Picking a dog is a huge decision. Since you’ll be spending the next decade or more together, you need as close to a perfect fit as you can get. So much has been written about the energy and temperament aspects of this decision, but the question I’m most often asked is, “What is the healthiest breed?” And my answer to that question is always the same: It isn’t a breed but simply a 30-pound brown mutt.

Do Your Research

When you’re thinking about bringing a new puppy into your home, it’s essential to do your research and learn about the different dogs available. Each breed has its unique characteristics, and some may be a better fit for your lifestyle than others. For example, certain dogs require more exercise than others, and some breeds are more prone to specific health conditions. It’s also important to consider the level of care you can provide. Some pups need daily grooming, while others only need to be brushed once or twice a week. By learning about the different dog breeds, you can find the perfect match for you and your family.

Expensive Designer Breeds

Attempts to bridge the gap between purebred looks, predictability, and mutt health—and come up with something completely new—have resulted in “designer breeds.” These are the Puggles, Labradoodles, Maltipoos, and the like. They’ve intentionally created mixes that, while not purebred, can still maintain some of the expected traits we look for and have some of the advantages of hybrid vigor. These dogs, as a rule, do seem to me to be healthier than some of the pure breeds, but they can be expensive, especially when compared with a mixed breed from a rescue or a shelter.

Mixed Breeds

Because of what’s known as “hybrid vigor,” the midsize mixed pup is, on average, the healthiest dog. Hybrid vigor derives from the idea that the more breeds in a dog’s genetic mix, the less likely it is that the genetic problems of purebreds will manifest themselves. Of course, there are healthy purebreds and very unhealthy mixes, but if you want to go with the odds, pick the mix every time.

Characteristics of a Healthy Puppy

When the time comes to add a new furry family member, many people turn to puppies. However, before you run out and buy the first one you see, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some aspects to look for when buying a puppy.

• Eyes: Should be clear and bright. If you notice any discharge, be sure to contact the veterinarian immediately.
• Coat: It should be clean and lustrous.
• Weight: Make sure the puppy's weight is on track, not over or underweight. Supplements are not needed if your dog maintains a balanced diet.
• Mouth: The puppy's mouth should be fresh, pink, and free of tartar or plaque. There should be no sores or growths on the mouth and lips.
• Ears: Pups with dirty ears may experience pain and hearing loss. To avoid this, make sure the ears are clean & free of discharge or odor.
• Nose: There should be no sores or discharge from the pup's nose, and it should be clean.

Places to Purchase a Healthy Puppy

Purchasing a puppy is a big decision, and there are several factors to consider before bringing a new furry friend into your home. One of the most critical decisions is choosing where to purchase your puppy. There are three main options: breeders, shelters, and online retailers. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to visit multiple places before deciding.

Adoption

Adopting a rescue puppy is one of the best things you’ll ever do. Your local animal shelter or rescue organization can help match your family with the perfect pet in no time! You have options for every type and breed, too – there are even designer dogs like Labradoodles. However, shelter pups may come with behavioral issues from their previous homes, so be prepared to do some extra training.

Responsible Breeder

Breeders are an excellent option if you have your heart set on a specific breed of dog, and they can help you find a puppy that matches your lifestyle and personality. However, breeders can be expensive, and it’s essential to visit several different ones to find one that is reputable and produces healthy puppies.

Places NOT to Purchase a Puppy

Pets can provide companionship, love, and security in our lives. However, before you head out to your local pet store or breeder to pick up your new best friend, it’s vital to do your research and find a trustworthy source for your pet. Contrary to popular belief, not all pet stores and breeders are created equal – some are responsible and humane while others prioritize profits over the welfare of their animals. So, where should you NOT purchase a puppy? Keep reading for a few places you should avoid!

Puppy Mill

You might think buying an animal from these places will help and that you are “rescuing a puppy,” but all the money goes back into their owner’s pocket- they won’t stop breeding! If you see someone keeping dogs in conditions akin to cages or kennels with little space for movement (or even just outdoors), alerting local authorities is better than purchasing one outright.

Pet Store

When someone purchases a pup from the pet store, the establishment receives revenue (which, in turn, goes right to a puppy mill). This patronage encourages them to continue selling puppies because every time someone buys one, it ensures there’ll be demand for yet MORE.

Online Retailers

The internet is a vast, expansive place with many hidden dangers. People looking to buy pets online should be aware that there’s no way to know what kind or where their purchase will come from – and some websites can even scam you out of money!

Ask Questions

Before you decide to purchase a puppy, it’s essential to ensure that it’s the right fit for you and your family. Dogs are a big commitment, and you need to be prepared to care for them for the next 10-15 years. That means providing them with food, shelter, exercise, and love. It’s also important to ask questions about the dog’s health background. By asking these questions, you can ensure that you’re prepared to provide the best possible care for your new puppy.

Questions To Ask the Breeder or Shelter

• What is the Dog’s Health Status?

  You should know what veterinary care your new pup has received from the shelter or rescue. For example, are their vaccinations up-to-date, and have they been spayed (or neutered)? Ask for copies of records; think long-term, too–ask about known health conditions that may affect cost and compatibility, then consider whether it is worth adopting.

• Where Did the Dog Come From?

  There are many reasons why dogs end up in shelters and rescues. For instance, some may have been picked up as strays while others can be found through surrendering or buying from shady breeders! The more knowledge you have on the pup’s background will help give insight into whether or not the dog will work for you and your family.

• What Breed or Mix of Breeds is the Dog?

  Many rescues specialize in purebred dogs if you’re looking for a specific breed. However, mixed breeds can be wonderful companions too! Either way, knowing the type of dog will help predict their personality and meet needs better- so take this into account when picking out your new best friend.

Commonly Asked Questions About Picking a Healthy Puppy

Should the Puppy Be Vaccinated Before I Buy It?

A responsible breeder will have the puppies vaccinated before you are scheduled to bring them home.

Do I Need a Receipt When Purchasing a Pup?

Yes, please keep all paperwork given to you the day you buy your puppy. This is confirmation that you own your furry friend.

Is It Normal for a Breeder To Ask For a Deposit?

It can be hard to know what breeder you can trust. Going by word of mouth is usually recommended. They might ask for an initial deposit before they’ll even let you on their list, but this isn’t always the case. Before giving over your money, make sure that the details of any agreement are precise and check whether or not these pups have been born yet.

How Can I Spot an Online Scam?

• They will only communicate by email, and are likely outside of the US and are trying to hide their phone number. A reputable breeder will talk on the phone or even video chat.
• The photos used in their ad are stock photos. You can search the text listed to see if the image has been used somewhere else.
• If the price sounds too good to be true, they are likely looking to scam you. Do your research and find the average price you should expect to pay, especially for purebreds.
• If the seller asks you to pay in a strange way, such as through wire transfers or gift cards. Credit cards and Paypal are the safest options. We do not suggest paying with Venmo, as getting your money back if necessary can be more complicated.

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When you’re thinking about picking up a dog from your local shelter, don’t look past the older dogs. They make great pets for a number of reasons.

Positives to Adopting and Older Dog 

Senior dogs at shelters need homes just as badly as younger dogs

Many older dogs were once owned and loved by someone. For whatever reason, they were given up and abandoned in a shelter and are in need of a home. Just like puppies and younger adoptable dogs, they make loyal and loving companions.

Adopting an older dog may save its life

Many people are quick to adopt puppies and younger dogs, often overlooking dogs over the age of five. Shelters are overcrowded and unfortunately, older dogs are among the first to be euthanized if they aren’t adopted in a timely manner. By adopting a senior dog, you are not only providing it with a better life but are also saving it from being put down.

Older dogs are not necessarily “problem dogs” as many tend to think

Senior dogs lose their homes for a variety of reasons, usually having nothing to do with their behavior or temperament, but more due to the fact that their owners are unable to keep them for reasons including: the novelty of owning a dog wearing off, allergies, death of a guardian, a new baby, loss of a job, a move, change in work schedule, and various other lifestyle changes. These dogs need homes just as badly as young adoptees do, and make wonderful household pets.

Older dogs usually come trained and understand at least basic commands

Most older dogs are potty-trained and have mastered the basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” Adopting an already-trained dog will save you a lot of time and energy that you’d normally have to dedicate towards training a young dog.

You can teach an old dog new tricks

Dogs can be trained at any age and older dogs are just as smart as younger ones. Older dogs have a greater attention span than a puppy, which make them easier to train.

Older dogs are calmer and less energetic than younger dogs

An adult dog has graduated from the puppy stage and has an established demeanor and temperament, which will give you an instant idea of how it will fit into your household. Older dogs have all their adult teeth and are out of the energetic puppy phase, which will result in less destruction to your home. Many of them do well with young children as they have a lower energy level and have possibly lived with them in their past homes.

Older dogs make instant companions

Unlike a puppy, which requires leash training, etc. an older dog is ready to accompany you on a long walk and already knows how to play fetch. An adult dog will make a great workout partner, a loyal companion, and a late night snuggle buddy.

For those of you who have adopted a senior dog, please share your stories in the Comments section below.

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This is an important question to ask because Millennials — people born between roughly 1981 and 1995 — now make up the largest group of pet owners in the U.S., and they’re also becoming pet owners younger than previous generations did. According to a Wakefield study, as cited by Purina, the average dog-owning Millennial first adopts when they’re 21, while the average age for Baby Boomers was 29. That’s an encouraging trend.

But does this mean that they should run right out and adopt a dog? As with anyone, the answer is always… “Maybe.”

Do You Have the Time?

Owning a pet right after you get out of college can be challenging because of the lack of time, lack of money, lack of stability, lack of space, and so on.

But I believe the benefits of pet ownership for Millennials far outweigh the negatives. I know dogs can help busy Millennials re-connect to nature. A dog doesn’t send text messages, doesn’t have social media and dogs can connect with people in a way that other humans can’t.

Whenever someone asks me for advice on which dog they should adopt, the first thing I tell them is to ask themselves whether they’re ready to have a dog in the first place. Are they going to have enough time to properly walk and exercise the dog multiple times a day, every day? Do they live in a situation that’s calm and stable enough for a dog? Can they afford food, toys, treats, medical care, and any unexpected expenses that come up?

There are a few unique challenges that Millennials face that previous generations did not.

New Challenges for Dog Owners

For example, they are surrounded by technology. They have adapted to this technology like no other generation — which is both a good thing and a bad thing.

We all know the stereotype of the young adult who lives with their face buried in their phone and, while they’re not the only generation that can be guilty of that, they can certainly be more tied in to their technology than others. This connectivity can be great when it comes to staying in touch with friends and family, keeping up with the latest developments, and even joining and working for causes.

But it can be a very bad thing when it gets in the way of relationships with other humans or pets — if you wind up neglecting your dog because you pay too much attention to your phone, then you probably shouldn’t have a dog, no matter when you were born.

In a lot of ways, Millennials have the right temperament and compassion to be fantastic pet owners. They tend to do a lot of research on dogs before they commit, which is unique to their generation. They also tend to pamper their pets with food, treats, and accessories that are more expensive and higher quality and they shop with the dog’s wellbeing in mind — they are far more likely than previous generations to actually pay attention to the materials and ingredients in their dog’s food, toys, bowls, and shampoo, for example.

Try Fostering First

I recommend that busy Millennials try fostering a dog first. You’d be helping to save the lives of a lot of dogs during the time that you’re a foster and fostering gives you a taste of what long-term pet ownership is all about.

I love the idea that Millennials are so enthusiastic about pet ownership, but I also want them to start off with as few problems as possible. Ultimately, they’re the only ones who can answer the question, based on their own individual circumstances: Am I ready to have a dog?

Don’t be disappointed or frustrated if the answer is, “Not right now.” It’s better to wait a while and go ahead when you’re ready than to rush ahead unprepared and fail. Someday, a dog will thank you — limitlessly — for taking the time to make the best decision possible.

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If you aren’t providing calm, assertive leadership then your dog will not follow you. I relearned this first hand when I was going through depression, and my pack abandoned me because I was not leading them.

One of the big reasons people wind up having problems with their dogs is that they started out with an incompatible dog. But in order to find the right match, you have to look at yourself and your pack first, and ask yourself a few questions.

1. Is your family ready for a dog?
   If you have children, are they old enough to understand that a dog is not a toy? Will someone be home all the time, or is everyone off at work or school the whole day? Are all the adult members of the family in agreement about getting a dog? Is anyone allergic?
2. Is your living space ready for a dog?
   Can you have dogs where you live, and are there any breed restrictions? Are you in a small apartment or a big house with a yard? Are there any rooms that would be off limits? If so, do you know how you would enforce the rules?
3. What is your household energy level and tone?
   Is your family very active or are you all couch potatoes? Early risers or night owls? Finally, are there any emotional issues going on? Any family tension can upset a calm assertive balance, and a dog will pick up on such things. If the emotional energy is not right, then now is not the time to bring a new dog into the situation.
4. Can you afford a dog right now?
   Remember, you’re making a commitment for the dog’s lifetime than can last ten or fifteen years, or longer. And you have to remember not only the regular, day-to-day expenses (such as food, toys, treats, grooming, and supplies), but the long term and unexpected costs — veterinary care, possible emergencies and, eventually, end of life issues.

Once you’ve considered all of these things, then it’s time to start looking for the dog that is compatible with you and your pack. Far too often, people have this idea that they’ll fall in love with the first dog they see at the shelter (and vice versa), then bring that dog home and everything will be wonderful and perfect.

That is the fantasy Disneyland version, and there’s a reason that people only visit Disneyland.  It’s a nice place, but you can’t live there. Any relationship with a dog needs to be grounded in reality. That’s the “Honesty” part in “Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty.” Before you start looking for a dog — or when you start looking at the causes of your dog’s problems — you have to look at yourself first.

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But there’s a lot that goes into being a good Pack Leader. A dog is a big responsibility, and ownership means being able to commit a significant amount of time and money. Often it can even require a lifestyle change.

First-time owners who don’t spend enough time learning about what they’re getting into can find themselves in over their heads and make big mistakes.

To keep yourself from falling into this category, here are some of the most common mistakes dog owners make.

Buying from a pet store instead of adopting
Why does it matter if you buy from a pet store instead of adopting? Because dogs that are commercially sold often face extremely poor conditions — buying from those who create these conditions merely serves to reward them for their bad behavior.

Adopting is preferable for a number of reasons. By adopting from a public shelter, you are saving one dog’s life and freeing up space for another dog to get a second chance. When you adopt from a rescue or private shelter, the process is far more rigorous. These organizations want to ensure that dogs are going to the right people, so they will make sure that you are paired with a dog that fits your personality and lifestyle. The other option is to find a reputable breeder.

Not considering the dog’s energy level beforehand
Often, people fall in love with adorable, spunky little pups who seem like a lot of fun… only to later realize that their dog doesn’t have an “off” switch and they just can’t keep up. Alternatively, very active people probably don’t want low-energy or older dogs who won’t be able to keep up with them. It’s important that the new dog’s energy level is the same or lower than yours or your household’s.

Insisting on adopting a puppy
If you plan to adopt a puppy, make sure you do your homework and learn how to raise one properly. Puppies come with many challenges that adult dogs generally don’t, especially if you work with the right organization to find the best adult match for you.

For example, you won’t necessarily know about possible problem behaviors until the pup grows up. And of course, there’s housebreaking. It’s a sad but true fact of life, but most dogs that are abandoned by their owners to shelters are between a year and a year-and-a-half old, which is the point when un-corrected puppy behaviors go from being cute to destructive.

Don’t rule out the idea of adopting an adult dog. Or you may even want to consider a senior, since they can be lower energy, which means they may require less of an abrupt lifestyle change on your part.

Not spaying and neutering
Most people know this by now, but it is vital that you spay or neuter your dog. We have an epidemic of homeless dogs in this country, and the systems we have in place can’t keep up with it. Do your part. Spay or neuter your dog.

Not fulfilling your dog’s needs for exercise, discipline, and affection
Whether your dog is incredibly high-energy or a lump that prefers to lay around, he needs structure to stay balanced. What this means can vary from breed to breed and dog to dog, but you always need to provide exercise, discipline, and affection. And stay consistent. For best results, you should have a schedule for your dog’s meals, work, and playtime — and always take your pup for at least two long walks each day.

Neglecting vet appointments
It’s really easy to skip a vet appointment or two, especially if you’re the type of person who isn’t all that great at taking care of your own health. But going to the vet regularly can be a life or death matter. Otherwise, your dog can miss out on shots that protect her from a variety of diseases and conditions. And regular checkups are also important for catching potential problems before they become too serious.

Skipping obedience training
If you neglect to teach your dog proper obedience, you’re setting yourself up for a world of frustration — and may even increase the likelihood that your dog is put in mortal danger.

How so? Simply put, dogs that haven’t gone through obedience training won’t listen, and they won’t understand what you want from them. This can be a huge problem the third time they chew through your new couch or if their natural inclination when meeting other dogs is to charge over and start barking. The best time to train your dog is when they are younger and more receptive — but don’t forget that old dogs can learn new tricks, too.

Not microchipping the dog
Why microchip? Because dogs can get away from even the most watchful Pack Leader. If your dog is microchipped, whoever finds him can have him quickly scanned to find out exactly where he came from and how to return him to you.

Feeding human food
It may seem harmless to offer your dog scraps from the table or feed him a portion of what you’re eating. But this can cause huge problems.

First off, there are a number of “people foods” that actually make dogs really sick — and in some cases can even kill them. Moreover, it’s not good for dogs to eat many of the spices and other things that we add to our foods. If you are going to give human food to your dog, make sure you do your research and talk to your veterinarian.

Failing to consistently exude calm-assertive energy around the dog
Imagine your dog keeps pulling on the leash when you go for walks, or really likes pooping in the corner of your bedroom. If you’re like a lot of people, your first inclination may be to yell or punish the dog to teach her that she did something wrong.

But when you let your emotions get out of control, it’s a signal to your dog that you might not be the calm, assertive Pack Leader she needs. Not only does this kind of freak-out not teach them what you want, it can cause them to assert themselves even more to replace you as Pack Leader or to look elsewhere for that leadership.

Obviously, these are not the only mistakes dog owners make. What are some problems that you have seen — or that you had to learn by experiencing them yourself? Let us know in the comments!

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Too often, people adopt a dog because it is “cute” or “fashionable” rather than based on the merits of its behavior and energy levels. In these situations, the dog may be returned to the dog rescues, shelter, kennel, or breeder, and each return is a black mark on that dog’s record. It suggests that the dog is un-adoptable, and the more often a dog is returned, the more likely it is to eventually be euthanized.

Choosing the Best Dog That Matches your Energy

Evaluate your Own Energy Level

When selecting a new dog, it is vitally important to take into account how that dog’s energy will harmonize with your own. The most important step is to take some time for self-reflection and to identify what your own energy levels are. Do you wake up early every morning, pound a power bar and a health shake, and go for a run in the mountains? Or do you take life at a more leisurely pace? When energy levels conflict, resulting frustrations on the part of both human and dog can create tensions and issues with dramatic repercussions, so take into account how your energy will affect your decision.

Dog Breeds and Energy

Once you’ve identified your own energy levels, begin your research on dog breeds and their energy levels. Remember, dog breeds don’t necessarily dictate its personality, but some dog breeds are known for having a certain energy or disposition. Once you’ve done your breed research, you can begin your search for a dog with a few ideas in mind. It never hurts to be prepared.

Dogs in Cages

If you decide to begin looking at shelters and dog rescues, keep in mind that a dog in a cage at a shelter will be difficult to appraise in terms of its level of energy. Dogs in cages for any significant length of time can be frustrated and edgy. It may help to have a professional or someone with some expertise assist you in gauging your potential dog’s energy levels.

Questions to Ask

Don’t be afraid to ask the rescue staff about the dog. They aren’t concerned with getting dogs out the door at any cost – most are dedicated to finding good homes for the dogs in their care – so you can be pretty confident that they’ll give you the straight story. Find out what the dog is really like and how he gets along with the staff and the other dogs. How does he act at mealtimes? What is he like when people come by to view the other dogs? The answers to questions like these will give you a better idea of what he will be like with you and your family at home.

Take the Dog for a Walk

The dog walk is an excellent litmus test for a new dog. Find out from the shelter if you can “test drive” the dog that you’re interested in. Take him out for a spin around the block and see how the two of you get along. Not only will you get an early idea of how you work together in a pack-oriented activity, but you’ll get a better understanding of his underlying temperament once you’ve drained away the frustration and pent-up energy he has from being in his cage.

Most importantly, do your best to leave your emotions at the door. You will have plenty of time to bond with your new dog once you’ve brought him home and incorporated him into your family. For his sake and yours, try not to let the environment of the shelter and the weight of the decision influence you to adopt a dog. Dog rescues can be heart-breaking places if your thoughts are focused on the fate of every single dog present. It’s crucial for you to choose the right dog, and not just one that you feel sorry for. Feeling pity for a homeless dog won’t benefit him or you in the long run.

Keep an open mind, do your research, and have patience! In the end, you’ll both be better off for it.

Does your dog’s energy level match yours? Tell us all about it in the comments.

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Are you thinking of welcoming a new dog into your pack? If so, one of the first decisions to make is whether you’d like to adopt a puppy or an adult.

There really is nothing quite as adorable as a puppy. Cute, cuddly, and full of affection, the gaze from a puppy’s big, round eyes can melt any heart. If you adopt a puppy, expect to spend a lot of time with them during their first year of life. You’ll need to care for their every need, teach them how to behave, and show them where to spend their time. As they grow up, you’ll help mold their personality and behavior.

An adult dog can be a delight, too. If you adopt an adult dog, you’ll skip the awkward (and sometimes destructive!) puppy developmental stages, like teething and potty training. Depending on their history and whether they’ve been trained, you may not need to send them to basic obedience class or housetrain them. After they get used to your family’s new routine, they will simply be ready to be your constant companion.

Choosing between a puppy and adult can be a challenging task for any dog lover. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.

Before Making a Decision, Ask Yourself These Questions

Do You Have the Time to Dedicate to Raising and Training a Puppy?

A puppy requires constant supervision during the first few months of life. You’ll need to take them outside every few hours (at least) to relieve themselves. You’ll need to make sure they’re staying out of trouble. And you’ll need to take them to regular obedience training classes to give them a solid foundation in good behavior. If you work at home or have some flexibility with your schedule, a puppy is for you! If not, consider an adult dog that has been housetrained and is able to mind their manners while you’re away.

Is Your Lifestyle Conducive to Raising a Dog?

Are you a stay-at-home person or a busy out-and-about person? Pet owners who prefer to stay at home rather than go out are a step ahead when it comes to raising a puppy, as toting around a tiny ball of fur isn’t always an easy task – and dogs (even adorable puppies) aren’t welcome everywhere. If you have a busy social schedule that doesn’t allow for puppy raising, consider an adult who is already trained.

Is it Important That You Raise the Dog Yourself?

When you raise your own puppy, you help to form its personality and behavior. When you adopt an adult dog, their personality is already established and they may have some behavior issues left over from their previous owner. If you want to mold your pup to fit into your family from day one, definitely choose a youngster who you can watch grow up.

Do You Have Children?

If you have a baby or young toddler in your family, you may want to wait a few years before adopting a dog (puppy or adult), as curious kids can accidentally harm the dog – and vice versa. Older, responsible children, however, can help with the chores associated with both raising a puppy and caring for an adult (with your supervision, of course). If you choose an adult dog, make sure they have been raised around kids and will be tolerant of playful children.

Is Cost an Issue?

Though both puppies and adults each have costs associated with them, the purchase price of a purebred puppy is often hundreds of dollars more than that of adults or rescues. If price is an issue, consider adopting.

These questions are only a few that you should ask yourself and your family before deciding on an adult or a puppy. Also consider your experience in raising a puppy, the current – and future – makeup of your family, and the activity level of your household. Keep in mind that although puppies are adorable, many adult dogs are looking for homes, too!

How old was your dog when you adopted her? Tell us all about it in the comments

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Lifestyle

All dogs love physical activity and enjoy the outdoors, but your family has to be to be able to provide a certain amount of activity for certain dogs. Although a lot of children say that they like physically active dogs like Dalmatians, they actually require at least an hour of exercise every day. Children who are engaged in sports and outdoor activities will enjoy active dogs, but if they tend to stay in the house then they should probably find a dog with a similar temperament.

Living Situation

The type of dog you select will greatly depend on the type of living situation that you and your family have. Larger breeds like Labrador retrievers, German shepherds, and St. Bernards tend to be more suitable for people that own their own homes and have a significant amount of space for them to play and exercise. Ideally, larger dogs should live in pet friendly communities that offer a lot of parks and open spaces. People that live in apartments or urban areas should strongly consider smaller breeds like a Welsh corgi or beagle because they are more tolerant of being indoors. Another factor to consider is the type of climate you live in, because some dogs tend to be better suited for colder or warmer weather. Breeds like pugs and bulldogs tend to have respiratory problems when it comes to hot weather.

<h2allergies< h2=””>Another thing to consider before purchasing a dog is that some members of the family may have allergies. Any dog could trigger allergies, but there are few breeds like the Maltese, Portuguese water dog, or Shih Tzu that tend to be easier to manage for people who have allergies. Consult with your family doctor before selecting a dog if one of your children has allergies.

Grooming and Care

All dogs require proper care and grooming on a regular basis, but some breeds need more than others. Dogs that have long or curly coats may need to be groomed several times a week, which is generally not the level of care that most children can provide. It is better to stick with dogs that have shorter coats and require less maintenance if the children will be the ones taking care of the dog. Some of the older dogs or younger puppies may require some extra care and attention as well which may not be appropriate for children.

Affordability

The cost of a dog is a lot more than the price you will pay for purchasing the dog. As a family, you will have to know how much money you can spend on the dog every month. Large breeds tend to be more expensive because they eat more food, their healthcare costs are more expensive, and they can be more difficult to accommodate as some apartments do not accept them. Smaller breeds also require certain expenditures, but generally not as much as the larger breeds. Purebred dogs not only cost more money up front, but they are usually the dogs that have genetic predispositions to certain types of health problems, while mixed breeds are not as susceptible. Either way, calculate the cost of the dog’s grooming, healthcare, and food to get an idea of what you will actually spend on the dog.

Temperament

Purebred dogs will normally exhibit the same traits as other dogs in their breed while mixed breeds will usually have traits found in both breeds. The dog should have a similar temperament to your family in order to have the best match. Outgoing and gregarious children will do better with dogs that also tend to be more friendly and approachable, while more reserved children will do better with dogs of a similar cautious mindset. The entire family should meet the dog and see if they might be compatible before making the final decision.

Choosing a dog, especially one intended for your children, should be a decision you make with their input. Sit down with them and discuss what types of breeds will be suitable and let them know the level of care and commitment that you will expect from them. Think about what type of lifestyle you have as well as what your children are able to manage along with their schooling and extracurricular activities. Given that everyone’s situation is different, there will not be one type of dog that will be suitable for every family.

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Which dog is coming home with you? When you look at the faces in the image on this page, were you drawn more to some than others?

According to new research, you are more likely to go for dogs that have raised inner brows, which results in widened eyes. The University of Portsmouth and the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition conducted a lengthy experiment to determine which dogs were more likely to be rehomed from a shelter. And what they discovered was that those that make “puppy dog eyes” are much more likely to be adopted.

Dr. Bridget Waller and Dr. Juliane Kaminski, from Portsmouth University’s Department of Psychology, used new technology that let them analyze the facial expressions of dogs. They studied the number of times dogs in a shelter raised their inner eyebrows when a prospective owner approached and found that dogs that did it often attracted new owners more quickly.

The Experiment

To make sure that other factors weren’t in play, all 27 dogs in the study were Staffordshire bull terriers or mastiffs, all between seven months and eight years old. The team looked at every muscle movement in the faces the dogs made when someone came and stood in front of their pens.

Dr. Kaminski, who is one of the world’s best known experts on dog cognition, thinks that this new research may also offer a clue about the domestication of wolves. She said, “Little is known about the early domestication of wolves. It is clear that specific physical features were actively selected as wolves were domesticated to become dogs, but other features may have also been selected unconsciously.”

Did early humans subconsciously find wolf-dogs with childlike facial features more appealing? Domestic dogs are much closer to wolf puppies than full grown wolves, but scientists believe this came about because humans were actively selecting against aggression in wolves. But the new research suggests that the childlike facial features may also have been preferred.

“It is highly likely that dogs with these facial expressions do not make a better pet than those who do not widen their eyes, but this superficial trait is still preferred over other traits, such as tail wagging.”

However you look at it, it doesn’t take a scientist to tell us how appealing those big puppy dog eyes are!

Does your dog have “puppy dog eyes” and were they a factor when you decided to adopt? Tell us in the comments!

The post Who Would You Take Home? appeared first on Cesar's Way.

When you adopt, you’re making a commitment to provide for that dog’s needs for its lifetime. It shouldn’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision, and it’s best if you actually discuss it with your partner instead of trying to spring the puppy as a surprise. Finding the right fit should involve both of your input — and not just guesswork about what your partner may or may not want in a canine companion.

Sad that it will spoil the surprise? It doesn’t have to. You can wrap up many other items that will still get your partner just as excited about the new addition: a photo of a puppy that you’re considering, a collar, a gift certificate to a local shelter, and even a bag of dog treats.

In fact, part of your Valentine’s Day together can involve heading out to select the right match! Here are some tips for how to choose a dog as a couple.

Share What Traits You Want in a Dog

This is always a good first step. You may find that you both have very different ideas of what adopting a puppy or dog would mean. Maybe one of you wants a small companion to cuddle up with while watching TV at night, and the other is looking for a large hiking partner. You may have to make compromises to find the right pup, so come up with a wish list together.

Discuss Caring for the Dog

Who will walk the dog, and when? How will you pay for medical expenses that come up? Will you have a professional groom the dog or do it yourself? These are the kinds of details to work out now for a smoother transition.

Consider Both of Your Energy Levels

It’s important that you and your partner are able to establish yourself as a pack leader to this new pup, and that’s a lot easier to accomplish if the dog has a similar or lower energy level than each of you. Your dog should be compatible with whichever of you has a lower energy level.

Do Your Research

Even if you don’t want a purebred, understanding the traits and special needs of different breeds can help make the selection process easier. Many dogs available at dog rescues and shelters may be of multiple breeds, so take the time to look up all possible breeds just to get a sense. You can even do this onsite if you have a mobile phone.

Take the Dog for a Walk

It’s likely when you initially meet a dog you are considering that he has been cooped up in a kennel or crate for a while. This can make it hard to get to know the dog’s energy level, but one good place to start is with a nice walk. Both of you should take turns holding the leash, and take note if the dog behaves differently with one of you.

Revisit That Wish List

Even if it’s not Valentine’s Day, it’s easy to fall in love with a pup that’s not the right fit for you. So take a step back, and read that wish list you developed together. Does this dog match your needs and wants? Certainly, your emotions play a role in the process of dog adoption, but they shouldn’t be the primary force. Stay objective, and remind yourself that if you don’t find the right dog today, that’s okay. You can come back in a week or visit another organization. It’s better for all three of you if you don’t rush into the wrong decision.

Is your dog a rescue? Share a photo of the furry love of your life here.

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