The following is a guest post from our friends at FIDO Friendly
By Carol Bryant
Finding Fido one step at a time: Find your new BFF
You’re reading this article right now because you generally have an interest in dogs and you:
A. have a dog
B. had a dog
C. want a dog
C is for come and get it, as FIDO Friendly helps you decide just which dog is right for you! Like any intimate relationship, there has to be chemistry, that initial spark, the one that answers “what’s missing from my life” then fills that void with a wagging tail and loving spirit. That “something” is spelled F-I-D-O.
Start by not thinking dog and instead, assessing your lifestyle. Are you more the active or sedentary type? Are you financially able to support another living being? Do you spend a lot of time at work, school, and/or involved in other activities? If you’ve given yourself the go ahead, the next step is a lot of fun.
In general, it takes about 4-6 weeks for a dog to acclimate to a new home; for puppies, of course, that process is much longer. Do you want to start with a new kid on the block, a mature adult, or a super senior?
Does size matter? Are you more the pocket pooch, perky mid size, or big breed type? Once you’ve narrowed it down to the age and the size, the decision of pure bred or pure mutt and where to get your new BFF (best furry friend) enters the picture.
There are millions of dogs in shelters who need a good home, which could by the way, mean yours. Some shelters even have visitation rooms or “real life rooms” where you can observe different dogs in true-to-life situations. Staff and volunteers interact with the dog, watch tv, have a meal, nap, and engage them in reality. A better chance of adoption and finding your match might happen this way.
The ASPCA has a new system called Meet Your Match (MYM) that matches owner personality colors with dog personality colors. Potential adopters are asked a series of questions to assess lifestyle and preference and are given a purple, orange or green pass upon completion. When walking through the shelter, one can look for dogs that match their color. Colors vary between go getters, busy bees and couch potatoes.
For those whose hearts are set on a specific breed, do your homework. Find out the “beneath the fur” facts about your potential Fido. All breeds are predisposed to health concerns; are you ready to deal with them if necessary? Will you go through a breeder or rescue group? If you insist on a breeder, ask around, do the research, and be sure to know the breeder’s background. Anyone can claim to be a “top notch” dog breeder. If they won’t let you visit or are hesitant to answer questions, run far away.
If you have no idea what breed you want, think like the dog. Are you active and want to share that physical lifestyle with Fido? A Weimaraner, Irish Setter, or border collie might fill that need. High-energy breeds that aren’t stimulated and exercised regularly can and will become bored, depressed and even destructive.
On the other end of the spectrum, a basset hound, even with his sullen smirk and slower gait, needs exercise. Jogging, however, wouldn’t be in this breed’s best interest. Breeds such as Akitas and Airedale Terriers would make good walking companions as would a Yorkie or Pomeranian, but with shorter strides. Never make a dog do something against their will. Not all dogs like to swim, jog, nor sit around all day with nothing to do but stare at the couch.
Three issues most dogs will bring with them when first entering your life are: housebreaking, behavioral and getting used to their new world. When first bringing Fido home, take a few days to a week off work. Establish a routine, be around the dog and start the bonding process. They are getting to know you as much as you are them. Relationships are indeed a two-way street.
There are many online assessments available to gear you with breeds that suit your personality and lifestyle. Try Googling “what breed is right for me” for a host of quizzes and questions.
Regardless of the age or pedigree, all dogs need some form of exercise best suited to them. They all need love, care and attention, vet care and maintenance. If you are anti-slobber, avoid the dogs with larger jowls. Does snoring bother you? Best avoid a pug or Boston terrier. And the good ole American mutt can be identified these days, too, thanks to DNA testing. A simple sample from the dog’s inner facial cheek and 6-8 weeks later, breed identification delivered to your mailbox.
If your life is ready to accept the responsibility and years of love, fun and zest a dog will bring to it, go forth and seek the furry friend of your dreams. Be realistic in your expectations and goals, but most of all remember your dog’s life and well-being depend on you.
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