Dog Breeds

Like picking any companion, choosing a dog needs careful thought. You probably have a myriad question trying to figure out which size, color, personality or temperament, gender [and a whole load of other factors] would make a perfect match with you and your family. You could be asking:

• Which pet dog needs what?
• Which breed of dog can comfortably live in a small house?
• How much money will I spend on dog maintenance?
• Which breed of dog is best for a home with kids?
• Which breed of dog is easily trainable?
• Is my favorite dog breed allowed where I live?
• Which breed suits my lifestyle?

Dogs live between five and thirteen years [some break the record and get to 20] and it’s hard to let them go once they have become a part of you or your family. Having the bigger picture of your life together—right from the beginning, will inform your choices and eventually make you a proud and responsible pet owner to a happy and healthy dog.

This is only possible if you know yourself too well, have a rough idea of various pet dog breeds and their needs, have the right house for the right breed and most importantly . . . if you truly are a dog person.

The cost of maintaining a cat in the first year is just slightly less than that of a pet dog, and there are other cheaper pets to keep and maintain in terms of money and time or commitment—like fish. Some breeds of dog will never feature on that list. They are either too costly to maintain or demanding, time-wise. Unless you are prepared, keep off.

You want a dog you can love and care for without feeling like it’s a sacrifice, right?

Here are different pet dog breeds you can choose from, based on the most important factors to consider when choosing a pet dog:

• Pet Dog Size

The smaller the dog, the smaller the space he takes up in the house. Space is an issue if you live in an apartment but there are petite breeds that can fit in without giving you a headache and one of them is Chihuahua. They are the fourth most popular pet dogs in the world and over time, they have won the hearts of many Kenyans so, you will find them in most homes.

Why do people like them? Besides being cute little things, Chihuahuas are smart fast-learners. They are also very lively and playful but they can be snappy and are known to be willful. They are also loyal and good at defense but if you have active kids, you might want to rethink getting one.

What’s the better alternative?

Bolognese. They are known to be docile, loyal, enterprising, playful and highly sociable but also quite reserved, unlike their cousins Bichon Frise.Other dogs that make perfect companions especially in homes with kids are Pug, Norfolk Terrier, Boston Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Border Terrier, Havanese, Keeshond, and Cocker spaniel.

• Pet Dog Maintenance

We covered pet grooming and noted while they all need washing and grooming, some pet dogs are high maintenance. Some require regular baths and brushing, and a breed like Boston Terrier will need his face washed every day—to take care of his big eyes. While you can take this time to be one of your bonding moments, your lifestyle might be too demanding hence a low maintenance pet dog would be ideal.

Some of the most easy maintenance pet dogs are: Rat Terrier, Norfolk Terrier, Manchester Terrier, Beagle, and Min Pin. They just need weekly brushing and only need a bath when they are dirty. If this is your biggest concern, pick one of them then check out other qualities.

• Pet Dog Personality/Temperament

For a home, especially with children, the temperament of the pet dog you choose is top of the list. A docile dog that does not snap quickly is a good choice. Some, as we have noted above are social and great with children. That is Pug, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Boston Terrier, Border Terrier, Keeshond, Cocker spaniel, Havanese, and Norfolk Terrier.

However, if you are looking for a dog whose presence you cannot ignore, you can try Jack Rusell, described as fearless, stubborn, energetic, athletic, intelligent, and vocal.

By the way, some dogs make great workout partners. They are naturally active. If you need a pet dog that can join in your morning jog or long evening walk, indicate that on your list as you search. Some dogs prefer to sit at home…

Conclusion

Finding the perfect pet dog is easy. You just need to know what you can handle, and understand what your breed of dog needs. Consider all basic factors and go for it.

Good luck!