibetan Terrier. Will you do the grooming or will you pay to have your dog groomed on a regular basis? Something to think about when choosing the right dog for your family.
 |
| Tibetan Terrier Puppy Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia |
Our family had a Boxer/ German Shepherd mix and we had two Tibetan Terriers. Both types of dogs the pure breed or a mix can be a great family pet. We loved all three of our dogs. Once again check out the breed background and with a mix (if you know what breed it is) see what your dog will require because of its heritage.
(f) Puppy or Adult Dog:
What is your family's situation? Do you have children old enough to help with a new puppy? Do you have enough stamina and energy to live with a new puppy? Puppies take a lot of work. Can't stress that enough! If you decide that a puppy is the right way to go, find a responsible pet breeder. You can find recommendations for a good breeder online and again maybe your local vet or by asking around. Check your local newspaper to find dogs for sale in your area or arrange to have a puppy shipped to your local airport if you find a breeder that you really like outside your state.
If you are looking for an older dog already trained, don't overlook your local pet shelter. There are many dogs needing a loving home, due to no fault of their own. You will have help your new dog adjust to your home and family. He may test the boundaries, but you can teach an old dog new tricks so to speak if you spend enough time with him.
(g) Choosing a Male or Female:
Do
you want a boy or a girl? Once again check into the different
characteristics of both. It can vary breed to breed. Males tend to mark
their territory so you need to know how to handle this in your home if
the dog isn't neutered yet. Females go into heat and you need to know
when to have your puppy spayed. If you don't plan to breed your dog, it
is important to neuter or spay as it can affect the health of your pet
later on. It is always pays to be a responsible dog owner!
 |
| Irish Setter Photo Courtesy of Wikipeidia |
Puppies don't just grow up to be well mannered and potty trained. You have to make this happen and it takes a lot of time and work! They say it takes about two years before your puppy settles down. However it is time well spent!
Decide who will be the main caregiver and number one trainer? Will it be mom? One of your children? You? Here are some tips to help make your dog a well behaved dog!
Dog Obedience Class:
Check your community classes offered in your city. Sometimes obedience training classes are offered through your city. You could also check with local pet stores who may offer this service as well. If this is your first dog, it is well worth the money and time. You need to teach your pet that you are in charge right off the bat or he may try and run the show and that won't work!
If you plan to train and housebreak the puppy on your own, go for it! Have treats on hand to reward their sit and stay training or reward them with lots of attention and petting so they know you approve of their good behavior and their obedience to the commands you are teaching them. You might consider clicker training. The main key to success is to be prepared before the puppy arrives so have a plan in place!
Dog Books and Resources:
There are so many helpful books and online resources to help you train and housebreak your dog. Have a plan in place and some education before your bring that cute dog home because training starts day 1! Educate your children as well on what to do and what not to do.
Biting and Barking:
New puppies like to chew! They like to bite. Have plenty of chew toys available so when they are looking to chew on something like the corner of your couch you can redirect them to toys that are okay for them to nibble on. Have a few treats on hand to reward your puppy when it behaves well. Start now to teach them to limit their barking when you take them outside. Your neighbors will thank you and you will like your dog a lot more with less barking! Plenty of info out there to teach you how to train your dog to stop barking.
Finding a Vet:
Keeping your dog healthy is important. He will need shots and yearly checkups. So ask around. Visit with a few vets in your area until you find one that you like and are comfortable with.
 |
| Chow Chow Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia |
Adding a dog can be challenging, time consuming, and exhausting at times however on the flip side, you can teach your children responsibility by having them help with feeding the dog, grooming the dog, and exercising the dog! A pet can be therapeutic as well! A well trained dog can be a great listener to all your problems and complaints of the day and he will never tell a soul! He will still love you too! Dogs can be very forgiving and affectionate. If you work with your dog enough he will become a treasured companion!
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment