Great Family Dogs

When it comes time to add a new family member to your household, choosing a new puppy is very exciting.  Selecting a purebred or mixed breed may take a little more time to decide.  There are arguments for both sides.  Many breeders feel that by getting a purebred, you have a good idea of the animal’s temperament because of the breed’s traits.  Some people feel that with mixed breed dogs, as long as you show them love, they return it twofold.  There is no right or wrong answer to this.  There are wonderful mixed breed and purebred dogs.  Choosing a family dog comes with the responsibility of selecting the right puppy suitable for your family’s lifestyle.  Whether you are thinking of a purebred or a mixed breed, from an animal rescue shelter, you want one suitable for your children.

With a purebred puppy, there are traits such as size, temperament, general disposition and energy requirements, which help when selecting a family pet.  This answers some of the questions about the puppy but each dog has their own individual personality.  There are always exceptions to the breed traits, but in general, it does help you select a suitable match.  If you are considering a purebred puppy, there are breed groups, which help break down the choices available.  These are:

·         The Toy Group – Toy Poodle, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Chinese Crested, Chihuahua, Silky Terrier, Maltese, Miniature Pinscher, Pekingese

·         The Sporting Group – English Springer Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter, Sussex Spaniel, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, Pointer

·         The Hound Group – Afghan Hound, Norwegian Elkhound, Saluki, Beagle, Black and Tan Coonhound, Scottish Deerhound, Dachshund

·         The Working Group – Akita, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Mastiff, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Samoyed, Standard Schnauzer, Samoyed

·         The Terrier Group – American Pit Bull Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Cairn Terrier, Smooth Fox Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier

·         The Non-Sporting Group – American Eskimo Dog, French Bulldog, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, Poodle, Dalmatian, Tibetan Spaniel

          ·         The Herding Group – Australian Cattle Dog, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Bearded Collie, Old English Sheepdog, Border Collie, Canaan Dog

If your family is not worried about the size, trainability or energy level of a dog, there are sweet, good natured, loving puppies and full-grown dogs looking for great homes.  Selecting one from an animal shelter not only saves a dogs life but also brings great joy to your family.  With a lot of love and patience, even a dog with a few bad habits is capable of retraining to become a wonderful, valued family member.

To be a responsible dog owner takes time and dedication.  You are responsible for their heath, happiness, shelter and safety.  Never leave  a dog to tied in your backyard, as they are extremely social animals that are happiest with their owner or family.  Some dogs require a lot of strenuous exercise while others are happy sitting on your lap.  If you like grooming, a longer haired dog is idea while other may prefer a dog that requires brushing once every few weeks.  No matter what puppy or dog you select, love them and they will love you back.

Article by Jason Brooks of OhMyDogSupplies.com, leading provider of dog carriers.