Dogs

You have decided that you are a dog person, and are ready to take the step and choose the canine companion that is right for you. You understand the commitment involved in being a responsible dog owner, and you are ready and willing to do it. Now how do you pick exactly which type of dog is good for you? Keep in mind that choosing a breed with desirable qualities does not mean that you will automatically have your dream dog. Dogs, like people, have individual personalities and quirks- but with patience and dedication, you will be able to foster desirable behaviors in your dog, and discourage negative ones.

When choosing a breed, consider the following:

1. What size of dog are you looking for?
Starting with this question will drastically narrow down your choice of breed.

2. Is shedding a concern?
Some breeds shed more than others. If shedding is a concern, you should look into one of the breeds which shed less.

3. Is it important that your dog be good with children?
While dogs whould always be well-mannered around people, some breeds are not as well suited to dealing with children as others. If you have children, or are planning on having children, make sure that your breed is one that generally does well with kids.

4. How important is the trainability of your dog?
While all dogs can be trained, some dogs are more receptive and capable of advanced obedience training than others.

5. Will your dog be around other animals?
It is true that dogs are pack animals. However, some breeds are more well suited to a solitary lifestyle, and can find it difficult to cope with other animals. If you have additional pets, this should be a consideration.

6. What energy level are you looking for?
Do you want a dog that will go with you on daily jogs? Would you prefer a dog that likes to nap along with you on the couch? Some breeds are always on the go, while others are happier with a more sedate lifestyle. Choose a breed that matches your energy level- otherwise you may run into destructive behavior.

7. Is affordability a concern?
You need to consider not just the purchase price, but feeding, grooming and vet care. Certain breeds are harder and more expensive to maintain than others.

8. Will your dog be left alone for extended periods of time?
While no dog should have to spend repeated, extended periods of time alone, certain breeds can withstand separation from their owners better than others. If you know that you are going to have to leave your dog for long periods, choose a breed that is not as troubled by separation anxiety.

9. Will the climate in your area affect your dog?
Oftentimes dogs were bred in a specific area. Moving them to an area with a drastically different climate can cause health issues. A chihuahua, for example, would not be well-suited to living in a perpetually cold climate.

10. Are there specific health problems with the breed which interests you?
Many breeds have medical issues that are breed-specific concerns. Hip Dysplasia, Cancers, Heart and Eye problems seem to affect certain breeds more than others. Make sure you are well-versed in what to watch for in your dog of choice.

11. Do you want a puppy or an adult dog?
The old adage "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" is completely untrue. Older dogs can make excellent companions, and may not require the same amount of training as a puppy.

Finally, consider that you may not want a pure-bred dog at all. Mixed breed dogs can make incredible companions, are readily available from any shelter, and are sometimes hardier than their purebred cousins.

Dog Humor

Dear Dogs:

When I say to move, it means go someplace else, not switch positions with each other so there are still two dogs in the way.

The dishes with the paw print are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help, because I fall faster than you can run.

I can not buy anything bigger than a king size bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue to sleep on the couch to ensure your comfort. Look at videos of dogs sleeping, they can actually curl up in a ball. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space used is nothing but doggy sarcasm.

When I am playing the pinball machine, jumping up and trying to grab the ball through the glass is not helpful. Barking at me because I'm not helping you achieve your goal does not win you any extra brownie points.

My compact discs are not miniature Frisbees.

For the last time, there is not a secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, try to turn the knob, or get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered. In addition, I have been using bath-rooms for years, canine attendance is not mandatory.

The proper order is kiss me, then go smell other dogs’ butts. I can not stress this enough. It would be such a simple change for you guys to make.

Your Loving Human