Choosing a dog - dog.uk.com

Choosing a dog

Raising a dog is fun and can be one of life’s most awarding experiences. Time and care taken during the first year to educate your puppy into an ideal adult will be well rewarded. However the information you need is often lacking when you acquire your dog.

Almost every owner would like a dog that is loyal, well behaved, friendly and obeys most command, but most people live with a dog whose behaviour is less than perfect and they are tolerant of a wide variety of behaviours that do not conform to their idea of good conduct. However it is possible for everyone to have a well behave dog. All you need to do is to develop a better understanding of your dog and to change your behaviour towards him.

Which breed is right for you?

By making a careful choice of a puppy or an adult dog, you will ensure that you acquire a dog with a genetic make up that suits you. Here are some of the most popular breeds for you to consider.

German Shepherd Dog
· Bred for herding and guarding.
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Alert, attentive, tireless

Labrador Retriever
· Bred for retrieving fish and gain from icy water
· Activity level: Medium
· Characteristics: Good tempered, very agile, biddable

Border Collie
· Bred for herding sheep
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Persistent, hard-working, compliant

West Highland White Terrier
· Bred for killing rats and foxes
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Active, resolute, high self-esteem

Jack Russell Terrier
· Bred for killing rats and foxes
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Alert, courageous, tenacious

English Springer Spaniel
· Bred for flushing and retrieving gain
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Friendly, biddable, energetic

Golden Retriever
· Bred for retrieving game
· Activity level: Low
· Characteristics: Alert, attentative, tireless

Cocker Spaniel
· Bred for flushing and retrieving game
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Bustling, exuberant, affectionate

Staffordshire Bull Terrier
· Bred for fighting other dogs
· Activity level: Medium
· Characteristics: Fearless, tenacious, courageous

Yorkshire Terrier
· Bred for killing rats
· Activity level: Medium
· Characteristics: Alert, intelligent, spirited

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
· Bred for companionship
· Activity level: Low
· Characteristics: Affectionate and friendly

Boxer
· Bred for hunting bears and boars
· Activity level: High
· Characteristics: Lively, strong, loyal