What type of dog owner are you and which breeds would enjoy your lifestyle? Andrea McHugh provides some inspiration...
Choosing a dog is something that will impact your life for many years and a variety of factors will influence your decision. These will include the reasons you want a canine companion, your lifestyle, personal circumstances and goals. In this feature we look at six different potential dog owners, with ideas to help find a perfect match.
1. The adventurer!
The adventurer is someone who is fit, active, and enjoys long, invigorating hikes in the countryside. They long for a dog to enjoy the experience with them, and would like a breed that is loyal, athletic, and always happy to walk in different weathers and over different terrain. The walks could involve negotiating gates, walls, and stiles, so a dog that is not too heavy to lift might be a good idea, as you can never tell when a helping hand might be needed! Adventurers often like to camp or stay in different types of accommodation on their travels, so a dog that will happily settle in new environments is a bonus.
Possible breeds to consider:
Border Collie, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Jack Russell Terrier, German Shepherd, Dalmatian, or Vizsla.
Depending on the size of dog you would like, choose a breed that is athletic, versatile, and thrives with an active lifestyle. Jack Russell Terriers are small but mighty, with huge enthusiasm for life, while Dalmatians were originally bred to run alongside carriages so have great stamina and energy. The loyal and protective German Shepherd can make an excellent running partner.
2. Sport stars
Do you dream of competing in canine sports, and even winning on the green carpet at Crufts? Whether it’s agility, heelwork to music, flyball, or canicross, there are activities for everyone, but the right companion is key to success.
Training is essential but some breeds are naturally more inclined to succeed in certain sports. Finding a dog that will enjoy training, can cope in different, often noisy, environments, and has the conformation and health to help reduce risk of injury are all factors to consider.
Possible breeds to consider:
Border Collies love to work and adore challenges. However, they do need training, so be prepared to put the work in to help them reach their potential. Other breeds to consider include an Old English Sheepdog, or if you prefer something smaller but high energy, a Cocker Spaniel.
3. First timer
If you’ve never owned a dog before and have limited knowledge, the temperament of the breed you choose will be incredibly important, particularly if you have children or want children in the future. Other factors to consider are your lifestyle, available space, and how much time you have for grooming, training, and walking.
Possible breeds to consider: Labrador, Golden Retriever, Poodle, Bichon Frise, Shetland Sheepdog, or Shih Tzu. All of these breeds are considered to be relatively easy going, good with children and other dogs, and adaptable. When you do your research consider how much these breeds shed their coats, the grooming they need, and what their energy levels.
4. Canine companion
Do you enjoy your home comforts and want a dog who will happily become your companion? If so, you will need a breed that is relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise and mental stimulation. Getting a high drive dog that constantly needs a job to keep them entertained would not be a good match. Companion dogs still need regular walks to ensure their physical and mental well-being, and owners can often be surprised at how much they add to their social lives as people love talking to dogs. If you like to entertain, you will need a dog with a calm, sunny disposition who will happily welcome visitors to your home.
Possible breeds to consider: Some toy dog breeds can make great companion animals, so check out the Papillon, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Maltese Terrier and the ever-popular miniature and toy Poodles. If you prefer a larger breed, you might find that a Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, or a Staffordshire Bull Terrier could be a good match.
5. City slicker
Being a city dweller does not automatically mean that you can’t own a dog. Large breed, or high energy dogs, will probably not be an ideal match for apartment living, but there are many breeds who could potentially tick the boxes for city life. With the right training and socialisation these dogs can also take experiences such as riding on trains, tubes, and elevators in their stride.
Possible breeds to consider:
Check out breeds that are small in size, love cuddles, and are low maintenance in terms of exercise. A Chihuahua might tick all the boxes, or possibly a Bichon Frise, miniature Poodle, a Dachshund, Pomeranian or a Pekingese.
6. Working wonders
Busy professionals may worry that they will not make a good owner for any kind of dog as they have to go out to work every day. However, with forward thinking, a lunchtime visit, and a willingness to provide your dog with the care and attention he needs throughout the day, you could still enjoy all the love a dog can offer. There’s nothing better than returning home from work to the amazing greeting you will receive from your dog! When you are home, it’s important to spend as much time as possibe with your dog, so the bond between you grows strong.
Possible breeds to consider: Greyhounds can be very loyal and loving, don’t require huge amounts of exercise, and can enjoy relaxing at home after their walk. In addition, check out Miniature Schnauzers, who are small, low-shedding, and adaptable, or a French Bulldog or Basset Hound.