Beyond the Cute: How to Choose a Dog Breed That Fits Your Lifestyle (9 Questions You Need to Ask Yourself)

If you love dogs, you’ll understand how strongly I feel about the responsibility that comes with dog ownership.

The last thing you want to do is bring home a puppy just because it has a cute face. Yes, I understand. Puppies are ADORABLE. However, they also come with a unique set of needs, characteristics, and personalities that may not be the right fit for your lifestyle.

Are you considering getting a dog? Whether it’s a puppy or a full-grown rescue, it’s important to do a little soul-searching before committing. Want to learn more? Keep reading!

Caution – You Can’t Mold a Dog to Fit Your Lifestyle!

I’ve known people who have chosen dogs on a whim, only to discover that the dog needs more exercise than the person can provide. I’ve also had friends adopt dogs with severe separation anxiety (even though that person worked all day), only to have to rehome the dog later.

It’s not that these people didn’t have good intentions. They simply didn’t take the time to research the breed. As a result, they wound up with under-exercised dogs full of anxiety issues and behavioural problems.

Let’s Dig Deep and Do Some Soul-Searching

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a new pet, and it’s important to do a little soul-searching to ensure you find the right match. There’s so much to think about before bringing a dog home!

There are no “right’ or “wrong” answers to the following questions. I’ve designed them as a way to open your mind to dog ownership in ways that might not have occurred to you before.

Remember, at the end of the day, all anybody wants is a happy and healthy dog. The best way to do that is to make sure you’re ready for the responsibility, no matter the breed.

#1: Are You Willing to Take the Dog Out Early in the Morning or Late at Night?

This is an important consideration if you live in an apartment or condo. Unless you can train your dog to go on a pee pad on the balcony, you’ll have to bring your dog outside.

Depending on your geographic location, that can mean taking your dog outside on cold nights with slippery sidewalks.

#2: Do You Have Other Pets?

It’s important to consider the comfort of your current pets before bringing a new dog into your home. They may need to be introduced gradually.

#3: Are You Allowed to Have Pets in Your Residence?

Not all apartment buildings or condominiums allow dogs. If they do, they may have a size or breed restriction. If you own your home, you can do what you like!

#4: Are You an Experienced Dog Owner?

Some dogs are much harder to train than others. Look for breeds that are easy to train unless you’re confident in your skills.

#5: Do You Have Someone Who Can Take Your Dog in Case Anything Happens to You?

It’s important to have a plan for any eventuality. If you buy a purebred dog, there could be a clause in the contract that says the dog must go back to the breeder if you can no longer care for it.

#6: Are You Prepared for Unexpected Vet Bills and Pet Expenses?

Dogs are expensive, even without unexpected vet bills. Toys, crates, food, pet insurance, doggy daycare, deworming, tick medications, and grooming are just a handful of expenses you’ll encounter.

#7: How Do You Feel About Fur All Over Your House (and Clothes, and Furniture)?

If you have allergies or a strong aversion to a house full of dog fur, consider a hypoallergenic dog breed. Otherwise, let the fur fly and have fun!

#8: Can You Provide the Exercise and Mental Stimulation a Dog Needs?

Most dogs need a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise a day. Toy breeds need much less, and high-energy breeds (like my 14-pound Parson Russell Terrier) have higher demands.

#9: Do You Know the Difference Between a Working Dog, a Sporting Dog, a Herding Dog, Terriers, and Other Categories?

I only mention this because a dog will do what it was bred for.

For example, if you bring home a working dog but fail to give it meaningful play, mental stimulation, and daily exercise, there’s a good chance the dog will tear up your house and yard.

Are You Ready for the Commitment?

Dogs are amazing creatures with unique needs. They just want to love and be loved. Of course, love isn’t enough. Bringing a dog into your life is a lifelong promise to provide consistent care, attention, exercise, training, and medical support.

It means accepting the good days with the challenging ones, from puppyhood through their senior years.

Are you ready?

If you’re also a plant lover, why not check out Lisa’s Substack blog on How to Propagate Zig Zag Cactus in 5 Easy Steps from Stem Cuttings.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How many pets do you currently care for? Have you had dogs? How did you choose what breed to get? Did you choice turn out well?