Dog Breeds - Links To Your Lifestyle

---

     Numerous dog breeds exist today. The last reported official recognized breeds were over 900. All dog breeds derive from mixed breeds and it is important to recognize the fact that a purebred can only be called so if it hasn't bred with a different breed for a certain number of generations.

The major few dog breeds have evolved during early civilization, but most modern breeds are relatively new. Choosing a dog breed as a pet is not a straight forward process. Many times, unfortunately, the selection is wrongly made, resulting in the over population of dog centres. What are the main characteristics in choosing the right breed from all the dog breeds?

1. Choose a puppy suited to you and your circumstances, whether you live alone, or with other adults and children.
2. Are you a first-time dog owner or an experienced one?
3. Consider the needs of that particular breed; training, exercising, grooming, etc.
4. The space in your house allocated to the dog. Inside and/or outside living is an important factor.
5. The full size the dog is expected to grow to.
6. The amount of time you will be spending with the dog.
7. Watchdog or friendly dog
8. Allergy to dogs
9. Is the dog going to be left alone or not?

Not all dog breeds are appropriate to your lifestyle. Before determining the breeds you like, make sure the above requisites are considered and adhered to. Doing some research now is very important before you make your final decision.

Of all the factors one needs to consider in choosing a breed, the relationship one is ready to give to his dog is the most important of all. The main purpose of owning a dog could be different. Different dog breeds are ideal for different situations. A dog can be:

1. your family pet for companionship
2. specifically chosen for security
3. used for training, exhibitions and shows
4. utilized for sports, like for example, hunting

It is also ideal to make some good research in order to determine the characteristics of the dog breeds one is interested in. Talking to friends and relatives who had experience with dogs is also an important factor as there is nothing better than hands on experience for these decisions.

As usual, when dealing with pets, especially dogs, the final decision should be taken anonymously and with the help of all the members of the family. The dog breed selected should be one which is in harmony with the characteristics and lifestyle of everyone who is interacting and involved in taking care of the dog.