New Puppies: Choosing Your Perfect Pooch
by Dr Liz Thrift
So, you’ve decided you’re a ‘dog person’
and are now looking into finding the perfect pooch. The decision to add a pet
to the family is an exciting time. The human-animal bond is a powerful one (we
don’t call them ‘man’s best friend’ for nothing!) but many factors can influence
the relationship you will have with your pet.
It certainly isn’t as simple as picking the cutest puppy and everything will all work out. Each dog is an individual, and while the look and feel of a breed can help guide us, it often comes down to the individual dog and the way it has been raised.
Size matters!
Dogs generally fall into one of the following categories: toy, small, medium, large and giant! While it is easier to guess how big a purebred dog will become, this becomes more of a grey area when looking at cross breeds. For example, a Labradoodle can be as small as 10kg or as big as 35kg, depending on whether it is crossed with a toy, miniature or standard poodle.
The size of dog you choose should take into account things like, your budget (big dogs cost more – often a lot more), space and your time commitments.
Activity levels
All dogs needs exercise. If you’re looking for a pet that can just sit around the house all day, then get a cat! There are, however, breeds that are more active than others. Working breeds like Kelpies and Labradors, whilst popular as family dogs, definitely require a lot of exercise and needs more mental stimulation than a 5 minute walk around the block. Otherwise they can become frustrated and destructive. Some of the smaller breeds, however, need less exercise and will be quite content to be asleep on your lap after a brief trip to the park.
Consider your lifestyle
Your new dog needs to fit into your lifestyle. Cavoodles can be a great family dog where as a Labrador is well suited to the more athletic individual. A Kelpie in a studio apartment is not a good idea!
Grooming
Every dog needs grooming – whether it’s a daily brush at home or a nail clip every few months. Not all dogs can be managed at home and will require regular visits to the groomer. This is becoming increasingly important as we see more Poodle crosses (Spoodles, Cavoodles and Labradoodles). Much of their popularity is because their coat can be perfect for those with allergies.
Intelligence
Some dogs are just smarter than others. Some breeds, such as the Border Collie and Poodle, are well known for their high intellect. So, while their physical health is important, meeting the needs of their mental health is just as vital. If you don’t give your dog the mental stimulation they require, they will find their own outlet. Most commonly, this manifests in undesirable behaviour, such as digging holes in the garden, barking or chewing your furniture!
One dog or two?
This is a very personal decision and will vary from family to family. There can certainly be benefits for having more than one dog. Dogs are pack animals and thrive when they feel they have a secure pack surrounding them. The pack mentality, however, can be a complex one. It may not be as simple as just putting two dogs together and they will become best friends.
I′ve picked a dog, now what?
Create a shortlist of breeds of interest you, taking into account the above factors. Organise to chat with your veterinarian about specific problems or worries. This way, you can be fully informed as to what to look for in your new pet.
Sourcing your dog is the next step. Common breeds can be easily found through breeders, kennel clubs or pet shops. But don’t overlook those dogs that are looking for a second chance. The pound and rescue shelters are constantly looking to re-home both puppies and adult dogs.
There are no absolutes when it comes to choosing a dog, but putting some thought in at the outset can save a lot of time, hassle and sometimes heartbreak down the track.
Regardless of where you get your dog from and the type of dog, it is so important to be informed regarding the steps in raising a puppy or adult dog. Information is power! So please don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian to discuss all that is involved. We love animals too and want to be there to hold your hand through the trials of puppyhood, all the way to managing your dog in their older years!
Section Links
Article:
Your New Puppy: A Guide to It's Care
Puppy School @ Double Bay Vet Clinic
Article: Toilet training your new puppy - coming soon.
Article: The
importance of training & behaviour - coming soon.
Video: 20-a-Day
- How to Socialise Your Puppy - coming soon.
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