I'm looking to buy a dog but I don't know what breed to get. Any
suggestions? Thank you.

On 22 Dec 2004 22:19:20 -0800 whittled these words:
I'm looking to buy a dog but I don't know what breed to get. Any
suggestions? Thank you.

In choosing a dog the most important part is that you match the dog. So
the first step is to get a good handle on what are the qualities you want,
and what you want to avoid.

One part of that is to decide your expectations of the dog. Is it going
to become a focus in your life? Some people like spending most of their
time including their dog - so they enjoy going for long walks, playing in
park, teaching the dog tricks, throwing a ball, ... Other people are
looking at a close but more sedate relationship - cuddling on the sofa,
grooming, casual strolls around the neighborhood. Some people prefer a
dog that is eager to please, and pretty much does as they are told. Other
people like to see the gleam of independence that says "Tell me why I
should"

You need to think about your social life and how the dog will fit in. A
lot of people love the idea of a dog, but not the reality of a dog. It
sometimes turns out that they expect the dog to be a ready source of
comfort when THEY want, but they really don't have time for the dog's
needs. So will the kind of dog you choose fit into your life? A
stand-offish dog that doesn't warm up to strangers is perfect for some
people, but a super friendly type is the right stuff for others.

If this is your first dog you will probably find it useful to skip the
puppy stage and start with an adult. The adult dog will have a level of
maturity that makes your learning curve easier. Also you are more likely
to be able to evaluate whether the dog will truely suit you.

If you plan on getting involved in dog sports you might prefer purebred
dog, but if your focus is just the right fit then many a mixed breed can
be your ideal companion.

Start here
http://www.dog-play.com/choosing.html
to get some tips and book references. That will help you avoid the kind
of situations that cause so many dogs to end up homeless.

Then a great place to look for your perfect match is
http://www.petfinder.org/

--
Diane Blackman
http://dog-play.com/
http://dogplay.com/Shop/