A brainstorming of critical characteristics for your pet dog is an invaluable aide to make a good selection. Decisions on size, coat type, potential health problems, temperament, etc., made before you see that litter of pups or visit a pet store will help make a good decision on the animal that will share your home.

What to consider in choosing your pet dog

Size. Generally a large dog is not suitable for an apartment, for elderly owners, or for mild-mannered women. Small dogs may be unsuitable for families with active children or infirm relatives who could trip over a small, bouncy critter.

Coat type. Long coated and double-coated dogs shed, shed, and shed some more, leaving tufts of hair to float about the house and land everywhere.

Brushing is needed to remove the dead hair from wire-coated terriers and poodles, and professional grooming is also necessary to maintain texture and color.

Possible health problems

Large and medium breeds are subject to several joint problems. Many breeds have eye problems, skin disease, and inherent health problems (such as breathing problems in pug faced dogs).

Need for exercise. Some dogs are lethargic and others are very energetic. Active families would be happier with a pet that can jog, hike and play ball. More sedate folks would most likely prefer a quieter animal. Cute as they are, Basset Hounds and Dachshunds are not jogging companions.

Temperament. Police dogs are declared to be tough animals, loyal, aloof, dominant, aggressive to other animals, and often challenging, thus most police dogs go under the supervision of an obedience school.

Deciding on a breed of dog is as important as deciding on the right wardrobe for business and the right school for the kids. A dog is a part of the family for a dozen or more years. The commitment to feed, shelter, and nurture a family friend for that amount of time should be based on rigorous analysis of an appropriate breed for the family circumstances.