What breed of dog is best for your family?
There are quizzes for that!
I want to throw some questions out there, to get the conversation started. The most important questions start with your lifestyle and the amount of time and energy you have to devote to a new puppy.
1. What type of home do you live in? A house with a back yard, where you pup has free reign?
Or, an apartment, where frequent walks are a given? Are the neighbors going to complain about the
noise? Dogs do get excited and bark, some more that others!
2. Who lives in your home? Do you live alone, have children, other pets?
3. How clean do you expect your home to be with a dog? Puppies have accidents, and they chew! Are you comfortable with the possibility of sacrificing your favorite pair of shoes or favorite rug?
Do you mind if your dog sheds, and what level of grooming are you committed to?
4. What type of climate to you live in? While most dogs are comfortable with the changing seasons and adapt well to the change in temperatures, some dogs are just not meant to survive in the harsh cold and snow of some regions. The same can be said for extreme heat!
5. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Are you a couch potato? Do you go on adventures? Do you enjoy outdoor activities or, are you more a dinner and theater type of guy?
After you have given those things some thought, then comes the questions about dog personality, trainability, energy level, companionship.
1. What size dog are you comfortable with? Micro, medium, small horse? Think back to that first question, what type of home do you live in?
2. What personality trait most interest you? Loyalty, Hyper, Fun Loving, Cute, Snuggly!
3. Do you have a need for security or personal protection? Is a watch dog your goal or Companionship?
4. What do you feel the most important quality is in a dog? Good attitude, intelligence, high energy.
5. What do you plan on doing with your dog daily? Not just the walks that are a must, but true interaction. Are you willing to spend time playing outdoors? Are you devoted to playing ball, teaching new tricks, splashing in the pool? Do you desire a hunting companion? Do you need an adventure buddy, to hike, kayak, camp with? Do you just need a companion to take slow walks and sit on the porch?
6. What is your idea for dog accessories? Pink Tutus and tiaras or a good collar and leash!
Some of these questions may sound a little bizarre to you, some you may have never given a second thought. Dog ownership is a commitment! Dogs need companionship, discipline, love and attention!
There is a dog for everyone, but certain breeds of dog are better for some than others.
We here at Ruffwood Labs
are partial to the Labrador Retriever for the following reasons:
Personality: Friendly and outgoing, Labs play well with others Energy Level: Very Active; Labs are high-spirited and not afraid to
show it Good with Children: Yes Good with other Dogs: With Supervision Shedding: Seasonal Grooming: Occasional Trainability: Eager To Please Height: 22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female) Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female) Life Expectancy: 10-12 years Barking Level: Barks When Necessary
