Which dog
fits on your sofa?
The decision to take a dog into their life is surprisingly easy for many people, because the advantages of the coexistence of humans and dogs are undisputed.
However, making the right choice and finding a dog that simply “fits” should be well planned and considered.
Here are some key questions to ask yourself before adopting a dog that may not suit you and your lifestyle.
The size
How tall should your future companion be?
In this case, however, do not confuse the size of the dog with its temperament. There are some large breeds with a moderate temperament that are perfectly suited to an apartment and other small breeds that without consistent activity, a lot of time and energy and possibly a large yard are absolutely capable of turning your idea of a harmonious life with a dog totally upside down.
So this is actually about the physical size of the animal. If you live in a tiny apartment or travel a lot with your Mini Cooper, you probably don’t want to live with a Great Dane or Mastin.
The age
What age should your dog be when it joins your family?
Sometimes it can be very hard to decide against a cute puppy to be very difficult. However, the effort involved in accompanying a puppy through its first year should not be underestimated.
Be honest with yourself and make sure you and your family are able to devote the time and energy to train and care for a young dog.
If there is even the slightest doubt, it is worth looking for a young adult dog, or even an older and already trained dog.
The hairstyle
Do you prefer the easy-care short hair version or rather long curls?
Coat care should also be considered in your considerations. And not just because of the regular daily or weekly grooming or your dog’s general appearance, but also because you should ask yourself how much unavoidable dirt you are willing to tolerate in your home.
After a long rainy winter walk on muddy country lanes, you can easily see how much fun your long-haired dog had on the walk đ
The job
Have you already thought about what job your future dog should have in your life?
Are you looking for a reliable guardian for house and yard, a companion for sport, activities and adventure or an adaptable, easy-going companion and family dog?
Just by asking this crucial question, some dog personalities already fall out of the concept – while others step even more into the spotlight.
Young adult and older shelter dogs that are already showing their full temperament are often a good choice here, whereas very young puppies may bring a great potential of surprise with them.
Active or leisurely
Top athlete or couch potato?
The temperament and activity requirements of your new dog are decisive factors for your future life together.
If you are a person who likes to take it easy, any type of working dog, such as the Border Collie or a Jack Russel, is certainly a rather unfavorable choice for you and problems on both sides of the leash are inevitable.
In this case, there are plenty of dogs who can enjoy life to the fullest with two relaxed, long walks, a few toilet breaks and a cozy place on the sofa. In this case, you should also rather choose an adult dog.
However, if you are the adventurous and tireless type of person with a lot of time, a active, energetic dog by your side will be a happy and loyal companion on your tours.
Your Lifestyle
Of course, the question of your social lifestyle and your working hours outside the home should not be ignored.
Are you single and solely responsible for the well-being of your dog or do you live in a family where other people also take care of the dog’s care and activities?
Can you possibly take your dog to work with you? Are there children in the household or in the circle of friends and family, or are own children a possibility in the near future? Do other animals already live in your four walls? Are you a very social person who would like to take your dog with you to the café or to meetings with friends?
Think about the fact that the people in your life also need to get along with your new companion.
The training
Have you already successfully trained a dog, or are you ready to acquire the necessary knowledge?
Because there is a lot to learn! Even if you’ve had a dog before, be aware that every dog – even dogs of the same type – has its own personality. This is not about breed-typical characteristics, but about the dogs individual character and temperament.
Are you willing to visit a dog school, read about dog behavior and training, or attend seminars and tackle any problems that may arise instead of giving up?
If so, nothing should stand in the way of a harmonious life with your new dog.
The second dog
Are you already a dog owner and thinking about a second dog?
Then definitely let your dog have a say in who can share the coveted place at your side – or on the sofa – with him in the future.
Make sure your dog isn’t overwhelmed with the new addition to the family. If you have an older dog that has now entered the quieter phase of life, a puppy could be a challenge.
Or do you still have problems with your dogs behavior or education? This process should be completed positively before you embark on a new adventure.
Be aware that even if both dogs get along well at first, things can change over time.
Are you ready to tackle this potentially challenging time with your two dogs without blaming your new second dog for the stress that is arising, or even giving up?
However, once you have made the right choice and the initial adjustment phase is over, a second dog can be an extreme enrichment in your life and especially in the life of your beloved first dog!
Whatever happens – the full responsibility is in your hands!
If you are clear about all these questions and facts, the right choice of your new life companion should not be too difficult.
Animal shelter employees usually know their protégés very well from dealing with the dogs on a daily basis and can certainly support you in your search for your perfect companion.
Before you finally decide to get a dog, take the opportunity to get to know the dog, take it for walks and spend time with it to avoid unnecessary disappointments for you and the dog.
The decision to give a shelter dog a new life comes with big responsibility, but it is also one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and one of these dogs who is just waiting for you.
