Choosing a dog
Use your Head and your Heart

For many people choosing a car would be a more important decision than choosing a dog.

Hopefully if you are reading this, you are planning on being a responsible pet owner.

Don't be swept away by a cute little puppy, that puppy is going to go through some rough patches, when you are going to need a lot of patience. Those sweet puppies grow up and sometimes they are not what you expected.

Small dog breeds are generally cheaper than large dog breeds, is this something you need to consider when choosing a dog?

Step by step, we'll help you discover whether you are ready for a dog (or puppy) and then more importantly which breed will suit your lifestyle. All too often, a dog is discarded at the shelters for no other reason than the owners discovered that the lap dog needed a lot of attention, was too hairy or simply needed exercise as all dogs do.

Please consider all aspects of dog ownership not just the excitement of the new addition to your family, our wet nosed friends needs must be your first consideration when choosing a dog breed.

Read thoroughly our small dogs breed information before deciding as every breed has Health issues, some more than others.

Do you want a dog, to teach your children to be responsible?  Is it a cute gift? Or is this something that your family wants to embrace as part of your family for many years to come. You should only contemplate choosing a dog, when you are absolutely sure you have the time and commitment for your new best friend.

Are you looking for an energetic dog or a laid back couch potato?  If you are elderly and cannot participate in activity with your new best friend, consider an older dog or a low activity pet (such as a Pug or a King Charles Cavalier) when choosing a dog. Or do you want to go jogging each morning, then a choose a breed such as a Poodle or Fox Terrier.  Some small dog breeds like the Boston Terrier or French Bulldog are not suitable for high activity and some MUST be exercised daily.

Your home and garden size can eliminate some breeds as unsuitable. Many large breeds also do not need a large garden, likewise not all lap dogs are suitable for an apartment. Our small dog breeds information covers this.  Should you be able to regularly exercise your dog then a small yard is acceptable.  Likewise you may have a large garden but you still need to stimulate your pooch. Cute dogs maybe, but they take time and effort so be prepared to give them the attention they deserve. You will be rewarded with unconditional love and a devoted happy pet.

The cost of your new pet does not stop at the breeder or the store where you bought your little fluff ball.  You'll have many years of monthly and annual expenses. Be sure you can afford your pet. Puppy Cost discusses not just the cost of food but other expenses that you will incur when you buy a dog or a puppy.

One of the most important aspects of owning a dog is the time you have for grooming.  Not just brushing and combing, but picking up their "poop", Vacuming the home and clipping nails and cleaning ears, etc. You may have time to do daily brushing or possibly you want a pet which needs minimal grooming.

Pet Insurance is always recommended for inevitable veterinary bills.  Each breed of dog comes with their own health issues and it is part and parcel of owning a beloved pet, who is now a member of your family. You have medical aid so should your new 4 legged baby.

Not all dogs are suitable for very young children.  A dog bite can mean having to get rid of your pet, when in fact it is not his fault.  It would be your responsibility to protect your pet from unruly children. Some of the small dog breeds, ideally bond with one person so if you are a single or elderly person you would choose accordingly. Many of our popular small dog breeds are highly suited as a therapy dog. Check out our breeds "character" pages.

All puppies need to be taught what is expected of them.  They are unable to guess what their human parents want them to do.  Their behavior is your responsibility. No one likes an unruly dog, when they are puppies and jump up that's considered cute but when they grow up they will be banished to the back garden, when they should be part of the family. It is essential that you become the leader of the pack.  Training your little friend is essential for a happy pet and a happy owner. Puppy school and socialising your pet is required and this also needs your commitment of time and money.

Most small dog breeds have a long lifespan of between 14 to 16 years.  So you need to consider this fact of life.  Your dog will need to be cared for should you pass before he does.  You need to have a plan in place, and consider the expense to the new adoptive family.

If someone in your family is hypo allergenic, you should consider one of our hypo allergenic dog breeds such as Bichon Frise or Chihuahua which are more suitable for this allergic condition. A dog is for life and should you encounter problems a few months after your bring your puppy home, you would be faced with a terrible decision with the puppy usually coming off second best. Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds offer some small dog breeds most suitable for those who have dog allergies.

Choosing a dog or a Puppy -Think before leap

If small dog breeds are not suitable for your lifestyle, why don't you consider a kitty cat.  They make very loving pets and don't need much exercising, but do need lots of love and grooming.

A website offering information:   Cat Breeds Junction on all breeds of cats.

Go from  Choosing a Dog to  About Small Dog Breeds Home Page

More about:

• Choosing a Dog - Life Changing Decision
• Kittens and Puppies - Can't decide .. Get both!
• Adult dog - Will you still love me?