best dog

Question
Dear Alan,

I would like to know the best kind of dog to have in a flat. It should be quiet, trusting, easy to educate and with a middle size.

Thanks in advance for your help,

Magdalena

Answer
Dear Magdelena,
Thanks for the interesting question! It's refreshing to learn of people who think about breed specific tendencies  before they get a dog. Most people just get one that appeals to them in size and looks!

I can't really give you a straight answer, but I can give you some more things to think about!

Do you want a pup, adolescent or adult dog? The reason I ask is because it's quite a chore raising a pup. House training can be a tremendous problem if you work all day and no one is home to let the pup out.

If you are not set on raising a pup, consider adopting from a shelter. When you pick out a dog that is older, you'll have more information as to how quiet and easy to educate the pup is and you'll know exactly how much space he or she will occupy!

There are many other things to consider, for instance do you or any of your friends have allergies? If so, consider getting a breed that doesn't produce as much dander as most breeds. Search the internet for "Dander AND Dogs" to find out which breeds are better for people who have allergies.

How much time can you spend grooming? Some breeds need to be brushed regularly or their coats becomes tangled. Do you want a dog that must go visit the groomer every 3-4 weeks? Some dogs need regular trips to the groomer (i.e. Poodle), some shed their coats (i.e. Border Collie, Labrador Retrievers)and others have relatively maintenance free coats (i.e. Australian Terrier).

How much exercise can you provide? Dogs that are bred to work or hunt all day (i.e. Border Collie, German Shorthaired Pointer, Springer Spaniel) can become quite a problem if they haven't a good outlet to use up all their energy.

Does it get extremely cold or hot where you live? If your plans include running or jogging with your dog (or any other regular outside exercise activities) you'll need a dog that is well suited for the weather and the exercise.

Will your new dog be interacting with other dogs? Some breeds are more likely to have fights with other dogs (Terriers, Some Bully Breeds) and some breeds are more likely to get along well with other dogs (pack hounds - Beagles).

Health issues are another consideration. If you are choosing a full bred dog, look up common health problems for that breed. Some breeds are more likely to have hip problems, eye problems, et cetera, than others.

If you are buying a pure breed, find out as much as you can about the breeder.  Breeders that have no consideration for health or genetics breed unhealthy dogs.

A very good breeder will almost irritate you with all the questions - because they truly care who gets their pups. If the breeder doesn't ask questions about you, your family, your finances, your schedule, your house, your vet references, et cetera, then the breeder MIGHT NOT be an excellent breeder.

The best breeders have waiting lists and lots of paperwork to fill out before you qualify for one of their pups.

If I were choosing a family dog for romping with the kids, indoors and out, it's tough to beat a Golden Retriever!

Poodles are another good choice - they come in all sizes! Labradoodles are popular here - Poodle Lab cross -  as are Goldendoodles - Golden Retreiver/Poodle cross.

Dr. Bruce Fogle has a neat book out called Dog A Log. It's a concise dog encyclopedia. You might look through it (or any dog encyclopedia) and research the best breed for you.

Breed clubs have lots of information on their web sites. Most even have contact people who will help you determine if their breed is best for your situation.

I hope you find the perfect dog for you! Again, it's nice to hear about someone who thinks before they buy! (smile)

Happy Training!
AT
http://howsbentley.com