subject: Secrets to selecting the ideal dog for you [print this page] Secrets to selecting the ideal dog for you
Firstly, it is important to choose the type of breed you want from the 150 separate dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, and hundreds more variations of breeds in addition to those. This step is important because different breeds require different type of care due to different size and special needs, environmental compatibility, lifestyle choices and even exercises that different breeds require. There are some breeds that require more attention than others too.
Although there are so many breeds out there, do not worry so much as it is actually very simple to choose the ideal dog for you. Firstly you read up about the breed you are interested in and look out for their behavior in the past. Then you ask yourself whether you can provide the ideal environment and care for the particular breed. When you are able to fulfill all the needs of the dog, they will in time become the best and loyal friends you will ever make. However when that does not happen, problems can be created and both the owner and the dog will have a miserable life living together.
The next step is to look out for the ideal energy level for you as it is one of the most important part you must play to create a fulfilling lifetime with the dog. Although different dog breeds come with a certain activity level attached, but each individual dogs' personal energy level will vary. Understanding the energy level and reading it is an essential skill to hone as an encyclopedic knowledge of dog breeds.
There are four main energy levels
1) Very high: Constantly moving from morning to night. Can walk or run for hours on end and still filled with energy
2) High: Very athletic, prefers very vigorous activities, but tires normally and is ready to sleep at the end of the day
3) Medium: On the look out for normal physical activities, at times may want vigorous ones. However, prefers equal periods of rest
4) Low: The basic couch potato dog. It prefers resting for the whole day to any activities. A couple of regular walks a day will be plenty of exercise for it
Here is a good tip for you, I recommend that the choice of the perfect dog should have the same energy level or lower than you. If there are other dogs at home, it is even more important not to choose a dog packed with energy. You will need to spend enough time to be with them and they will want to be having more activities with you. Therefore, choosing the right energy level the dog has is important so as you as the owner will not get tired out when providing them with the attention they need.
