PET CARE Which dog breed is right for you?

All dogs are not the same…


Ask the vet
Ester Van Luipen

Getting a puppy
Part 2

Last week, we started our four-part series on how to choose a puppy. This week, we’ll look at the kind of dog that suits your lifestyle.
If there is a certain breed that appeals to you, try to read a book about the breed and look up different sites about the breed on the internet. If you know anyone with the kind of dog you are interested in, talk to them about the dog and its needs. Why not visit a good dog show? 
There is a bewildering array of dog breeds out there, so here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you narrow down the field.

Big or small
A small or a large dog? Do you have the space for a large dog. If you have a small apartment it is better to get a small quiet breed of a dog. A big Alsatian would simply be unhappy in a situation like that, unless you take it for very long walks a couple of times a day.

Quiet or lively
A quiet or lively dog? The livelier the dog, the more time you will have to spend exercising it. If you want a collie or a greyhound you will have to take it for long walks where they can run to their hearts content. A collie also needs a lot of stimulation, preferably work, like bringing in cattle or herding sheep. If they don’t get the exercise they often resort to chasing cars.

Character
What kind of character? Do you want an easy-going dog like a Labrador or do you want a dog with a strong character like a terrier. If possible at all try to find out the character of the parents. That will often tell you something about how the puppies will turn out.

Health problems
Inheritable diseases? A lot of purebred dogs have diseases that are associated with the breed. For instance pugs and bull dogs often have breathing problems. Pugs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can have heart problems.

Hair type
Long hair or short hair? Rough or smooth hair? If you want a dog with long hair, think about the fact that it will have to be groomed regularly. Short haired dogs are much easier to keep. Bichon frises don’t shed, so they are ideal for families that don’t want any hairs flying around.

Task traits
Working dog? Make sure you get the right breed. Do you want a dog for hunting, bringing in the cattle or to guard your premises? For instance if you want to go hunting there are dogs that are more suitable for fetching water fowl than for fetching rabbits.

There are so many breeds of dogs that it is impossible to write about them individually. The internet is a good source to find out some things about each breed. If you want to find out about inheritable diseases, ask your local vet – and remember to bring a new puppy straight to your vet for a checkup!

Esther van Luipen is a veterinary surgeon in Claremorris Small Animal Practice. Feel free to contact her with any of your small-animal concerns on 094 9373955 or at living@mayonews.ie.