| CHOOSING YOUR IDEAL DOG | | | | dog's level of activity is frequently determined on its |
| If you have decided to get one, then it is now time to | | | | breed. All dogs need regular exercise. If you are |
| decide the kind of pooch that you want. There iIf you | | | | aware that you can't commit yourself to do activities |
| are considering having a dog for yourself, you must be | | | | that require too much energy, then you might as well |
| aware that this is a very important decision. To begin | | | | do with a lower-energy dog. Many problems on dog |
| with, you must make sure that you are prepared for a | | | | behavior usually result from excess energy. So, be |
| pet and that you are aware of the cost of owning it.s | | | | prepared to fine-tune the amount of attention and |
| a number of factors to consider in choosing the dog | | | | exercise you give your dog if needed. |
| that would fit your wants, needs and your lifestyle. Just | | | | Maintenance Needs (Physical) |
| never forget that having a pet entails commitment and | | | | The appearance of your dog may have much to |
| responsibility. Looks should be the last thing you think | | | | contribute to his needs for maintenance. Basic |
| about so do not predetermine which breed you want | | | | grooming is essential for all dogs, but certain kinds need |
| without considering all of the following traits very | | | | more of it based on their hair coat type. Some dogs |
| carefully. | | | | may require more advanced regular grooming and |
| Dog Size | | | | some may need additional cleaning up. In addition, some |
| You may have a little dog in your mind or you might | | | | types of dogs may do much drooling; thus, they tend |
| prefer having those giant breeds. If you can't choose, | | | | to be messier. |
| then maybe a medium-sized one is a fine choice. | | | | Age |
| Keep in mind that tiny dogs have a tendency of being | | | | Puppies call for the utmost amount of attention and |
| vulnerable and delicate. Being mishandled or stepped | | | | training, particularly during its first 6 months. Adult dogs |
| on can cause serious harm. Small dogs may also be | | | | may be a perfect choice if you desire to obtain a |
| more susceptible to colder atmospheres, thus, requiring | | | | better idea of your dog's attitude, true energy level and |
| you to provide them more warmth. | | | | temperament. However, having adult dogs doesn't |
| Large animals call for wider spaces in order to be able | | | | ensure that it already has proper training, so expect |
| to move around. They also require more exercise. | | | | some devoted training at the start. A senior dog may |
| Another important thing to consider is expense. The | | | | make a great companion if you want lower-energy |
| larger your dog is, the more costly stuffs like pet | | | | dogs. However, they may tend to require more special |
| supplies, dog food and medical treatments become. | | | | attention since these dogs are the ones that are more |
| Level of Activity | | | | prone to health problems which may cost you money |
| Some dogs tend to be more energetic than others. A | | | | and extra time. |