Picking the “Right” Dog

Make sure your choice is a perfect fit

Big dog? Little dog? Long hair? Short hair? Personality? There are many things to consider when choosing the “right” dog. Expense is something to consider. All dogs require annual check-ups, vaccinations and licenses, and many need grooming. Also, the cost of food may vary greatly—a Great Dane certainly eats more than a terrier. Of course you have to make sure that dogs are allowed at your place of residence. Check lease and/or association information, and homeowner insurance for breed and size restrictions. “We typically suggest people look closely at temperament and energy level. Do they want a jogging partner or a couch potato?” advises Sarah Wees, shelter manager at Gulf Coast Humane Society. Be sure to consider how much time you spend at home. If you are gone for long periods of time, you might want to choose a cat or another type of pet rather than a dog. Dogs need a yard or nearby place to walk and exercise. Certain breeds, such as border collies and Labrador retrievers, need a lot of exercise. Breeds such as basset hounds need less. “My rat terrier is high energy,” notes David Brown of Cape Coral. Take the pet’s age into consideration. Puppies generally require a lot more time and patience than older dogs. “If you don’t have the time or money to train a puppy, try adopting an older dog that is housebroken,” advises Karen Fordiani, a public information specialist with Lee County Domestic Animal Services. Lastly, keep in mind that all dogs have different temperaments. Some are better than others with children, visitors and other pets. Fordiani also says, “Be sure to give your new pet space, time and patience to adjust to their new surroundings.”

Ann Marie O’Phelan is a Southwest Florida resident and regular contributor to TOTI Media.