Are you considering getting a furry friend? Dogs are not only loving companions, but they can also provide you with a sense of purpose and responsibility. However, choosing the right dog breed for yourself can be a daunting task and it can be hard to know where to begin. There are hundreds of different breeds to choose from, each with its unique characteristics and requirements. Let’s take a look at the different dog breed groups, their characteristics, and how to choose the right breed for your lifestyle.
Understanding Dog Breed Groups
The first step in choosing the right dog breed is to understand the different breed groups. In Australia, there are seven main pure breed groups recognized by Dogs AU:
- Toys - Small breeds that are often kept as companion dogs due to their size and affectionate nature.
- Terriers - Energetic and tenacious breeds initially bred for hunting and vermin control.
- Gundogs - Athletic breeds originally bred for hunting and retrieving games.
- Hounds - Breeds known for their exceptional sense of smell and hunting abilities.
- Working Dogs - Large and powerful breeds originally bred for various types of work, such as herding, guarding, and pulling.
- Utility Dogs - Breeds that don't fit into any of the other groups, often with unique or specialised skills.
- Non-Sporting Dogs - Breeds with diverse backgrounds and characteristics, often kept as companion dogs due to their unique looks and personalities
Each breed group has different characteristics, such as temperament, size, and energy levels. Understanding these breed groups will help you narrow down your options and find the right breed for you.
Analysing Your Lifestyle
Before you start searching for a dog breed, analysing your lifestyle is an important step in choosing the right dog breed for yourself. Here are some factors to consider:
Daily Routine
Consider your daily schedule and consider how much time you can realistically devote to your dog. Some breeds require more exercise and attention than others, so it's important to choose a breed that matches your lifestyle. For example, if you have a busy schedule and limited time for walks and playtime, a relaxed-energy breed like a Basset Hound may be a better fit than a high-energy breed like a Border Collie.
Space Availability
Consider the amount of space you have available for your dog. If you live in a small apartment or unit, you may want to choose a smaller breed like the Toy Poodle that doesn't require as much room to move around. However, if you have a large yard or property, a larger breed like the Weimaraner can run and play outside could work well for you and your family.
Activity Level
Reflect on your activity level and choose a breed that matches it. If you're an active person who enjoys hiking and running, you may want to choose a breed that can keep up with you, such as a Labrador Retriever. On the other hand, if you prefer more laid-back activities, like reading or watching TV, a relaxed-energy breed like a British Bulldog may be a better fit.
Pet-friendly: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Family Needs
The needs of your family are of utmost importance too, spend some time researching a breed that is suitable for all members. Breeds such as Golden Retrievers can be wonderful for families with smaller children due to their gentle and patient nature Those that have other pets at home, may want to choose a breed that is known for being good with other animals, such as a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel but avoid those breeds with a strong prey drive such as Dachshunds or Terrier breeds.
Training Requirements
Some breeds are easier to train than others. a first-time dog owner or someone without a lot of experience with training may want to choose a breed that is known for being easy to train, such as a Poodle. However, if you enjoy the challenge of training and have experience with dogs, you may want to choose a breed that is more independent and requires more effort, such as a Siberian Husky. Many breeds require many weeks, months or even years of consistent training before they see you as the “leader of the pack”, by having in-depth conversations with a range of breeders, you’ll know more about their specific training requirements.
Choosing the Right Breed
Once you have a good understanding of dog breed groups and have analysed your lifestyle, it's time to start looking for the right breed. Here are some tips to help you choose the right dog breed:
Research breeds
To find the perfect dog breed for your lifestyle, it's important to conduct thorough due diligence. Use online resources to gather information about different breeds. Search for breeds that have traits and characteristics that align with your lifestyle, such as energy level, size, and grooming requirements.
Find the right breeder for you on Dogz Online
Contact breeders
Finding a reputable breeder is crucial when looking for a purebred dog. A reputable breeder will provide you with valuable information about the breed's history, temperament, and health. When searching for a breeder, look for a Dogs AU registered breeder via Dogz Online since we verify their registrations, giving you peace of mind that you’re dealing with a legitimate source. You can also ask for referrals from friends or family members who own the breed you're interested in
Visit a Dog Show
Attending a dog show is an excellent way to see different breeds up close and in person. You can observe how the dogs behave and interact with people, and you can also talk to breeders and owners to gather more information about the breed. This can be a great way to get hands-on experience and ask any questions. There are many types of dog shows across Australia throughout the year, breed-specific ones and also ones that focus on a group type of dog. Even places like Royal Agricultural Shows are excellent places to see a large range of dog breeds in one place.
Connect with reputable breeders on Dogz Online here and start the search for your ideal furry companion today.
