Puppy's Life

Choosing your furry friend

Choosing your furry friend

Picking out a puppy is just like choosing your best friend: No matter how cute she is, make sure you are right for each other. You and your pup will be spending a lot of time together, so your lifestyle, personality, and needs should be similar. Consider the following points to find your ideal canine companion.

First, determine your activity level. If you're athletic and on-the-go, you'll want a dog that can keep up with you. Bob Warren, director of development at the Colorado Humane Society shelter in Englewood, says to look for a long-legged breed, such as a Labrador Retriever, Border Collie or German Shorthaired Pointer.

Second, do you have a large home or a small space? You may need to consider a smaller dog that doesn't require as much room, such as a Pomeranian or Toy Poodle.

Next, consider your climate. Do you live in a cold area? Warren suggests a Nordic or alpine breed with a thick coat, such as a Siberian Husky. Short-haired dogs fare much better in hotter temperatures, but they are fine in cold weather if they have a dog-coat and boots and do not stay outside for a long time.

Who will interact with your dog? If you have children, Warren suggests Collies, Labrador Retrievers, or Golden Retrievers, which generally make great family dogs. Also, decide whether you want a male or female dog, as different genders often display unique personality traits. Warren points out females are very nurturing and tend to integrate into a family well.

Learn the basics of grooming. A long-haired breed such as a Maltese, Shih-Tzu, or Old English Sheepdog will need daily brushing and regular trimming, which allows plenty of bonding moments. Short-haired breeds usually don't require the same upkeep as their long-haired counterparts, but they often shed.

Finally, consider age. Remember, as Warren points out, smaller breeds often live longer than larger ones. It's important to honestly evaluate how long of a commitment you are willing to make. “A Miniature Schnauzer might live for 18 years, and you need to plan accordingly,” he says.

And, time is important too. Dog ownership requires a lot of responsibility and commitment and puppies in particular require a lot of patience and extra care, but the joy you get from this relationship is one of life's greatest rewards.

Simply taking the time to examine your lifestyle and needs will help you find a puppy with whom you can enjoy a happy, healthy, harmonious life.