Choosing the right dog

Choosing a dog is exciting. It’s emotional. And if we’re honest, most people fall in love with a look before they ever think about the lifestyle that comes with it.

But the reality is this: the right dog isn’t about what you like, it’s about what you can live with every single day.

Start with your lifestyle, not the breed

Before even looking at breeds, it’s important to look at your own lifestyle.

• How many hours will the dog be left alone?

• Do you genuinely enjoy long walks, or do you just like the idea of them?

• Are you active, or more home-based?

• Do you want a dog that relaxes easily, or one that needs constant engagement?

There is no right or wrong answer, but there is a right match.

Energy levels matter more than appearance. A working cocker spaniel might look small and cute, but it has been bred to work all day without tiring. A collie is highly intelligent, but that intelligence needs an outlet or it can turn into frustration. On the other hand, some breeds may be less physically demanding but come with other considerations such as health issues.

I often come across dogs whose needs simply aren’t being met. For example, gun dogs that only get proper exercise once a week, spending the rest of their time at home without enough physical or mental stimulation. Over time, this often leads to frustration-related behaviours.

I also see smaller breeds that were originally bred to work (for example Dachshund, Jack Russel Terrier, Border Terrier), but are treated more like babies or accessories. While they may not look like “working dogs”, they still have needs, and when those needs are overlooked it can lead to behavioural issues just as much as with larger, more active breeds.

The question isn’t whether a dog is nice. It’s whether you can meet its needs consistently.

Temperament over trend

Temperament is also more important than trends. Social media has made certain breeds incredibly popular, but what you don’t always see are the behavioural challenges that can come with them, such as

• Reactivity

• Separation anxiety, or dependance

• High mental stimulation needs.

Cockapoos are a good example of this. They are often chosen because they look extremely cute, especially as puppies, almost like soft toys. But in reality, they are a mix of two very demanding breeds. Both spaniels and poodles are intelligent, active, and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Without that, they can become easily frustrated and develop behavioural issues.

The dog you choose will live with you for years, so it’s important to choose based on temperament rather than popularity.

Puppies vs adult dogs

Puppies are often seen as a blank canvas, but that isn’t entirely true. They come with early experiences that shape them long before they arrive in your home. How they were handled, their early socialisation, their environment, and even their genetics all play a role in how they respond to the world.Puppies are also time intensive, exhausting, and constantly learning while testing boundaries.

An adult dog can often be a better fit for many homes, especially if you want a clearer idea of personality, energy levels, and behaviour. However, it’s important to be realistic. Some adult dogs, particularly those coming from rescue, may come with more complex or intense behavioural challenges.

This isn’t to put you off, but to help you make an informed decision. With the right support, many of these dogs thrive, but it’s important to consider whether you have the time, patience, and lifestyle to meet those needs.

Financial implications

There are also financial implications to consider. The initial cost of getting a dog is only the beginning. Ongoing costs include food, insurance, routine veterinary care, and unexpected medical expenses. Some dogs may also require training or behavioural support, and certain breeds will need regular grooming. These costs can add up over time, so it’s important to be prepared for that long-term commitment.

Conclusion

Choosing a dog isn’t just about what you want right now. It’s about what you can provide for the lifetime of that dog.

There is no perfect dog, only the dog that fits your life. And when that match is right, everything becomes easier, from training to behaviour to the relationship you build together.

If you’re unsure what type of dog would suit your lifestyle, I offer one-to-one consultations to help you make the right choice from the start. Click here