Author: Keren Dinkin
Choosing which dog is right for you is not simply about selecting the most adorable pup in your eyes or picking one at random and hoping it turns out to be your match.
Each dog breed has a personality and set of habits that should match or complement yours. Being a responsible dog owner begins by selecting the dog with whom you could nurture a satisfying relationship.
A mismatch could lead to unmet needs and expectations of both the dog owner and the pet, leading to a cold and distant relationship (yes, like in humans!).
So before you jump into it, here’s a guide to help you choose which dog is best for you.
What Is Your Profile and Personality?
Are you married with little kids? Perhaps you are single and frequently travel for business? Are you a homebody or an athlete who loves the outdoors?
It is important to match your personality and profile with your dog choice because different breeds have different personalities and activity levels.
If you are young and want a playful dog, you could be a good match for a Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Pomeranian, Golden Retriever, or a Jack Russell Terrier. These dogs have tons of energy that could be compatible with your fun-loving personality.
If you are a bit laidback and want a dog to join you for a leisurely walk in the park, a medium-sized, non-aggressive dog who is quite fit but calm is your best bet. Dog breeds like the Standard Schnauzer, Irish Setter, and the Brittany make a good match.
What Is Your Home Environment Like?
Do you live in an apartment? Does your home have a small or large yard?
There dog breeds that love to run around and need wide open spaces to thrive like the German Shepherd, Anatolian Shepherd, Bull Terrier, Australian Sheep Dog, Siberian Huskies (fenced in), Labrador Retriever, American Foxhound, Vizsla, and other similar wanderlusts who crave a spacious, outdoor environment.
If you live in a small home with a micro or non-existent yard, you’re better off choosing a Maltese, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Yorkshire Terrier, or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These dog breeds don’t mind lazing around in limited spaces due to their size or level of attachment to their owner.
These breeds can be comfortable on a couch or small spaces just playing with toys, enjoying chewy treats, or clinging to their owners.
Do You Have an Active Lifestyle or a Relaxed, Sedentary Routine?
If you love the outdoors, it would be nice to have an outdoor junkie dog, too, so you could build a bond while camping, trekking or hiking, or soaking up the sun by the beach. Your dog must be able to keep up with your level of energy and vice versa.
Being on the same vigor wavelength as your dog leads to more fun and fitness activities together. A dynamo mismatch could cause one of you to stop to catch your breath while the other romps on in wild abandon, spoiling the fun.
And while your daring spirit may have a penchant for treacherous trails, doing it with your dog requires extra care because you are responsible for its safety.
Dog breeds that can match your stamina are the Siberian Husky, Labrador Retriever, Vizsla, Collie, Australian Shepherd, Australian Cattledog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Portuguese Waterdog, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Rottweilers. These muscular and athletic hounds make great trail partners.
Don’t forget to give your four-legged fellow fitness buff protein-rich treats to keep its muscles strong for your outdoor adventures.
On the other hand, if you prefer gentle days watching some flicks or reading a book while lounging on your couch, you need a dog that relates to your lifestyle. A furry friend that prefers the coziness of home tucked in a quiet corner makes a good companion for your relaxed days.
Take your pick from among these breeds: English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Chihuahua, Bullmastiffs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, American Hairless Terrier, Basset Hound, Greyhound, Chowchow, and other similar indoor-loving pups.
It’s a Match!
Now, you can narrow down your choices and pick the best pup that matches you! Do remember that this living, breathing creature is going to be part of your life, so it has to be a mutually-satisfying relationship that can last. You will be the one primarily responsible for its care and well-being, so a good fit is necessary to foster a bond.
A dog becomes discontent if his nature and needs cannot find satisfaction because it is in the wrong place.
Promoting a Healthy Environment
And what’s a happy place for a hound? One that creates a healthy environment that is satisfying and sustainable for the dog, the owner, and the planet you both live in – where dogs and humans can safely roam around and enjoy the outdoors and delicious, naturally sourced treats.
Natural Farm Pet promotes social good by partnering with the One Tree Planted Organization. We plant a tree to match your wholesome choice for each eco-friendly packed, organic product you buy!
This mutually beneficial exchange leads to a happy and content dog and an equally satisfied owner helping the planet breathe more with a new tree you help us plant with every purchase.
Now that’s a perfect match!
