When looking to buy a dog, it is important to understand the traditional characteristics of the breed of your possible new dog. For example, is your new breed prone to illness, and are you willing to keep up on dog medications? How is your breed around children? Is she prone to running away? The answers to these questions can prove vitally important while making sure you have the right pooch.
Breeds Prone to Illness
There are many dog breeds that are prone to many different types of illnesses. Take eye problems, for example. Collies, Retrievers and Spaniels all commonly have eye troubles. It’s important to see how different breeds compare in eye problems. And that, of course, is just one type of illness. According to the Morris Animal Foundation, Golden Retrievers are very prone to cancer (60% die of it). As with eye troubles, certain breeds are susceptible to different cancers. These things can cost a lot in dog medications, so it’s good to know how much you should be prepared to spend to keep your breed healthy.
Breeds Good for Children
Certain dog breeds have more temperamental and/or violent tendencies than others–see: Poodles, Pit Bulls–while some tend to be more loyal and nurturing–see: Retrievers, Collies. It’s important to know what kind of temperament the breed you are considering usually has when choosing a family dog. There are lists of the best dogs for children, and these tend to be pretty good. Normally, you want dogs known for loyalty and patience. The Golden Retriever–America’s favorite dog–is one of the best dogs there is for children. The Collie is another great one. In the end, though, all dogs (even those with certain tendencies) are different. Best thing to do is take your children around the new dog you are considering and see how they interact.
Breeds Prone to Running Away
High-energy dogs are always the ones most prone to running away, especially if they are left alone all day. Dogs, especially intelligent dogs, can be a lot like people: they get bored and want something better. Hunting dogs are very prone to running as they evolved from a life of wandering to find their prey. It’s important to know what kind of dog you are getting in these senses. Is your dog from one of the smartest breeds? Did she evolve from a breed who is used to wandering? How much time will you be able to devote to your dog? The less time you can be there, the less intelligent you want your breed to be. Smart dogs will find ways to entertain themselves, which can have disastrous results for your things or can be prone to running away. Remember, though, no matter what your dog’s tendencies, it’s good to implant a microchip in your pet to find her if she does run away.
Categories: Dogs, Pet Pharmacy
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