Roughly 45% of American households have invited a dog into their homes, likely because pet ownership can be so fulfilling and rewarding ¹. Pets give us unconditional love, protect us, and provide companionship. Many of us have fond memories of growing up with a canine best friend; however, getting a dog is a serious responsibility and is not a decision you should make lightly.

About 3.1 million dogs enter shelters yearly in the U.S. alone ². While some reasons for their surrender are unexpected, the majority of reasons include behavioral issues, many of which could have been avoided had the owner done the proper research on the breed before they brought them home. Understanding your commitment to a new dog is imperative. With that said, let’s review everything that you should consider when choosing which dog breed is right for you.

The 15 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed

1. Time Considerations and Constraints

Time issues are one of the most common reasons that people relinquish dogs, meaning novice pet owners may not have anticipated how much time having a pup requires. Canines aren’t like felines in that you can often leave them alone for several hours and they’ll do a decent job at taking care of themselves (so long as they have food, water, and a clean litter box).

That means you can’t just decide to go out after work if someone in your household isn’t around to take the dog out or feed them, which makes it more challenging for individuals to have a pet. While you can crate train a dog, it isn’t fair to make leaving them alone for extended periods a part of their daily routine. Factoring into this are that some dog breeds require more time with you than others or they may suffer from separation anxiety. So, if you need to be gone for long periods during the day, an affectionate and loyal breed like a Lab may not be the best fit.

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2. Financial Matters

Dogs cost money, plain and simple. There’s the price you must pay to buy or adopt a pet, but the cost doesn’t end there. According to a Synchrony study, you can expect to dish out between $1,270 to $2,803 annually on a dog ³. That adds up to an average lifetime cost of between $19,893 to $55,132. Food will likely make up the bulk of your expenses, with larger dogs requiring more food and therefore more cost. If finances are a concern, smaller breeds may be less expensive in the food category.

Veterinary care is another vital consideration. A dog needs annual exams to monitor their health, update vaccinations, and receive preventatives for internal and external parasites. Pets may also sometimes need emergency care, which can cost you over $150 just to walk in the door of an after-hours clinic. Fortunately, pet insurance can help with some unexpected expenses. However, understanding your financial commitment is essential before you ever even consider bringing a dog home with you.

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3. Commitment to Training and Socialization

You may find owning a dog is like having a toddler in the house. Research has shown they have the emotional capacity of a 2.5-year-old child. That also means dogs require a commitment to training and socialization. You must introduce your pup to new experiences to prevent fearfulness in them, and you must also train your pooch and nurture their canine manners. All of that takes time and effort.

This responsibility is your duty as a pet owner and member of your community. No one likes a nuisance dog, and remember that bad behavior can have legal implications, depending on the behavior and where you live. So, everyone in your household must be on board with training to ensure consistency. If you don’t have a lot of time or experience training and socializing a dog, it may be best to steer clear of breeds prone to aggression or behavioral issues, such as Dalmatians or Dachshunds.

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4. Housing Issues

Housing issues are another common reason for pet relinquishment. It can be something as blatant as a no-pet policy at an apartment building, but it can also mean restrictions on the size of your dog. Some HOAs forbid specific breeds. Although well-meaning, these rules punish responsible pet owners and fail to address the real problem—irresponsible individuals.

We recommend checking with your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy. Some companies have similar restrictions on coverage, and it’s better to be safe than sorry when a simple phone call can give you the answers you need to know before getting a dog.

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5. Exercise Needs

Dogs need daily exercise, and letting them out in your backyard often isn’t enough to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. This can encourage boredom and unwanted behaviors, such as barking or digging. Breeds vary in their energy levels, and you should research this information before you decide on a particular dog and if you’re capable of giving them the exercise they require.

After all, it’s also an excellent way for you and your pet to maintain a healthy weight. Daily walks, for example, offer opportunities for your pup to socialize with other pets and people, and it’s also a great time to practice their leash manners. So, if you can’t do this, then you’re better off not getting a dog at all, or perhaps a breed with far less physical and mental stimulation requirements.

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6. Kid and Family-Friendly Qualities

Some breeds are better suited to households with children, and these dogs tend to be more patient and tolerant of kids. Research has shown that children under 6 are less adept at reading canine emotions. Therefore, supervising playtime is imperative until they get older. That also means additional time constraints for you, which you should consider.

Some breeds are more protective than others. That’s a good thing if you’re looking for a guardian or watchdog. However, while some dogs are loyal, they may also be wary of strangers or intolerant of other pets. Of course, early socialization and training can help mitigate these issues.

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7. Canine Intelligence

Dogs are intelligent animals. Think of all the problem-solving tasks they had to perform before domestication to survive! These skills didn’t go away just because humans started caring for them. Many breeds have instinctive behaviors they do on autopilot, while others can readily learn new things. The fact remains that canines need mental stimulation and enrichment for their well-being.

Breeds vary in their intelligence. Research has shown the Border Collie, Poodle, and German Shepherd Dog as the top canines in the smarts department. Smart pups can become bored without mental stimulation, whether through walks or interactive play. These pets can become destructive if you don’t give them something to do, so it’s a vital consideration when choosing a breed and balancing it with your time commitment.

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8. Health Issues

Breeds vary in their propensity for various health issues. Many factors play a role, including selective breeding. For example, because of this trait, brachycephalic dog breeds or dogs with short faces, such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, are more susceptible to respiratory problems. Likewise, large breeds also have their own problems, such as bloat or hip dysplasia.

Buying from a seller who conducts pre-breeding health screenings is essential. You should ask to see the parents’ testing results of any puppy you’re interested in getting. Other issues plaguing dogs regardless of size include orthopedic diseases and eye conditions, making checking the histories vital. If your dog is prone to certain health conditions, then understand that these could be costly to treat down the line.

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9. Size

Size is an issue on both ends of the spectrum. Small breeds mature quicker, and tend to live longer, making them a lifetime commitment. Large dogs may not live as long, but they can be more expensive to care for and feed. Other considerations exist with the housing issues we’ve discussed, like if your apartment has a weight restriction or whether you have enough space for your dog to move around comfortably. You should also reflect on your ability to handle a big canine, and that applies to your children, too.

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10. Bonding Potential

We’ve discussed the loyalty of some breeds. It’s common for some animals to bond especially closely with people, which can affect the dog’s behavior regarding their protectiveness. Some breeds are more aloof and aren’t as cuddly as others. Therefore, you should think about what you expect from your pet to guide you to an appropriate choice for your lifestyle.

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11. Training Issues

Herding breeds and dogs used for pest control, like terriers, often have an independent streak that comes from working alone at their historical jobs. They can be challenging to train for first-time pet owners. Some dogs may have a greater propensity for nippiness, wanderlust, or a higher prey drive. Many of these behaviors are innate. Nevertheless, you should know what to expect with specific breeds.

The parent clubs are an excellent place to start. Many organizations are quite candid about the homes best suited to the breed. After all, they have the dogs’ best interests at heart. It’s far better to pass on a particular breed type than bring home a pet that isn’t a fit for your household or lifestyle.

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12. Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is vital when you get a dog if just to keep the animal updated on their rabies vaccination. Fulfilling this need touches on your time and financial commitment to owning a pet. Be realistic about your choice. Checking the breed’s history can give you a good idea about any potential health issues. You’ll find your vet is a valuable resource for advice about the care of your new pup.

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13. Breed Temperament

Breed temperament is critical in choosing which is suitable for you. Dogs vary in their sensitivity and tolerance of being alone. Some are easygoing and not excitable, whereas others make everything a drama. Some are playful and intense, while others are couch potatoes. Remember that some behaviors are instinctive, but the environment and the animal’s upbringing can also shape their temperament.

We suggest considering what traits are deal-breakers and dealmakers for your situation. Use this information to make a shortlist of breeds worth considering. Observing a puppy with their mother and littermates can offer valuable clues about their temperament. Dogs have distinct personalities that show themselves early in their growth and development.

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14. The Breed’s Physical Traits

You should also research the physical traits of the various breeds. For example, some, like Samoyeds, shed a lot, whereas Poodles won’t shed much at all. Likewise, some dogs, such as St. Bernards, drool, whereas you won’t need to carry a towel with you if you get a Beagle or Bichon Frise. Some disreputable breeders may say their pups are hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, these animals don’t exist, and that claim is a myth. But if you have allergies, some breeds may be better suited for you than others.

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15. Household Compatibility

Finally, one of the most important factors when deciding on a breed is the animal’s compatibility with your household. We’ve talked about several considerations that may strike some pups off your list. However, we recommend careful thought on this matter. Be honest about what you can bring to pet ownership and what your expectations are. The pooch’s cuteness shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

We also suggest discussing your decision with family members. Figure out who will care for your new pet. Everyone must be on the same page for training, feeding, and exercising your pup. Remember that a dog brings new responsibilities to your household, so ensure these needs are covered.

While a dog’s breed can shape a lot about their personality, it’s important to remember that all dogs are individuals and may veer from what is normal for their breed. Because of this, it’s important to not only consider a dog’s breed but also the individual dog. Most breeders and shelters will offer a trial period where you can have a test run with a specific dog to make sure they’re a good fit without committing to them upfront.

Conclusion

Getting a dog is a life-changing experience. The right dog will bring much joy to your home, while the wrong dog could result in relinquishment. Researching breeds is essential since they vary widely in their temperament, energy levels, and traits. It’s a serious decision and one that requires honesty and careful consideration.

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Featured Image Credit: SpeedKingz, Shutterstock