Choose The Right Family Dog

Don't Give In to The First Adorable Pair of Puppy Eyes
The sad fact is that 4 out of 10 families will give up the dog they choose within the first year. This can be a terrible heartbreak for you and your family. While it may seem like an easy decision, how will you face your children if you make the WRONG choice? Choosing a dog with characteristics that compliment the personalities and lifestyle of your family will ensure a beautiful friendship and a long relationship with your dog.

You probably already guessed that certain breeds, like Golden Retrievers and Labradors, are fantastic with kids. But what suits the lifestyle and personality of one family will not work for another. There IS a dog that will fit in with your family, but you'll need help figuring out which one.

If you are bringing a dog home to your children ASK YOURSELF THIS...

• Is Your Family Ready for a Dog? Learn what’s involved in dog care and assess whether a dog is a good fit for your family right now.

• Do You Want a Purebred or a Mutt? Learn the benefits and risks associated with purchasing a purebred vs. mutt. Avoid surprises and understand the costs.

• What are the Best Breeds for Families?Choose a breed to suit your lifestyle, dogs for indoors, active living, quiet living, high maintenance, low maintenance etc.

• Which Breed Suits YOUR Family? Choose a breed that will best suit your family by understanding grooming, exercise and health requirements of various breeds.

For many people, buying a dog for children is a spontaneous decision, and one that often leads to disappointment. The truth is, dog’s are an investment of time, energy and money. The fact that many people do not spend any time researching this important decision causes many parents to find themselves resenting this additional responsibility and eventually getting rid of the dog or ignoring it's needs.

He sure is cute - but is he right for YOUR family?

So many animals end up in shelters. Be responsible. When you do find the right one for you, get him or her spayed or neutered.

PS: Starting next week, I will be talking about a new breed each week. If you have a question about a breed, just post a comment and I will try my best to answer as many as I can on here.