How to choose a dog

To each his own dogIf we need company but are lazy, it's a waste of energy to look for a sporting dog, perhaps a hunting dog, that requires extensive training and exercise every day, even more than once. If we have children, the house should have docile, affectionate, and playful dogs. After all, we're choosing a lifelong companion, so it's right to be careful. How do you choose a dog? There's no one size or breed that we can absolutely consider better than others. Rather, to show your respect for your pet from the start, It is best to base your choices first and foremost on the available space, your lifestyle, the type of community (family or single) the dog will be part of. And last but not least, your personal needs.

Index of topics

The 10 golden rules for choosing a dog

When you decide to bring a small four-legged friend into your home, the first thing to do is seriously consider the option of adopting one of the many dogs that have been unjustly abandoned. They are sweet and need affection and deserve not to live a life inside a kennel.Starting from this assumption, the universe in which to select the choice is very vast, if we consider that There are approximately 400 breedsFrom sheepdogs to dachshunds, from Labradors to hounds. And breed, combined with other factors, matters. For example, small dogs thrive in child-free environments and are ideal for a single person. Terriers, on the other hand, like Labradors, are very patient with children and make wonderful playmates. Furthermore, working dogs need to keep their bodies and minds constantly in training, otherwise they become sad. If you choose them, you must be able to guarantee this form of care. But let's take a closer look. The 10 golden rules for choosing a dog.

First of all, remember that choosing a dog is a long-term decision. Your life will change for at least ten years;
If you have no experience or knowledge of breeds, attend at least one dog show before deciding. And visit a breeder;
Ask yourself why you choose a dog. If you're looking for companionship, then calmer dogs, like a chow chow or a poodle, are right for you; if you want a companion for outdoor walks, then a jack russel;
In any case, space is fundamental: the dog must have its own area in the house, where it can rest undisturbed, and a place nearby where it can run around;
Don't be fooled by the black market for cheap puppies: too often they are sick, in poor health, or, worse still, stolen.
When choosing your life partner, always make sure they have a pedigree booklet and a health record. These are essential.
Regarding gender, female dogs are more docile and adapt better to all situations. Males are more lively and demanding;
If you want dogs to watch over your house, you'll be spoiled for choice: but be careful not to bring dangerous or overly aggressive animals into the family;
Do you have children? Choose the calmest and most docile breeds;
For all doubts, an excellent read is the book How to choose the right dog and live happily together by Maria Luisa Cocozza (Sperling & Kupfer editions).

The races

Based on the criteria we've identified, let's give some concrete examples of dog choices suited to our needs. There's little space at home: a small dog is fine. poodle and an carlinoA dog that is very well-disposed for play, and also has excellent intelligence, is the Jack Russell. If you don't want to move a lot, opt for a long-haired dachshund, while the cane Corso It is a perfect guard animal that requires commitment and time for training. Finally, for children and for its extraordinary adaptability, we recommend the labrador retriever.

Purchase or adoption?

Once you've chosen your dog, you have two options: purchase or adoption. If you adopt, you can search for any raceThe search isn't difficult; municipal shelters are overflowing with dogs up for adoption, as are some very active local associations. And you'll have made the first gesture of love towards your dog.