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What kind of dog should I get?

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The family dog is as American as baseball and partisan politics. Most people had a favorite dog while growing up and many dogs are considered part of the family. For many people, however, choosing the right dog can be a bit confusing.

So, the question is “what kind of dog should I get?” There are literally thousands of dog breeds, each with its own, unique characteristics. The correct choice is definitely a matter of opinion, but the care, housing and exercise requirements of the dog should be a matter of the utmost importance.

Adopting a dog is like having a child, in that they are completely reliant on you for all of their needs, physically and emotionally. Before anyone should adopt a dog they should be well aware of what they’re getting themselves into. For one, a dog will live an average of 10-20 years, so one should be prepared to care for the animal for at least that long. Caring for a dog means more than just simple daily feedings. Proper shelter, veterinary care, training and companionship are all things that should be carefully considered.

Exercise is also an important reason to select a breed that will be compatible with your particular living situation. Working dogs, for instance, require a lot of exercise and attention; therefore, if you’re prone to being gone for long periods of time, or do not have enough property for the animal to get the required physical activity, these dogs would be a poor choice. There are many smaller, less active breeds that are much preferable for these situations.

When asking “what kind of dog should I get” it is important to consider your daily routine. For families with children, there are usually plenty of people around to socialize with the dog. In these cases dogs that require a great deal of interaction can make outstanding pets, provided they are correctly and consistently trained. However, for many single people and couples, there tends to be more down time for the dog, which often leads to destructive habits.

With so many different breeds, it is recommended that one does their homework before selecting. Different breeds have different temperaments which can be beneficial or disastrous if put into an incompatible situation. Some breeds make excellent guard dogs, but the same qualities that enhance this ability can also mean that the animal can be too aggressive for children or visitors. On the other hand, a dog that is bred to be docile will often allow strangers come and go as they please, without any protective tendencies.

Another thing to consider when asking “what kind of dog should I get” is how much time are you willing to spend with your pet? Again, owning a dog is like having a child. They require attention and companionship just as much as a human being. Failure to spend enough time with your dog can cause a variety of adverse reactions including anxiety, chewing, and excessive barking.

For every family, there is a perfect dog. The trick is to do some research ahead of time, and make sure you’re honest with yourself about your ability to care for the animal.

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