Deciding to get a dog for the first time is a big and exciting decision. And once that decision is made, the next one comes: which breed should you choose? There are hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, and each breed has its own unique traits and needs. To help you on your way, we have gathered the most important factors to consider.
The choice of breed should be based on your lifestyle, your interests and what you can offer the dog. Do not choose a breed just because it is cute. Take the time to read up on different breeds and their traits and needs. Talk to breeders and other owners of the breed to gain insight and advice, and try to meet a few dogs of the breed you are interested in to get a feel for whether it suits you. The more you know about the breed, the better you can make an informed decision.
Large or small breed?
The choice between a large and a small breed comes down largely to your own preferences, but it can be good to think through the pros and cons. A larger dog requires more space and more food. All dogs, regardless of size, should be trained to be able to stay calmly around other dogs and people, but a larger breed can place higher demands on you as an owner to handle. To a large extent it is your lifestyle that decides. Do you want a small dog that easily fits in a bag on the train, or a larger dog that can be trained to run alongside the bike or pull you along the ski track?
Active life or calmer breed?
Your own activity level and what you want to do with your dog is an important factor. If you are an active person who likes to run, hike and be outdoors, a more exercise-demanding breed may suit you. If you would rather have a dog that can join you at a cafe and take a long walk now and then, a calmer breed may be a better choice. Remember, though, that both small and large breeds, and both active and calmer dogs, benefit from being on the move. Regardless of breed, you should be prepared to give the dog plenty of exercise and activity.
The dog needs to be activated not only physically but also mentally, for example through obedience training, search exercises or other activities. Dogs have a need to use their body, their nose and their brain, and some breeds have a greater need for this than others. Breeds bred specifically for search, hunting, herding or other work have a strong need to do exactly that. Consider what kind of life you can offer the dog, and choose a breed based on the needs you can actually satisfy.
Time and money for good health and care
Also review your finances. It is not just the dog itself that costs money, but also food, insurance and veterinary care. Once you have started to take an interest in a particular breed, it is wise to read up on the breed's health situation and check what the insurance costs. Breeds that are more often affected by injuries or illnesses are more expensive to insure. To increase the chance of getting a healthy and thriving dog, choose a healthy breed from a serious breeder who breeds from healthy parents. Also be prepared that, even with insurance, you need to have the time and money to give the dog the care it needs, whether it comes to coat care, dental care or other grooming.
Personality
Many dog owners match, consciously or unconsciously, the dog's personality with their own, and here too a lot comes down to preferences. It can be good to think carefully: who are you and what are you looking for in a dog? Do you want a social dog that loves everyone and happily joins in every context, or a dog that attaches to you but is more uninterested in others? Are you a firm and self-assured person who wants a dog with high integrity and good self-confidence, or do you prefer a really close cooperation with a softer breed that wants to please?
Choosing the right dog breed is a personal process that should be based on your lifestyle and what you can offer the dog. Take the time to read up on different breeds and think carefully before you take the step. With the right breed choice you get a dog that suits your life and your personality, to the joy of you both.
Want to read more? Take a look at the 8 smartest dog breeds.