Powered by Blogger.

Friday, 24 August 2012

4 Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets

By Raul Nordstrom


Buying a dog as a pet quickly becomes complicated when the prospective owner realizes how many dog breeds are available. Whether choosing a puppy from the local dog shelter, buying at a pet store, or consulting with a breeder, it is best to do some homework in order to have at least a general idea of the best breed for the particular household. It usually depends on the living space available for the dog, the number and ages of members of the household, and the purpose for acquiring a dog as a pet.

German Shepherd- Even though the German Shepherd is known as the world's leading guard dog, it can also a playful, loving family pet if well trained and socialized. It has a large, muscular body, but can move quickly and needs regular exercise opportunities outdoors. If the German Shepherd becomes bored, it can become destructive and aggressive. It is not a good dog to have if the family has other pets. Because the German Shepherd's coat sheds heavily, it does require daily grooming to remain sleek and healthy looking.

Beagle- Beagles are the ultimate in the concept of a friendly puppy dog. This breed is under 16" tall with a compact body, so is easy to have around small children and in an apartment. It is a lively, active dog, and often seen as mischievous and sometimes destructive if it does not receive enough attention and exercise. Of course, this playfulness is a great attraction for most children. These days, the popularity of the Beagle is mostly as a family pet, instead of the rabbit hunter it was bred to be in the 1500s.

Basset Hound- The friendly Basset Hound usually has a sweet disposition that makes it an excellent family pet or companion to a single person. However, it was originally bred to track small game. This means it is always ready to follow scents when on a walk so a leash is necessary at all times. The Basset Hound is a gentle dog that is very trainable alone or in hunting packs. Although it has a heavy body with short legs and long ears, it grows no more than 14" tall at the shoulders so is adaptable to a smaller living space. Be prepared to deal with drooling, snoring, and occasional stubbornness.

Samoyed- One of the oldest domesticated dog breeds, the Samoyed was originally trained as a pack dog for northern people. These days, it is a breed often seen as a family pet. It is quick-witted and playful with its mischievous curiosity delighting children of all ages. The Samoyed will often develop an annoying, yapping bark for attention and can be destructive if left alone. The breed's white beauty and trainability make it a top contender in the show ring. A Samoyed's doubt coat requires extensive grooming as it sheds continually.

Please take your time and research the breeds you are interested in. Finding the dog that fits your needs and lifestyle can lead to a match made in heaven. However, selecting a dog that requires the resources that you can't provide can result in a short lived relationship. No one wants to return a puppy right after getting it and the puppy doesn't want that either.




About the Author:



0 comments:

  © Blogger templates The Professional Template by Ourblogtemplates.com 2008

Back to TOP