Dog Breeds - Links To Your Lifestyle

Posted on Nov 02, 2008 under small dogs |

Numerous dog breeds exist today. The last reported official recognized breeds were over 900. All dog breeds derive from mixed breeds and it is important to recognize the fact that a purebred can only be called so if it hasn’t bred with a different breed for a certain number of generations.

The major few dog breeds have evolved during early civilization, but most modern breeds are relatively new. Choosing a dog breed as a pet is not a straight forward process. Many times, unfortunately, the selection is wrongly made, resulting in the over population of dog centres. What are the main characteristics in choosing the right breed from all the dog breeds?

1. Choose a puppy suited to you and your circumstances, whether you live alone, or with other adults and children.
2. Are you a first-time dog owner or an experienced one?
3. Consider the needs of that particular breed; training, exercising, grooming, etc.
4. The space in your house allocated to the dog. Inside and/or outside living is an important factor.
5. The full size the dog is expected to grow to.
6. The amount of time you will be spending with the dog.
7. Watchdog or friendly dog
8. Allergy to dogs
9. Is the dog going to be left alone or not?

Not all dog breeds are appropriate to your lifestyle. Before determining the breeds you like, make sure the above requisites are considered and adhered to. Doing some research now is very important before you make your final decision.

Of all the factors one needs to consider in choosing a breed, the relationship one is ready to give to his dog is the most important of all. The main purpose of owning a dog could be different. Different dog breeds are ideal for different situations. A dog can be:

1. your family pet for companionship
2. specifically chosen for security
3. used for training, exhibitions and shows
4. utilized for sports, like for example, hunting

It is also ideal to make some good research in order to determine the characteristics of the dog breeds one is interested in. Talking to friends and relatives who had experience with dogs is also an important factor as there is nothing better than hands on experience for these decisions.

As usual, when dealing with pets, especially dogs, the final decision should be taken anonymously and with the help of all the members of the family. The dog breed selected should be one which is in harmony with the characteristics and lifestyle of everyone who is interacting and involved in taking care of the dog.

9 Responses to “Dog Breeds - Links To Your Lifestyle”

  1. Bombazine_Doll. Says:

    Would a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog better fit my lifestyle?
    Recently I decided that I wanted to bring a dog into my life, and from my research, I decided that I either wanted a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog. Before I go out and actually purchase a dog, I would like to hear the opinions of other dog owners of which dog I should get.

    I live in a medium sized apartment in the city. I own a cat, and I have company over on a weekly basis. I want an outgoing (but not excessively loud) dog that will get along with both humans and other animals. I will be able to walk the dog no more than twice a day, so a high energy dog would not be the best choice. Does anyone have any advice?

    Oh, and please don't post links of breed standards from AKC or any other site. Chances are that I have already read through it.

  2. futurevet56 Says:

    based on what you say, a boston terrier would be best for you. its the type of dog that will get along better with your cat. and those dogs love it when they get to meet new people. and bulldogs can be nice, but they will turn on you. thats just their nature. a terrier will stick by you and love you no matter what. and bulldogs HATE cats.
    References :
    i have a boston terrier and he loves my cat and loves people.

  3. a1kochieboy Says:

    None, dogs have bad relationships with cats, trust me my dog would not stop bothering my cat. :) By: Kochie
    References :

  4. bourbon_on_my_cornflakes Says:

    I have a Japanese Chin and he is awesome. Small dog with a short nose like a Boston or Frenchie, but lower energy. Very outgoing, love all people and dogs he meets. Likes to be in your lap but can entertain himself in or out of the crate. Doesn't bark (maybe once a month). Only needs a short walk twice a day. Gorgeous brownish-red and white, people mistake him for a cavalier spaniel.

    Chins are great dogs for your situation. I think if you check them out you will agree. Good luck!
    References :

  5. aloneathome Says:

    I own a Boston and they are great with other animals and easy to train.
    References :

  6. Ducky & Bam Says:

    Avoid all terriers as they have very high energy and can't expend the energy like a larger dog. I'd say of you are attracted to the breed go for the bulldog. But be aware of the health problems associated with these breeds.
    References :
    Currently a qual vet nurse, Studying to be a vet.

  7. Melissa M Says:

    I think the bull dog. My cousin had two and they were so cool. They had a rabbit they let run around and the dogs never paid it any mind. My daughter said my other cousins dog is a Boston terrier and oh my gosh it is so hyper. It barks loudly at any thing that moves. Maybe not the dog for an apartment.
    References :

  8. dog whisperer Says:

    a boston terrier has much more energy that a french bulldog. but i think a walk 2x's a day would be great. they are much more outgoing. any dog should be trained. especially is you have company regularly. a french bulldog isn't quite as smart, but very sweet. and i have heard of more health problems with them.
    as puppies, the boston terrier will most likely be bouncing off your walls. so training as early as 8 weeks is a must! and i think they are muck cuter. i would pick the boston if i had more time to devote. but if i had less time, i would go with the frenchie
    References :
    work with pets every day

  9. skachicah35 Says:

    From a purely health related standpoint, I would choose a Boston over a Frenchie. Bostons tend to have longer noses, and stouter bodies than Frenchies. Frenchies are prone to back issues and breathing issues. They both have similar personalities from what I have seen, and both would fit your lifestyle well.
    References :
    Vet Assistant

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