Consider the Personality (Temperament):
If you want a quiet, calm dog, then you shouldn't get
a terrier. Terriers can make wonderful pets, but
they tend to be vocal and they have their own opinions
about most things. That is just their nature and
they can't help it. If you want an extremely mild
mannered dog that requires little or no training,
then you shouldn't get a Collie just because you
adored Lassie when you were a child. In a nutshell,
it's not fair or reasonable to expect a dog
to be something that he's not!
Consider the Adult Dog (NOT the puppy!):
If you want a cuddly lap dog, you certainly shouldn't
get a Giant Schnauzer, Saint Bernard, or German Shepherd.
Even though all of these dogs are are small, adorable
and cuddly when they are puppies, they quickly grow
up to be active, spirited large dogs and they take
up the entire sofa by themselves! Read the breed
descriptions of all of the dogs you are considering
and pay special attention to the breed standard for
adult size.
Consider the Grooming:
If you don't have the time to spend brushing and trimming
your dog, or don't have the funds available to take
your dog to a professional groomer when needed, then
you shouldn't get a Lhasa Apso, or any other dog
with long hair or an undercoat. Lhasas, Shi Tzus,
Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers
are just a few of the breeds that require time and
energy (and money) on the owner's part to keep their
coats healthy and in good condition.
Consider the Exercise:
If you picture you and your dog hiking and biking,
then by all means you shouldn't get an English Bulldog
or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They have short
noses which can lead to breathing problems and they
can't tolerate heat or too much strenuous exercise.
A Beagle, Labrador Retriever, or German Shepherd
are just a few of the many breeds that would a better
choice.
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