Picking the right dog can be very difficult. Many times our hearts overtake our ability to make rational decisions based on the reality of our individual situations. It is when we try and pick a puppy based solely on how “cute” they are that gets us in trouble. Many other components must be taken into consideration. Dogs are time commitments and thinking things through in regards to picking the right one will be paramount to a successful relationship with your canine companion. Go down the following list to decide which dog will best for you:
- What purpose will it serve in the field – retrieving, flushing, pointing, trailing, barking treed?
- How far do I want my dog to range in the field?
- What purpose will it serve at home?
- How much time do you have to spend with the puppy house breaking it?
- Will it be kept inside or outside?
- Do I have accommodations for inside or outside living for my dog?
- If you aren’t able to train it for fieldwork – who will?
- Where will you keep the dog while at work?
- What kind of temperament do I want my dog to have?
- What kind of temperament will my dog need from me?
- Do I have access to adequate space to run my dog?
- What role will my significant other or my kids play in the dog’s life?
- Where will I take my dog for veterinary care?
- How will I transport my dog?
- Can I afford to financially accommodate my dog in the manner he deserves?
- What type of training tools will I need – training collars, retrieving dummies etc?
- Am I going to want to breed my dog?
- Do I think my needs and wants will change in what I need in a dog five years from now?
Carefully consider each of these topics. If you have a significant other, or kids that will be playing a role in the dogs life, include them in the relevant subjects listed above. It is very important to not only think about these issues, but to think them through, before making a decision.
Speak Your Mind