There are certain things to look for when deciding on a dog breed.  It is important that you realize the responsibility you are taking on. The first 6-8 months of having a puppy can be a difficult time. You will spend hours teaching you dog to go to the bathroom outside and teaching your puppy to learn it's name and to come when called. Even with dogs that are described as  intelligent dogs and easy to train  these things can take time.

 Read about breeds that interest you and see if the descriptions fit what you want from a dog. Choose a breed that compliments you and your personality.  If you have children it may be important to choose a dog that is described as "good" with children. Take your child's age into account. Are they toddlers that can easily be knocked down by a large dog or a dog with a big wagging tail. Are they teenagers too busy with school and after school activities to help with the responsibility?

Are you looking for a small dog, such as a Shih Tzu ,Pekingese, Poodle, or Yorkie?  Or perhaps you’re looking for a Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, or French Bulldog, or German Shepherd?   No?  Maybe a Basset Hound is more to your type?

The point is that a dog’s temperament does play a role in deciding what type of dog you choose.  In addition, you may wish to ask yourself these questions before deciding.

* Are you looking for a large dog.?
* Will the dog fit in into your lifestyle?  
* Would you prefer a short haired or long-haired dog?  
* Do you want a dog that is active, easy going, quite or playful?
* Are you interested in a breeder with "show dogs"?
* Will your dog be an inside or outside dog ?
* Are you looking for a dog to guard your home or business?
* Do you have the time to care for a dog, or will your dog spend many hours alone?
* Do you want a dog that learns things quickly?
* Would you prefer a dog that is independent and can be left alone?
* Do you have a soft spot in your heart for a mutt?

It's important to ask yourself these questions so that the dog does not get returned to the breeder or to a shelter because you don't have the time or patience to deal with the dogs needs. Make your decision wisely. No one can predict exactly how your individual dog will behave. The books, breeders and dogs owners can only speak from experience and books try to give an accurate description of your breeds behavior. No one knows how a mutt will behave.Once you have answered these questions, you can make a sound decision. Will you choose  to adopt a dog from a shelter, or  are you looking to acquire a show dog? Have you settled on the breed you want or is a mutt  just fine?
 

For example,if you choose a Labrador Retriever . They are great with children, have a playful personality, are very loving, and can readily be found either from a breeder  or a rescue group. You can even go online to find a breeder.  Show dogs will cost you more.

Search carefully for the right dog for you and your family .  Make a list of your needs. Make a second list for the questions you need to ask anyone you get a dog from. The right questions may help you avoid getting a sick puppy , a sick dog or a show dog that's not a real "show dog".

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        Fran Gratton  RubMyBellyToo.com  POB 107  116 Gay Street Phoenixville, PA 19460  610-933-5810  888-558-3837

                                                          I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.   Phillipians 4:13