Dog Traits


	If you have not lived with or been around dogs, you will want to reading about dogs before continuing on. You can review the below for traits and characteristics you want in a diog. Purebred or Mixed? This is a personal preference. The size, characteristics, and temperament of pure bred dogs are known based on the standard for the breed. There are many variations from the standard in a litter of pups. Mixed breeds are thought to be healthier getting the best of the breeds in one. However, you may not know all the breeds that make up your dog and how well those different temperaments and characteristics will mesh together. Basically, there is no guarantee. So make a personal choice or leave your options open! Even if you want a mixed breed, you may want to refer the characteristics of the different breeds to identify the mixed breed you would like to have in your dog. If you are looking for a pure bred, click here to look over the lists to help you narrow down your dog breed selections. Male or Female In choosing the sex of a dog, try to maintain some flexibility. In our experience, individual personality traits have more to do with trainability than does sex. Whichever you chose, I strongly encourage you to neuter or spay your pet. It will be happier, healthier, and easier to live with whether a male or female. Males have gotten am especially bad reputation, so I have created a special page to discuss these concerns, Why Not A Boy? How big? Size is a physical and a personal choice. If you live in an apartment a smaller dog may fit in the area better than a big dog. Also, look at the future to determine how big of a dog as well. You may be able to handle a 80 pound dog now, but what about 10 plus years from now? If you have a small toddler, you may want to get a smaller dog that won't roll over the toddler as he grows and matures. Other Physical Traits to consider Grooming and coat are important considerations. Some dogs require regular professional grooming to stay healthy and comfortable. Some dogs shed a lot, which could cause an immaculate housekeeper lots of frustration. If you enjoy grooming, consider a breed that requires more maintenance. Remember, it's ten to fourteen years of maintenance. Some dogs require special care for ears, eyes, skin, or paws. Research the maintenance requirements for each breed you are considering. Good grooming is essential for good health. Puppy or Adult? Do not fall for the old myth that only a puppy will bond with your family. Adult dogs are equally capable of developing a bond of loving and trust, often faster than a puppy. Puppies go through various stages, not all of which are fun. In exchange for that wriggling, cute bundle of love, you will go through house training, chewing, nipping, and very high energy levels. House training can be an issue through six months for some puppies. Chewing comes and goes throughout the first eighteen months. Most dogs do not achieve adult mature behaviors until two to three years of age. On the other hand, you will know precisely what experiences and health history your dog has had and you can avoid some of the surprises that may accompany an adult dog. Adopting an adult means that previous training and experiences may be forever unknown. Some behaviors may defy explanation. You could have unanswered health questions. However, you do know exactly what you are getting in terms of size, coat, and, to some degree, temperament. It can take as long as three months before an adult dog completely settles in to a new environment and displays predictable behavior. You will have no puppy problems, which makes life easier, especially if you have small children. In general, older dogs have more patience and tolerance and accept training more quickly.