Puppies

Do you want a large dog like a Golden Retriever, Lab, or Boxer or a smaller variety like a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih-Tzu. Would you like a family playmate like a Miniature Pinscher or Pug? How about a watchdog like a Rottweiler, German Shepherd, or Doberman Pinscher? Maybe a hunting dog like a Bloodhound?

Dogs have different exercise levels and needs. Working dogs, like Weimeraners and Australian Cattle Dogs (Blue Heelers) need plenty of exercise and room to run. They are best suited to rural and suburban homes with fenced in back yards or nearby dog parks. If you live in the city or an apartment then the toy or small breeds like Poodles or Yorkies are a good fit. These dogs can even be paper trained and do not need a large areas for exercise. However, every dog needs daily exercise for its own health and happiness.

Do you have an active lifestyle and on the “go” a lot? Do you like to run or hike? If so then a working dog like a Boxer or Labrador Retriever would be a good companion for you. Do you like to be at home a lot and read or watch movies and TV? Then a small or toy breed dog like a Maltese or Pekingese would be a good choice to snuggle up with and watch that movie.

All dogs need some form of grooming or brushing. Long coated and double coated dogs, like Pomeranians and Shetland Sheepdogs tend to shed more than other breeds. Dogs with these types of coats need regular brushing to help prevent tufts of fur landing all over the carpet and also help keep the dogs fur from “matting.” Wire-hair dogs, like cairn Terriers, West Highland Terriers, and Brussels Griffons need brushing to remove dead hair. Some breeds, like Bichons and Shih-Tzus require almost no brushing because they are non-shedding breeds.

If young, then some of the small breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles may not be right for you. These small dogs are not accustomed to the rough and tumble play that smaller children like to have. There are several small breeds that do work well with younger children however and are very strong and “sturdy” dogs, like Miniature Pinscher, Bichon and Rat Terriers.

If so, then several non-shedding, hypo-allergenic dogs would be recommended. These breeds have hair rather than fur and eliminate the dander that can cause allergic reactions. Breeds such as Bichon, Yorkshire Terriers, Shih-Tzu, Maltese, and Coton de Tulear fall into this category.

Would you like a dog that forms a strong bond with you and your family? If so, most breeds fall into this category especially breeds like Dachshunds or Morkies. Are you looking for a strong independent dog like a Siberian Husky or Weimeraner? Some dogs like Basset Hounds and Beagles follow their noses and occasionally be oblivious to humans. Other breeds love to be the center of attention and have affection lavished upon them like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Maltese.