How BIG is your home? Your first consideration must be the size of the dog (when fully grown) in relation to the size of your home. Also think about how and where you will walk to exercise your dog.
What can you afford? Large dogs are considerably more expensive than a small one.
Do you have children in your family? Consider getting a breed that is good with children – Labrador, Boxer, Terrier come to mind.
Are you alone and need a loyal companion? – Boxer, Terrier, Dachshund, Spaniel, Collie, Corgi and Pug to name a few.
Are you looking for a Guard Dog? – Bull Mastiff, Dalmatian, Doberman, German Shepherd, Great Dane and Rottweiler are popular guard breeds.
Do you want a dog good for serious training? – Border Collie, Australian Cattle dog, Dobermann, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador, Schnauzer are good picks.
Don't overlook mixed breeds – some of the best dogs are in this range…and do cost less to buy.
How much time do you have ? – be careful not to take on a strong, potentially fierce dog that will need firm handling and careful training, if you already have a busy committed life.
So What are the Costs of Having a Dog?
Initial Outlay – Bed, Indoor or Out door Kennel, Food Bowls, Collar, Harness and Lead, Toys – for chewing, fetching and so on.
Food – more dog…more food!
Neutering…more costly for females than males.
Immunisation and Boosters – essential that these are kept up to date.
Veterinary Bills – Illness or accident.
Professional clipping and grooming – essential in certain breeds.
Training classes – really recommended.
Securing the property…fencing (if not already in place)
Replacing any damaged (probably chewed) items…eg Dad's new slippers!
So all considered, taking on a new puppy should not be taken lightly – but with some thought and planning, a new puppy will be a joy to you and your family. Have fun – enjoy the experience!
Nancy Lavender
http://www.your-dogs.com
I have a passion for animals and the countryside and all it offers. I feel a responsibility for the preservation of what we have in our world for the generations to come.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Lavender
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