Choosing The Best Family Dog!

Determining Which Type Of Dog Is The Best Family Dog For You

A dog's loyalty, love and respect for his family is undeniable. Unfortunately, all too often the novelty wears off for the family and the dog suffers for it.

Whether It's The First Dog Or You're Introducing Another Dog To The Family

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when deciding to add a dog to the family is that they do it for the children without enforcing responsibility in a positive way.

Don't get a family dog for all the wrong reasons and that includes "just because the kids want one".

Both mom and dad must be in agreement on this issue and agree that the dog is a family member that requires responsibility, love and medical attention like every other family member.

Considerations To Think About Before You Get A Dog

•  Does everyone agree on wanting a family dog and the responsibility that goes along with it? Many people do not realize, but dogs are highly emotional beings and want nothing more than to be a part of the family.
•  We suggest that your new family dog always live indoors and be as much a part of family life as possible. Do you have a fenced yard, it's easier on everyone if the family dog can go outside independently without someone watching him?
•  What about daily walks? Dogs NEED exercise and the back yard is not enough for any family dog.
•  How often will the dog be left alone?

CRATES ARE NEVER MEANT TO BE PERMANENT LIVING QUARTERS FOR A DOG

•  How big is your home? This could help determine what size dog may work best for you. If you live in a small apartment with little room, then obviously a larger dog wouldn't be a good idea. Unfortunately when choosing a dog, many people will base their choice strictly on size regardless if they have the room or not. Large dogs are fun, loyal and make some of the best family dogs.
•  What breed fits your family? Keep in mind that a mixed breed can make one of the best family dogs. We say this because often times if you don't know the breeder of a pure bred dog and the history behind them, their could be issues. If you have your heart set on a pure bred dog, investigate the breeder first. Another great option is to check out breed rescue groups. There are rescue groups for every breed of dog.
•  Where will you purchase your new family dog? By adopting from your local shelter, you are saving a life and making a huge difference in the life of a dog who desperately needs a home. Did you know that puppies sold in pet stores are often bought by pet stores through puppy mills? When you buy these pups, you're supporting a very bad cause.
•  What age will make the best pet for your family? Remember, puppies are alot of work and just like children they will go through many growing stages such as chewing, barking, puppy accidents, etc. Do you have time and patience for it?
•  Don't be dead set against an older family dog. However, an older dog might not be the best family dog for those with young children, depending on age, health and temperament.
•  Determine whose job it is to feed, water, walk and clean up the yard. These are responsibilities that should NEVER be taken lightly.

We recommend that parents do not automatically just pass these responsibilities onto their children, until they are certain that the kids are mature and responsible enough to handle caring for the family dog.

Teach Respect For The Family Dog And All Animals

We all know that children routinely mimic their parents. As role models for children, parents must continuously reinforce kindness and respect for the family dog through their own behavior.

•  Teach that pulling on the ears or tail of the family dog is unacceptable behavior, it hurts the dog. Just as they prefer gentle hugs, so does the family dog.
•  Teach the kids to allow the family dog to eat and sleep in peace.

Remember, it's not so much the breed that determines the best family dogs, but the family that brings out the best in the family dog.