What factors would you consider when choosing a dog?

1. 86

   midget38posted 10 years ago

   What factors would you consider when choosing a dog?

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2. 83

   mary615posted 10 years ago

   I would choose a small breed because I enjoy having a "lap dog".  Some breeds seem to be more loving and sweet than others.  My very favorite all around breed is the Shih Zhu. 
   Factors that are important to me include:  disposition, size, hypoallergenic, the hair coat (does it need to be brushed daily?)

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3. 93

   carolynkayeposted 10 years ago

   Some of the things I'd consider would be the dog's personality, whether it gets along well with other dogs and cats, how much care its coat involves, the size, the activity level and how much it barks.

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4. 61

   relawsheposted 10 years ago

   There are SO many factors to consider when choosing a dog!  I wanted a dog to jog with me, so I adopted a rescue dog who was suspected of being a mix of Border Collie & Australian Cattle Dog, and both of these dog breeds are "herder" breeds, meaning their bloodlines were bred for running, chasing, and herding animals like cattle & sheep.  So I knew my dog would be a great runner, although best as a sprinter, not for long distances. 
   You should think about what purpose you want to dog for.  Do you want a small lap dog?  A dog to take to the park and play frisbee with?  A "guard" dog with a fierce-sounding bark to ward intruders away from your house? 
   Also think about how much exercise your dog is going to need.  Research breed characteristics and get knowledgeable about what breeds are known by what characteristics.  A small dog that doesn't want or need much exercise is going to do well in a small house or apartment where it won't have much space.  A large dog will need more exercise. 
   Also, if you work long hours and won't be able to give the dog any attention during the day, choose a breed that is low-energy and okay with being by itself.
   A dog's breed determines a lot, but not everything of course.  A breed determines lots of personality and physical traits, but not everything.  How you nurture and train the dog will make whatever breed of dog into a well-behaved obedient dog, or a lack of training will turn even the smallest dog into an annoying monster.

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5. 73

   travmajposted 10 years ago

   A dog should be chosen with the greatest care when possible - families will look for a dog who is good with children - many people want small dogs especially if space is limited.
   The breed of the dog should be taken into consideration - some are much more active then others and need more attention.
   Some breeds have genetic problems that may or may not manifest as the dog grows older. Wise to be aware of this.
   Having said all that ,my dogs throughout the years, all shapes and sizes and breeds have all been the very best. I don't recall checking much out at all - just fell for them and the rest was history.

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6. 94

   agilitymachposted 10 years ago

   What factors would "I" consider when choosing a dog or what factors should the average house dog owner consider when choosing a dog because there is a VAST difference between the two answers!!!!  I want the monster, crazed, "hyper" dog with drive beyond drive that is wonderfully insane with super structure.  This type of dog would be either put in a shelter or euthanized in a normal "pet" home.

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7. 0

   MrsBrownsParlourposted 10 years ago

   As much as I like certain breeds, I would only adopt a rescue or shelter dog on principle. I'd consider the dog's ability to live with children and personality (less hyper is better for me). But the deciding factor would be a feeling of connection that says "That's the one! That's my dog." :-)

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8. 60

   asp6889posted 10 years ago

   I think that one of the big concerns when choosing any pet is how it will potentially react to the rest of your family. For example, if you have small children, large or aggressive dogs would probably not be a great idea. Even some tiny, fragile dogs will not work out with small children since they feel vulnerable and will defend themselves if they feel it necessary.
   You need to consider how much space you have outdoors for your dog to exercise and play, because it's unlikely you'll always be available to take it out when it needs/wants to.
   Money is a big issue as well. Dogs require food, bedding, toys, vet visits, etc. If you can't afford to feed a large dog are take it for rabies shots and annual checkups, it's probably wise not to get one at all.
   Your time is also a factor. Dogs usually crave your love and attention. If you're gone all day at work and too tired to take it out for daily walks, your dog will be extremely unhappy. However, if you work from home, or have a job that allows you to spend adequate time at home, then you should have no reason to spend time with your dog.
   On a side note, some would consider where you got the dog to be a factor in choosing one. If you want a pure-bred dog, make sure you research where you are getting it. If you want a dog to be a good companion and not a good show dog, then I would suggest your local animal shelter. These dogs are always in need of the love they deserve. But again, research where the dog came from. Some dogs are turned into the shelter because they were abused or even abusive. Both of these could cause psychological damage to the dog, and it may be hard to trust. Puppies are good to start with since they haven't been highly impressed upon yet, but they take extra work to train them the way you want them to act!

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